EXEMPLAR HEAD OFFICE

Clubview, Centurion
1500sqm
Completed 2024

Client: Exemplar REITail
Architect: Living Planet
Electrical & Mechanical Engineers: Ingplan
Structural Engineers: De Villiers Consulting
Quantity surveyors: Quanticost
Main Contractor: Mike Buyskes Construction

Photographs by Sarah de Pina

The newly completed 1500m² Exemplar REITail head office in Clubview, Centurion, is a harmonious blend of modern elegance and the warmth of nature. Our design concept centers on merging the sleekness of contemporary aesthetics with the organic beauty of natural materials, particularly timber, to create a workspace that feels both refined and grounded in nature.

Inspired by the serenity of the wilderness, the office space fosters a deep connection with the natural world while maintaining the functionality required for a dynamic corporate environment. The design balances rustic charm with modern sophistication, using a palette of earthy tones, warm neutrals, and organic textures that celebrate the inherent beauty of the materials.

A standout feature of the design is the thoughtful integration of elements from Exemplar’s previous property. Reclaimed wood was repurposed throughout the space, forming the reception desk, main entrance doors, boardroom table, and coffee table accents. This reuse of materials not only adds character but also reflects the company’s respect for sustainability and history.

The main reception atrium is a striking space, featuring a double-volume pitched roof and a full-height living green wall that brings the outdoors in. The sweeping steel balustrade of the staircase gracefully extends into the reception desk, creating a fluid, elegant movement that welcomes visitors. A custom chandelier by Stephen Pikus, crafted from recycled glass in various shades of green, echoes this flow, with broken curves that build up to a dramatic drop of light.

The reception area opens onto a tranquil pond that extends from the exterior into the building, further blurring the line between the natural and built environments. Artworks throughout the interior showcase hand-sketched depictions of Exemplar REITail’s key developments, including Thembisa Mall, Alex Mall, Giyani Plaza, and Kwagga Mall, adding a personal touch to the space.

A series of artworks in the reception area pay homage to Exemplar’s journey, tracing the company’s origins from the humble Sokatumi cottage in 1985 to their state-of-the-art headquarters in 2024.

Exquisite detailing and high-quality materials define the interior, with green forest marble, natural timbers, brass, leather, and Oggie flooring creating a rich, tactile experience. Thoughtfully placed lighting highlights these materials, creating mood-enhancing illumination that enhances the overall ambiance and underscores the unique character of the space.