Crafting Comfort in Corporate Spaces
Using design to create a homely atmosphere in the workplace is one of the most effective ways to enhance the experience of staff members. For this project, Anamarie Roberts, Creative Designer, and Gareth Roberts, at KD Designs, Technical Designer, combine aesthetic vision and precise craftsmanship to transform a traditional corporate space into something truly welcoming. Every furniture piece is carefully curated to serve equally well in a home, making the workspace both practical and deeply personal.
A Modern Style with Rustic Soul
The overall aesthetic of the project is sleek and modern, yet infused with a contemporary rustic charm. The designer avoids a cold, overly polished look by introducing subtle textures and earthy tones that radiate comfort. Pops of colour add personality, while an African-inspired feel brings authenticity and cultural depth to the space. “She didn’t want it to feel like a typical corporate room,” the designer explains. “It had to feel alive, warm, colourful, and uniquely ours.”
Reception with a Touch of Luxury
As the first impression of any corporate environment, the reception area is treated as both a statement and a welcome. Here, Zimbabwe Black granite, a material popular in high-end homes, is used to achieve that balance. Found in kitchens, bars, and vanity tops, this granite lends a strong yet familiar tone. The cabinetry mirrors residential design, with drawers, tall cabinets, and dresser-style units that add warmth without sacrificing professionalism.
The Library: A Space to Breathe
The company’s library is designed as a refreshing escape from the fast-paced office environment. Rich teal blues, greys, and natural white oaks create a calming palette perfect for relaxation or informal meetings. “It’s a place to switch off from the outside world, or host clients in a setting that feels effortless and calm,” says the designer. The Chesterfield couch, a nod to 16th-century design, anchors the space with its deep buttoning, low lines, and modern, durable fabrics, a fusion of old-world charm and modern resilience.
A Homely Future for Workspaces
In the reception, a process known as feathering softens the granite’s natural shine, reducing the “boardroom gloss” in favour of a more relaxed, lived-in texture. This detail perfectly captures the spirit of K D Designs, turning a professional environment into a space that feels like home. As more architects and designers embrace this “home-meets-office” movement, the line between residential comfort and corporate sophistication continues to blur, proving that the modern workplace can be both productive and personal.
Materials That Last and Impress
Durability is a key consideration throughout the project. White oak, a hardwood that resists yellowing over time, maintains its rustic appeal for years. Natural granite surfaces and solid wood flooring reinforce longevity and warmth, ensuring that beauty doesn’t fade with use. Every element from tiles to timber is chosen to withstand the high traffic of a corporate space while maintaining that cozy, homely character.
