Institute For Security Studies
The Brief
The Institute for security studies is a non-profit organization in South Africa, leading in African human security research. BM Architects were approached by the ISS to assist in the search for appropriate premises for their Cape Town offices. The premises needed to accommodate not only their research offices, but also a public component for conference and seminars.
The Concept
The design layout makes a distinct definition between private office to one end and public space to another, with reception and waiting area as a meeting point. The space has been designed to accommodate a multi use space that can host seminars, conferences and meetings of varying size simultaneously.
Integrity of all existing Heritage features was a key aspect of the interiors, incorporating contemporary complimentary elements. Cast iron columns and brickwork have been exposed, ceiling beams have been restored and old archways have been opened and expressed. Integrity and transparency as two of the many core values of The Institute for Security Studies, has been incorporated into all rooms and details.