Following Inhouse Brand Architects’successful design and installationofOld Mutual Investment Group’s head office in 2010, as well as itsSpecialised Finance Branch in 2013, this leading interior design firmwasthe clear choice to re-imagine the interior design of the premises occupied by Old Mutual Alternative Investments.
Because Old Mutual was already familiar with Inhouse’s expertise in conceptualisation and implementation, the renowned insurance company gave the Inhousedesignteam free-rein when it came to the interior fitout. Inhouse’s Creative Director, Aidan Hart, and Associate Director, MoiishaVisagie, who led the project, decided on a scheme that would bring a welcoming sense of warmth to the area.
The aim was to create aspace that was true to the Old Mutual Alternative Investments brand- one of the largest alternative investment managers in Africa. Inhousealsowanted to integrate a ‘human’ element into the design. This was achieved through introducing quality natural materials such as timber - specifically harlequin and stained oak - and leather as well as selecting a colour palette of earthy tones.
The reception area is the first point of contact where visiting guestscan immediately appreciate this stylish sense of warmth. A strikingreception backdrop, crafted from timber and shaped into fins, serves as an eye-catching design element. The waiting area features comfortable leather seating, wooden furniture, and indoorplanting, which reinforce the natural aesthetic.
The same design concept flows through to other sections of the office. The traditional, corporate look-and-feel of the boardrooms was softenedthrough the installationof wooden wall paneling and curtains. In the meeting rooms, these same features were repeatedalong with timber fins and splashes of green, adding an organic emphasis to these spaces.
The kitchen, or café area, received an equally organic makeover. Green walls are prominent in the design. Pendant lights that arecrafted from timber hang over the countertops. Plants are again introduced to signify an undeniable earthy atmosphere.
Overall, the design schemeemphasizes quality and implements natural touches throughout, creating a space that cohesively represents the brand in a sophisticated and contemporary manner.With yet another successful design for the Old Mutual Group, Inhouse continues to impress as the interior design firm of choice for South Africa’s leadinginvestment firm.
