African Design Magazine August 2015 | Page 48

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. 48 africandesignmagazine.com