At 50 on Keerom in Cape Town, the fusion of functionality and aesthetics takes center stage as I embrace the philosophy that functionality can be inherently beautiful. Tasked with revamping the foyer of the Advocates Offices, housed within a traditional Heritage building, I embarked on a journey to illuminate the space with a contemporary twist.
The building, erected in 1902, exudes a sense of tradition. Embracing a concept coined as contemporary traditional, the focus lies on infusing the space with a palette dominated by whites, marble-inspired elements, and subtle grey inset tiles.
A key element in the design narrative is the playful integration of wallpaper, strategically employed to evoke a sense of depth and character. Arches and mirrors adorn the space, adding layers of visual interest while paying homage to the building’s architectural heritage.
Ornate skirtings and dados, inherent to the building’s character, are juxtaposed against a backdrop of pristine white, creating a canvas where light takes precedence over colour. Indeed, in this contemporary traditional design ethos, the emphasis shifts towards the interplay of light and shadow, where subtle nuances in illumination serve as the primary accentuating force. The result is a foyer that not only honors its historical roots but also serves as a testament to the harmonious convergence of function and beauty.