WORDS: STAFF REPORTER AND SUPPLIED :: PHOTOS: JOHANN LOURENS
A design company transforms their client’s offices in a record time into a fun and friendly space to work
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the effectiveness of the hybrid work model, leading to the implementation of booths and pods in offices to facilitate virtual meetings. This is according to Western Cape director of the Trend Group Lloyd Stocks, who says these facilities are no longer a trend but a necessity.
Trend Group is an interior design and refurbishment specialist company who just completed a 1,900m² design-and-build fitout for the partnership management platform Impact at Century City in Cape Town. They finished the project in a record eight weeks.
REFLECTING THE COMPANY CULTURE
Impact’s brief included an unconventional, fun and quirky design approach. “And, it turned out to be very successful,” says Stocks. “Impact’s new home is bold, playful, and completely reflective of its brand and culture. We combined a clean, industrial structure with art, colour and unusual creative elements to bring the space to life.” The Trend team worked closely with the client to understand the company’s culture as well as learn about the elements that would appeal to their staff. The design concept is based on Impact’s circular logo, which is pulled through in various ways from the round entrance doorway to reception, a think tank ball pit, bleacher seats, acoustic panels and furniture.
LET THE LIGHT INSIDE
Stocks says the design motif came about after they understood how the staff interacted and operated. “They often huddle in teams and collaborate as groups in a ‘circle’,” says Stocks. “We used this motif throughout the space to create soft and interesting lines. Their office space has a full view of Table Mountain, so we further used the circular motif by creating a tunnel leading from the waiting area into the offices, which guides your eye to the magnificent view.”
Most of the office area features glass storefronts. Open-plan desks are placed here, allowing occupants to enjoy a better user experience with ample natural light and scenic views. “We also incorporated a lot of greenery in strategic areas to separate zones and soften areas,” says Stocks.
THE HEART OF THE MATTER
A large open kitchen area became the heart of the office donning a fun modern colour palette with greenery and entertainment facilities. This space encourages team gatherings and aims to foster a culture of a shared thriving work environment. Employees can utilise the space to hot desk, collaborate and enjoy lunches. Stocks says the Western Cape is experiencing an influx of people semigrants which has seen businesses letting more space and others opening up new offices. This has led to a number of businesses letting more space and others opening up new offices.
