THE BRIEF

Sustainably Refresh an Existing Workspace: Revamp and uplift a previously designed office at Katherine & West without structural demolition, focusing on sustainable finishes, lighting, and furniture upgrades that reflect Urbanise’s identity.

• Brand-Driven Interior Layering: Integrate Urbanise Technology’s visual language through bold colour blocking (graphite, deep blue, and white), new paintwork, feature wallpapers, and refined shopfitting to create a modern tech-forward environment.

• Create Purposeful Breakout Zones: Redesign the canteen and communal areas to feel distinct from the work zones — using natural timber, warm ochre, and monochromatic furniture to offer a sense of calm, pause, and spatial balance.

Our Unique Design Solution

The result is a dynamic environment that balances legacy with innovation, fostering collaboration, productivity, and brand expression. This project highlights how thoughtful design can breathe new life into existing spaces, aligning function and culture to support future growth.

The Outcome

• A refreshed, brand-aligned workspace that balances professionalism with innovation — reflecting Urbanise’s smart, scalable tech ethos.

• New shopfitting, flooring, and finishes introduced through a sustainable, additive process — reducing waste while elevating form and function.

• Improved workspace flow and comfort through strategic furniture selection, enhanced lighting, and ergonomic zoning.

• Subtle yet impactful use of brand colours and materials — including deep graphite, Urbanise blue, and warm timber, reinforcing identity without overpowering the space.

Our Unique Design Solution

The industry of mining can become a tough sight to see, but the S16 team was not detoured, but rather was inspired by natural rock textures, metals and minerals. With use of smart open plan office design bringing in plenty of natural light, Traxys Africa promotes interconnected communication, and all in all speaks a palette that is tasteful.

The Outcome

S16 delivered a bespoke design solution that elevates Traxys international brand image.

• Low-level work cluster partitions promote Traxys value of communication while allowing individual privacy.

• Full height interior glass partitions advocate Traxys value of transparency, while simultaneously reflecting the building’s exterior glazed facades.

• Varying ceiling levels increase the interiors volume, adding points of relief to the ceiling plane.

• Integrating the existing terraces into the office footprint promotes an almost effortless transition, furniture welcomes pause and informal meetings, luscious planters line the edge, providing a visual barrier to the adjacent busy main road.

THE BRIEF:

• Develop and plan a coordinated nationwide rollout for ticket sales at all 8 major airports.

• Investigate the "love of flying" and incorporate brand identity and user experience into the design resolution.

• Create a space that not only caters to customers but also encourages staff members to take pride in and ownership of their workplace.

Our Unique Design Solution

Travel culture is embedded in the exploration of new places and experiencing various destinations. While the mode of air travel remains consistent, a traveler's perspective is truly unravelled upon landing. Our design strategy aimed to develop a concept of brand recognition within the airport space, invoking an emotional experience upon seeing the FlySafair brand. We proposed a new front counter, consistent in design features across all airports, yet distinctive in setting FlySafair apart. Simple curvature and strong brand colours were used to define FlySafair's identity and love for flying.

The Outcome

• A playful yet sophisticated brand-recognizable space that evokes customer engagement.

• Newly fitted counters made from Staron, with a unique clip for easier future expansions.

• Enhanced interior functionality for workers, providing more personal storage, comfortable seating, neater desks, and improved wiring solutions.

• Exaggerated branding and signage in size and brightness, emphasizing identity and capturing customer attention.

GREENLIGHTS FOR S16 AND SA TAXI

TAXI AUTO PARTS RETAIL

S16 was approached by SA Taxi to create an efficient retail experience for Taxi Auto Parts - a subsidiary that offers quality new and used taxi parts made ready for sale to the public. 

Our solution was to enhance the customer experience through spacial planning, hardwearing materials and organisation, whilst the introduction of a new visual language, a casual coffee pause area and unique apparel brought the vibrant ethos and culture of SA Taxi into the space.

We are proud, at least in some way, to be part of South Africa’s daily heartbeat.  

SIZE
1100m²

LOCATION
Midrand, Johannesburg, RSA

PROJECT TIMELINE
Design development: 3 weeks
Site implementation: 5 weeks

OUR UNIQUE DESIGN SOLUTION

Inspired by South Africa’s 12th Official Language; taxi hand signals, and SA Taxi’s vibrant internal culture, S16 wanted to create something unexpected and South African that made customers feel welcome. 

It was important to create a hard-wearing, efficient and cost-effective solution that reflects the organisation’s internal ethos and culture. Durable materials that are long lasting and aesthetically pleasing added to the longevity of a highly utilised area.

THE OUTCOME

S16 improved retail experience by introducing generic groupings and categories of items and parts, value-add impulse buys, and spacial planning that improves the internal efficiency of the business. Existing shopfitting was repurposed adding to a cost effective build and a unique brand identity influenced wall details, merchandise and point of sale. 

Illustration and brand identity in collaboration with Alex Adler.

THE BRIEF

• Fit-out the office space within a strict timeline.

• Merge the themes of natural rock textures and hues with a contemporary, industrial look.

• Develop a functional balance between laboratory space and office space.

OUR UNIQUE DESIGN SOLUTION

The S16 team took time to understand the processes involved in copper extraction and mining logistics. The parallels between the art and science of mining, and the services Axishouse offered were clear. Finding beauty in the raw state of what most only appreciate once polished and refined. The inclusion of hand-crafted copper elements aimed to project the authenticity of the clients values. A refined balance of industrial, minimalist and naturally warm finishes spoke to the essence of the brand.

CORPORATE HUB   |  AIRPORT MODEL  

THE BRIEF

• Refine the Corporate Hub Identity and retain the familiar brand essence.
• Create a versatile space housing everything from banking tellers to private meeting rooms.
• Elevate the brand's interior design to exude sophistication and intimacy.

OUR UNIQUE DESIGN SOLUTION

STUDIO SIXTEEN distilled the brand's essence and took exceptional care in ensuring that every aspect of the design amplified the sophisticated and contemporary image of the corporate brand.

• A union of avant-garde design with an intimate ambiance.
• The breaking of new ground guided by the fluency of experience.
• Balancing natural and welcoming aesthetics with contemporary, corporate functionality.

THE OUTCOME

S16 delivered a unique space that appeals to corporate banking clients. Tastefully placed industrial elements were combined with the natural textures of solid timber finishes and copper accents to bring warmth to the space.

• A well-considered layout, sensitive to the client's functional requirements.
• Areas designed to facilitate the personal, first class service on offer.
• An energy efficient interior designed for longevity.

TRANSPARENT.
INFORMATIVE.
SECURE.

Bidvest Bank AIRPORT MODEL

Bidvest Bank tasked STUDIOSIXTEEN to create an all new design for the bank's high-traffic locations.

The Brief

• To create an inviting and open interior within the confined space of the allocated site..
• To utilize hard wearing finishes to create a premium quality space.
• To construct a banking area that is transparent, informative and secure.
• To support Bidvest Bank's commitment to reducing their carbon footprint through the use of energy efficient lighting and materials.

Our Unique Design Solution

S16 combined the client's mandate to communicate security, approachability, integrity and trust.

The Outcome

The high-traffic locations of the airports models are highly contested areas and S16 had just the right design approach and creative flair to attract busy commuters to gravitate towards the branch. Hard wearing finishes were carefully selected and matched to achieve a premium look to outlast the competition. Curved entrance walls draw the customers in whilst :

• Linear light strips direct customers towards the banking counter.
• Only low-energy LED light fittings were utilized as per the client's green building initiatives.
• Extensive use of glass created an open, approachable environment.
• The use of full colour graphics provide clear communication of the services on offer.

EAT WELL
TRAVEL OFTEN

ALZU’s Country & Outdoor

Agricultural exporters, ALZU enlisted the services of STUDIO SIXTEEN to design a space that celebrated their love for the outdoors, whilst creating a platform to showcase some of the best adventure brands around.

The Brief

• To integrate the motto "adventure is out there," into a brand image and the design of the interior .
• To design a space that is boldly unique whilst showcasing brands such as First Ascent, Columbia, Go-Pro and Merrell.
• To create a welcoming space that highlights the inspiring natural vista outside the store.

Our Unique Design Solution

Inspired by the client's contagious passion for nature and conservation, S16 developed an "Out of Africa," theme that took elements of the classic old-world charm and placed a modern twist on them.

• A logo design centered on the rhino was the perfect symbol of the clients' commitment to rhino conservation.
• S16 created an experience for the customers inspired by the life of David Livingstone. A design which was both authentic and maintained retail practicality .
• The "Eat well, Travel often," credo was coined by the S16 team and became the golden thread connecting the space's retail and cafe functions.

The Outcome

S16 created a space that was a masterful mix of colonial-era furnishings with contemporary styling and functionality. Aged leather armchairs and animal hide rugs on screeded floors created visual connections with the earthen beauty of the outdoors. Old-world maps as a wall treatment and natural mahogany finishes brought further continuity to the interior. Vintage bar stools , wooden fans and glass beaded chandeliers were off-set against the industrial exposed concrete soffit in The Waffle Café.

The Brief

• To develop a contemporary concept that would complement their existing furniture.
• To create a space that subtly and tastefully encompasses the companies passion.
• To design an office interior that is both modern and sophisticated whilst maintaining the warmth and intimacy synonymous with a family business.

The Outcome

• A corporate interior softened by the inclusion of rustic and natural elements.
• The office space has soul with intimate break-away area's for the staff.
• An interior that subtly conveys the essence of the brand.
• Kelim rugs , rich in colour demarcate feature areas.
• Rusted planters enhance the authenticity of the interior while the indigenous plants therein bring life into the space.

CONNECTING PEOPLE

Nokia Vodacom World

Nokia is one of the world's largest manufacturer of mobile devices. STUDIO SIXTEEN designed the original Nokia store in Vodacom World to establish Nokia as an individual brand identity in Africa. Once a new visual identity was established S16 was approached to re-launch the Nokia store. The role of the store is to act as brand statement and business builder.

The Brief

• Manage the project adhering strictly to the design guidelines, within a set time frame.
• Provide design input for implementing the international standards locally.
• Supervise and co-ordinate specialist audio and video installations.

Our Unique Design Solution

The store embodied Nokia's customer proposition of, "helping people feel close through human technology."

The Outcome

The S16 team proved that human skill trumps technology in the quest to deliver high quality finishes without missing a single deadline.

• All contractor appointments were made ahead of time and good communication was exercised throughout.
• A world class store was handed over to a delighted and highly impressed client.
• Close supervision and attention to detail ensured the store was built to the exact specifications of drawings drafted in the United Kingdom.

THE BRIEF

• Design each of the banks according to the extensive guidelines which apply to their more than 650 branches across the globe.
• Plan and supervise construction and refurbishment work required to realise the design.
• Maintain and pronounce the brand image in each bank whilst using colourful, comfortable, hardwearing and energy efficient fittings and furniture.

Our Unique Design Solution

ProCredit bank's international footprint meant they had well established guidelines in place to ensure uniformity in the translation of their design language. S16 took these into consideration and combined them with their detailed understanding of the functional requirements of each site and space. It was key to have a solid understanding of the bank's image, and also to make use of S16's logistical partnerships to assist with co-ordination and transport.

The Outcome

S16 made use of natural colours and hard-wearing materials with emphasis on the corporate colour, red, to achieve a down-to-earth, welcoming, and professional environment suited to the brands identity. Durability and longevity was key to the designs extensive, high traffic lifespan. This provided value taking an economically efficient budget into consideration.

The Brief

• To work with the brand's Italian architects to understand and implement their unique design language.
• To find local manufacturers who would match the quality of the imported Italian display elements.
• To co-ordinate and manage the logistical challenges and deliver an interior that is in keeping with the international brand identity.

Our Unique Design Solution

S16 took the time to understand the brand's design language and sourced the very best local manufacturers for each element.

• Ensuring the materials used were of international standard and quality.
• Flexibility in keeping constant contact with the Italian architects, managing customs clearance challenges and supervising the local manufacturing process.
• Producing technical documentation to assist the S16 team to complete construction on time.

The Outcome

The S16 team delivered a space of a quality to compete with the best in this international chain.

• A single smoked oak partition divides the store to create warmth, interest and textural variation.
• A layout that intuitively entices the customer to explore the merchandise.
• Spot lighting contrasting with soft downlights creates a comfortable, easy mood.
• An open sliding shopfront to increase foot traffic into the store.
• Purposely designed definition of zones within the store through the use of colour.

A REVOLUTIONARY REBOOT

MATRIX WAREHOUSE FLAGSHIP STORE

Matrix Warehouse is a leading computer retailer specialising in providing their customers with computer systems and solutions. While undergoing a total rebrand and reinvention, Matrix Warehouse approached STUDIO SIXTEEN to design a space that would best express their refreshed identity.

SIZE
1050m²

LOCATION
Alberton, Johannesburg, RSA

PROJECT TIMELINE
Design development: 8 weeks
Site implementation: 4 weeks

The Brief

• To propose a cost efficient and deadline driven concept that will spotlight Matrix Warehouse’s renewed identity and enhance the customers overall brand experience.  
• To design a contemporary and cutting-edge space, while still maintaining a warehouse feel that appeals to the tech savvy and computer gaming customer.
• To develop a merchandising strategy that best showcases Matrix’s large range of computer hardware, software and accessories with the potential to increase sales.

Our Unique Design Solution

• An innovative take on an industrial warehouse was achieved through the careful consideration of materials. Cement-washed columns, plywood counters and industrial lighting create an edgy warehouse atmosphere. A tech terminal designed as a shipping container, and wooden pallets used as display stands further contribute to the Matrix Warehouse. 
• In collaboration with Blast Brand Catalysts – a strong brand presence was created within the space through the execution of cleverly designed signage, present in the gaming inspired graphics and graffiti artwork. The strong presence of the Matrix logo and the usage of the red and black brand colours amplify the brand experience. 
• The merchandising strategy centred on ensuring that the merchandise on display was the focal point, a crucial consideration for the design of a retail store. The modular display units also allow for flexibility, as they can be configured and reconfigured to fit the potential changing needs of the space.  

The Outcome

S16 succeeded in creating a retail space that fully embodies the rebooted Matrix Warehouse brand identity. S16 offered a forward thinking design solution that considered not only the aesthetics of the interior, but also its ability to function at maximum capacity as a leading computer retail store.

THE BRIEF

• Acknowledge the space as the home of a global brand.
• Respect the brand's identity and uphold it through the use of corporate imagery.
• Create an open and inviting space with designated areas for staff to decompress.

Our Unique Design Solution

The S16 team drew inspiration from VISA's "Life flows better with VISA" campaign. The use of soft curves and organic shapes embody elements of the brand's logo, while the inclusion of fine details infuse personality into the space.

• A design that compliments the sweeping lines of the architectural facade.
• An environment that is contemporary with a light-industrial feel, incorporating our African Heritage into the interior .
• A design that accepts and flows with the changing trend of what office spaces are becoming: playful but professional.

The Outcome

S16 delivered a world-class design which reflects the strength and solid foundation that VISA represents. The concept was thoroughly considered, resulting in a bespoke solution tailor-made to meet VISA’S requirements and exceed their expectations.

• A timber ceiling with recessed strip lighting curves down onto the wall behind the receptionist with a strategic cut-out allowing a glimpse of the natural light and vista behind.
• Playful elements such as Astroturf, graphics and plywood trees were incorporated into the staff pause areas.
• Functionally sized break-away spaces and meeting rooms were carefully placed.

S16 handed over an interior that was exceptionally well received not only by the staff but by all who visited the space. Subsequent to the handover, the design has been recommended as the international standard for all Visa Corporate offices moving forward.