Cost Certified, a dynamic tech company, sought an office environment that reflected their innovative spirit and allowed for future growth. The primary objectives were to integrate the company’s energetic vibe with the building's historic charm and create a flexible, adaptable workspace. This space needed to support collaboration, cater to various working styles, and enhance employee well-being while respecting the heritage of the building.
Merging History with Modern Office Design
The Cost Certified project involved creating three floors of office space for a vibrant tech company within the historic Refinery Building on Kloof Street, Cape Town. Covering a total area of 2000m², this project presented the challenge of blending the youthful energy of Cost Certified with the heritage elements of the former school hostel. Trend Group's role encompassed the design and fitout, completed within a stringent timeline, showcasing the team's expertise in transforming spaces while preserving historical integrity.
Designing for Integration and Preservation
The design process was driven by two main concepts: integration and preservation. Given the building's heritage status, it was essential to retain its structural and historical elements. Existing floor finishes were carefully sealed to highlight their original character, while interior walls were sandblasted to a height of 1.5 meters to expose the original brickwork. The ceilings were largely preserved, maintaining the building's historical essence. Modern office necessities, such as LED lighting and air-conditioning ducts, were added as exposed services, serving as both functional elements and architectural accents. Curtains installed in front of the high windows provided both acoustic and visual softness.
Creating Spaces of Excitement
Integrating business requirements involved creating distinct areas across the three floors. The ground floor's office spaces open onto terraces, merging indoor co-working areas with the outdoor environment. These terraces, with their vibrant café-like atmosphere, encourage public interaction and reflect the company's energetic spirit. This level includes open plan co-working spaces, collaboration zones, breakaway areas, meeting rooms, work lounges, and informal games rooms.
Contemporary Courtyard
The first floor offers a more intimate and tranquil setting, centred around an internal courtyard. This courtyard, featuring low seating around a fire pit, Astro turf, hanging greenery, and a tree with a seating mound, provides a serene focal point. Collaboration booths and workstations surround the courtyard, designed for quiet, focused work. The office spaces on this floor are slightly more subdued, fostering an environment conducive to concentration.
Successful Transformation and Client Benefits
The project met all of Cost Certified's objectives, providing a vibrant, engaging environment that supports various working styles and promotes employee well-being. The design's flexibility ensures that the office can adapt to future needs, making it a long-term asset for the company. Quality assurance measures throughout the project ensured that the highest standards were maintained, delivering a workspace that is both functional and inspiring.
