Although an extremely successful firm, the client is equally invested in giving back, and thus briefed Inhouse to champion quality over flashiness and to reflect a subtle tastefulness. Careful consideration was required on the part of Inhouse, as the two separate entities, located in adjoining premises, were to share a communal reception area and boardrooms.

In order to reflect the client’s integrity and pursuit of quality, Inhouse focused on using natural materials for their authenticity and warmth, right across the 1000 square meter footprint. Wood is prevalent in the interior scheme both as a material and a signature element, and all the more notable because it is all sustainable timber. Inhouse carefully repurposed once-used timber from a demolition yard, cleaned it up, stripped it down to its natural form and then installed it in the space. The entire ceiling, a feature in itself, is constructed from such timber.

Similarly, the feature wall in the reception area is made up of off-cuts of this same reclaimed timber. Elsewhere, vertical timber slats act as screens shielding glass fronted meeting rooms. These oak slats balance the need for privacy while also allowing a modicum of transparency. There’s also the view to consider: 80% of the office floor faces the sea.

Because the client required a more traditional office layout from a space-planning perspective, Inhouse added contemporary edginess and distinguishing factors such as custom designs. The boardroom table, for example, is a masterpiece of high-gloss, French lacquer on oak, with a black steel inlay and a black glass top.