their authenticity and warmth, right across the 1000 square meter footprint. Wood is
prevalent in the interior scheme both as a material and a signature element, and all the
more notable because it is all sustainable timber. Inhouse carefully repurposed onceused timber from a demolition yard, cleaned it up, stripped it down to its natural form
and then installed it in the space. The entire ceiling, a feature in itself, is constructed
from such timber.
Similarly, the feature wall in the reception area is made up of off-cuts of this same
reclaimed timber. Elsewhere, vertical timber slats act as screens shielding glass
fronted meeting rooms. These oak slats balance the need for privacy while also
allowing a modicum of transparency. There’s also the view to consider: 80% of the
office floor faces the sea.
Because the client required a more traditional office layout from a space-planning
perspective, Inhouse added contemporary edginess and distinguishing factors such
as custom designs. The boardroom table, for example, is a masterpiece of high-gloss,
French lacquer on oak, with a black steel inlay and a black glass top.
Inhouse designed the office furniture including all the desking systems to reflect
a contemporary style that favours comfort. “In the light of the client’s wishes, we
opted for a low-key profile. We wanted the space to be subtly impressive, but highly
functional!” says Inhouse Creative Director Aidan Hart.
Thanks to the use of a more somber colour palette – evident in details like the dark
carpeting and ebony feature wall - the space gains instant gravitas. It has a neutral
somewhat masculine feeling. The adjoining foundation has a slight differentiation in
terms of colour, and has received a lighter treatment through the use of light greys.
This gives the foundation a softer, more feminine aspect.
The interiors were finished off with pieces from the company’s art collection, hung
so that the artworks enhance the interior scheme. With the client having invested in
quality with the hope of future benefits, the timeless appeal and subtle power of its
new office space undoubtedly brings such rewards. AD
About Inhouse Brand Architects
Inhouse is a leading and comprehensive South African agency specializing in
turnkey solutions for all sectors of design, with specialised expertise in interior
design and brand architecture. With offices in Cape Town, Johannesburg and
London, Inhouse concentrates on innovative and appropriate ideas in response to
the diverse needs of its clients.
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