Reception Modernised
Sector
Commercial
Location
Midrand, South Africa
Type
​Commercial - turnkey project design and project management
SQM
200 sqm
Goal achieved
Power of design to mobilize connection and belonging by embodying the purpose, culture and values of the company.
This project was guided by the belief that workplaces should actively support wellbeing, happiness, trust and loyalty, all of which are critical drivers of productivity and long-term engagement. Drawing on neuroscience and biophilic design principles, the brief was to transform the reception of a 130-year-old pharmaceutical company into a contemporary, relevant space that reflects a forward-thinking culture and encourages people to feel welcomed, grounded and motivated to return to the office.
The management team was clear in its ambition. The new reception needed to express the company’s ethos and values while presenting a sophisticated, timeless and inviting first impression.
The existing entrance was located within an imposing triple-volume space, which felt overwhelming rather than welcoming. To address this, an undulating contemporary slatted wall was introduced to frame the reception area. This architectural intervention subtly recalibrates the scale of the space, visually lowering the perceived height and creating a more human, approachable environment. The soft curves guide the eye gently across the volume, reducing sensory overload and promoting a sense of calm.
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The architectural shell was kept neutral to support cognitive ease, while colour, warmth and personality were introduced through the seating area. This strategy allowed visual interest without distraction and ensured budget was directed toward elements with the greatest experiential impact. Grey and white high-gloss decals were applied to individual dated wall cladding blocks to modernise the space cost effectively, reinforcing a contemporary aesthetic without compromising financial discipline.
An organically shaped, bespoke sofa anchors the waiting area and draws visitors naturally into the space, reinforcing the company’s professional yet welcoming identity. Existing maple wall cladding, which had yellowed over time, was carefully reworked to restore balance and freshness to the interior.
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The result is a reception environment that aligns architecture with human experience. Calm, confident and engaging, the space reflects the organisation’s values while fostering trust, comfort and a renewed sense of connection for staff and visitors alike.
