Johannesburg – Corporate Office Renovation
Although we do not often focus on office design, the Macsteel project was a unique and rewarding opportunity. Macsteel is one of South Africa’s most recognised steel suppliers, with its main headquarters located in Johannesburg. The company had purchased an old industrial building that required a complete transformation to become a welcoming, contemporary workplace.
Our role was to collaborate with the primary office design team to develop an overall interior look and feel, inject personality into the space, and soften what was otherwise a purely functional environment. We were tasked with selecting interior finishes, designing the reception and public areas, and introducing bespoke feature lighting and furnishings that harmonised with Macsteel’s corporate colours.
The reception area became the star of the project. We commissioned contemporary lounge chairs in Macsteel’s signature blue, paired with custom-made carpets to ground the space. For a true statement, we collaborated with renowned lighting designer Steven Peaker, who specialises in creating fittings from recycled industrial materials. His sculptural metal fixtures were the perfect nod to Macsteel’s heritage and immediately set the tone for the building.
The entertainment area, designed for client functions and staff gatherings, was treated with the same level of detail. We introduced industrial-style light fittings, a deep buttoned leather sofa, and flexible conversational seating areas to create a stylish yet relaxed space. While the company’s rugby memorabilia and trophies were incorporated, we carefully curated their placement so that the space retained its modern, sophisticated character.
Throughout the building, Macsteel’s corporate blue was subtly integrated as a unifying accent, appearing on feature walls and in soft furnishings. The result was a contemporary, industrial-inspired workspace that felt polished yet true to the company’s identity.
Project Summary
Brief: Transform a dated industrial building into a modern, inviting headquarters that reflects Macsteel’s brand identity while remaining functional and professional.
Challenges: Working within an existing industrial shell, coordinating with corporate colour standards, and balancing personality with a polished, professional aesthetic.
Solution: Designed a welcoming reception area with bespoke blue seating and custom carpets, commissioned recycled metal feature lighting, and furnished entertainment and public spaces with a mix of industrial and contemporary elements. Incorporated Macsteel’s colours throughout to maintain a cohesive brand identity.
