Architect and Builder Apr/May 2018 | Page 77

MINIMA’S TWIST ON MODERN MINIMALISM WORKSPACE FOR THE CONTEMPORARY URBAN NOMAD OPEN SANDTON COLLABORATIVE WORKSPACE Shweshwe meets Angularity in minima’s latest addition to its woven bamboo lighting range. Recently launched at the Next 18 Trade Exhibition in Cape Town, the Echo, Cubic and Mosaic lights have added geometric texture to the Nordic simplicity that traditionally characterises minima’s designs. In line with universal trend textures and woven fabrics the geometric twist is simple yet effective. Not only does it complement minima’s minimalistic roots but also adds complexity to the light created from the design. Following on from the Aura and Serene designs, this latest style reveals more of minima’s founder and designer, Jacques Cronje’s innate love for the way timber bends and curves. Made from digitally-cut Bamboo flexi-ply – a bendable yet firm material, the lights are hand-finished and coated with a low VOC water- based polyurethane sealer to make them eco-friendly. New to this range are the metal clips that connect the flat panels once interwoven to form a double-curved shape. Earlier styles make use of easy tension and compression systems that clip together. All of minima’s light can be flat-packed making it easy to transport for the export. www.minima.co.za Designed by GASS Architecture Studios around the concept of the contemporary urban nomad, the OPEN co-working space offers a unique and unexpected interpretation of what a collaborative working space can offer in the Sandton precinct. The paradigm shift in the way people live and work is translated into an architecture supportive of freedom and self- determination through considered design of interior spaces and their relationship with the surrounding area. Counter to these spaces yet still innately complimentary, the intervention is grounded in its urban context by embracing the inherent experiences of community interaction afforded by proper city life. Interior spaces of meetings rooms, offices, co-working areas and seminar rooms offer varied and flexible ways to work and interact whilst an adaptable auditorium space caters for larger events and workshops. A juxtaposition of ground floor work and social areas embrace street activity and civic life by externalising its use onto the streetscape, offering an alternative to the surrounding context’s vehicular dominated nature and lack of pedestrian friendly thresholds. www.gass.co.za | www.open.co.za Interior Watch 77