How Inhouse Design Studio Redefined the Corporate Landscape with 10x’s Cape Town Office

In the heart of Cape Town, a city celebrated for its dynamic blend of business and creativity, a new standard for corporate environments has been set. The 10x Investments office, a landmark project by the acclaimed Inhouse Design Studio, is a masterclass in modern workspace design. It’s a space that intentionally moves away from the tired tropes of corporate life, instead fostering a vibrant ecosystem of community, collaboration, and well-being. This project not only showcases the future of office design in South Africa but also highlights the visionary approach of a design firm with both local roots and a global reach.

A Word from the Director: The Philosophy of Human-Centric Design

At the helm of this transformative project is Phillip Wyatt, a Director at Inhouse Design Studio whose passion for architecture and interior design has been a driving force since the firm's inception. With a strong belief in creating spaces that are as functional as they are inspiring, his philosophy was central to the 10x office. “Our goal for the 10x project was to dismantle the conventional office structure,” explains Phillip Wyatt. “We wanted to create a destination—a place where the team feels energized and connected. It’s about crafting a variety of spaces that cater to different tasks and moods throughout the day. By focusing on effective space-planning and weaving the brand’s identity into the built environment, we can produce environments that not only look remarkable but fundamentally enhance the way people work and interact. This human-centric approach is at the core of what we do, whether in Cape Town, Johannesburg, or for our international clients.”

A Visual Tour of the 10x Office: Where Design Meets Function

The 10x office is a testament to Inhouse’s mission: “To bring inspiration and innovation to every design we touch!” Let’s take a tour through the key areas that make this space a benchmark in commercial interior design.

Open-Plan Dynamics & Collaborative Energy

The main work area immediately breaks from the cubicle-farm stereotype. With its exposed concrete ceilings, industrial-chic red piping, and expansive open-plan layout, the space feels energetic and boundless. This design choice is deliberate, encouraging communication and a free flow of ideas.

Sustainability and Transparency Through Glass

A key feature of the 10x office is the strategic and extensive use of glass. Boardrooms and meeting spaces are encased in floor-to-ceiling glass partitions, which serves a dual purpose. Aesthetically, it creates a sense of transparency and trust. Environmentally, it’s a core component of the office’s sustainable design. “Glass is a fantastic material for sustainable design,” notes Phillip Wyatt. “It allows us to maximize the penetration of natural light deep into the office floor plate, which significantly reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day. This not only lowers energy consumption but also creates a brighter, more pleasant environment for the team.”

The Social Hub: Fostering Community and Culture

At the heart of the 10x office is a vibrant social hub, a clear departure from a sterile corporate canteen. With tiered wooden seating, comfortable cushions, and a stylish bar area, this space is designed for everything from a quick coffee break to informal team huddles and company-wide gatherings. This central zone seamlessly integrates with a modern kitchen and various seating arrangements, reinforcing the idea that the best ideas often happen away from the desk.

Work, Play, and Balance

Recognizing that a modern workforce thrives on balance, Inhouse integrated dedicated zones for relaxation and recreation. A pool table and a well-stocked library offer employees a chance to decompress, socialize, and find fresh inspiration. These playful yet sophisticated touches underscore a company culture that values its employees' well-being as much as their productivity.

The Power of Flexible Spaces

Throughout the 10x office, a variety of informal lounge areas and breakout nooks provide the team with choice and flexibility. Whether it’s a quiet corner for focused work, a comfortable lounge for a client meeting, or a small table for a quick brainstorming session, the environment adapts to the needs of the user. These spaces, often defined by stylish furniture, area rugs, and clever use of partitions, are crucial for an activity-based working model.

A South African Success Story with a Global Footprint

While the 10x project is a shining example of commercial interior design in Cape Town, it represents just one facet of Inhouse Design Studio’s capabilities. With a major office in Johannesburg and a portfolio of successful projects across South Africa and internationally, Inhouse has established itself as a design powerhouse. Their turnkey solution, which encompasses a full design package, budget and project management, and construction services, has made them the go-to firm for blue-chip clients across the commercial, retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors.

Your Partner for a World-Class Workspace

The 10x office is more than just a beautiful space; it’s a strategic tool that reflects the company’s forward-thinking ethos and invests in its people. It stands as a powerful testament to what is possible when a visionary client partners with a world-class design studio. If you’re looking to transform your workspace into an environment that inspires innovation, fosters community, and elevates your brand, look no further than Inhouse Design Studio.

Contact the team today to start your design journey.