The Gijima Experience Centre demonstrates how the principles of modern luxury translate into a real workplace. One where technology, hospitality and culture coexist seamlessly.
Designed as a vibrant hub for creation, innovation, and celebration, Gijima's new Experience Centre seamlessly blends the corporate world with modern luxury.
As a proudly South African business deeply invested in upskilling, transformation, and the empowerment of its employees – particularly women and youth – Gijima envisioned an innovation hub that truly reflects its people.
Inspired by the dynamic ideals of Afrofuturism, this case study explores how cutting-edge technology and modern design elements converge with luxurious touches to create a unique and inspiring workplace.
The scope encompassed multiple meeting rooms, a high-end auditorium, a barista station, and a showcase space for product launches and demonstrations. Furthermore, various collaboration spaces were strategically placed throughout the floor plan to facilitate ad-hoc employee meetings.
The resulting environment encapsulates class, fosters exceptional service, and offers a welcoming and beautiful experience for all.
The Art of Balance
The design introduced softer spaces between functional meeting areas to balance practicality and aesthetics. While meeting spaces needed to remain functional, adjacent spill-out areas were designed to soften the overall atmosphere.
Just as our activities and mindsets shift throughout the day, our spaces should accommodate these transitions. This is the essence of modern luxury in the workplace.
Wellness-Focused Design
Soft, plush furniture, optimised natural light, biophilic elements (like plants and water features), and dedicated wellness spaces fostered an environment that was both visually appealing and comfortable. The restrooms underwent a refreshing renovation, transforming them into hotel-style facilities.
Premium Materials and Finishes
High-quality materials such as marble, glass, polished woods, and fine metals were used throughout the front-of-house areas. These not only look sophisticated but also contribute to the space's durability and longevity.
Attention to Detail
No detail was overlooked in the experience centre; from the selection of furniture to the placement of the smallest decorative accents, every aspect was meticulously considered to achieve a cohesive and visually stunning result.
Whimsical Aesthetics
To foster a more comfortable and inviting atmosphere, the design incorporated home-like elements with cozy furniture and natural materials. Enhancing this feeling of warmth and belonging, coffee table books, scent diffusers, plants, and various decorative products were strategically placed to humanise the space.
Bold Wall Treatments and Art Curation
Moving beyond simple paint, the design incorporated textured walls, unique artwork, and subtle branding elements. This layered approach creates visual interest and reflects the company's identity in a three-dimensional way. Effective workplace design is about more than just corporate colours.
Statement Lighting
Layered lighting schemes that combine ambient, task, and accent lighting enhance mood and productivity while adding a touch of elegance with high-end fixtures.
Hospitality Infused
Blurring the lines between office and hospitality spaces, the design creates welcoming and comfortable environments with features like welcome hubs and elevated food and beverage options. Upon entry, visitors and staff are greeted by the inviting aroma of coffee, as a barista station was strategically located near the entrance to provide refreshments and serve as a spill-out space for hosting functions and events.
Bespoke Design
Custom-made furniture and storage solutions, perfectly fitted to the space and catering to ergonomic needs, enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Locally sourced soft furniture deliberately breaks the mold of traditional office furniture, creating a warmer and more welcoming experience.
Luxurious Breakout Areas
The incorporation of comfortable, hotel-like spaces for informal meetings, relaxation, and socialisation, featuring plush seating and premium finishes and local art.
Gijima shows that the future of workplace design isn’t about choosing between technology and hospitality, it’s about using both to create places where people genuinely want to spend time.