national research foundation (nrf)

nrf (national research foundation) interior upgrade, brummeria, pretoria

Nuclei was appointed after a careful selection process, to design and construct an overall renovation of the existing research Library at the NRF. A relative small space, that had to accommodate several functions, plus a large volume of research material, proved to be a challenge, but was resolved with good planning and a clear separation of the three distinct functions.

Reception and admin, Reading and seating area and lastly the research and study area. The surrounding walls were used almost exclusively for shelves to accommodate the large collection of books, magazines and other research material. We closed the existing windows as they were overlooking into an adjacent dining area that was a later addition. In order to give the illusion of light and windows, a creative light-box design with a vinyl graphic image was placed behind the reception counter as part of the décor elements defining the space. At the seating area, custom artwork was commissioned to create a sense of place and identify with one of the research fields of astronomy.

The end result was a cosy, professional and very efficient space, that proofed a welcome change to the cluttered and dull library of before. Having successfully upgraded the Research Library at the NRF Head Office in Pretoria, Nuclei was again invited to tender on the planned interior upgrade of their Head Office building adjacent to the CSIR premises in Pretoria. The upgrade included a complete interior upgrade and renovation for the main entrance foyer/ reception, all corridors, stairwells and the four main boardrooms plus the auxiliary entertainment area. The main objective was to improve their corporate identity and visibility as well as to add more colour and uniformity to the existing buildings. Nuclei was fortunate to secure the tender due to the success of the library upgrade.

Since the NRF is a non-profit parastatal and rely on donations for these upgrades, budget constraints limited the extent of the work. Many hours were spend in consultation with the large client body and various department heads, to establish a clear and defined client brief. Concept proposals were submitted and approved, where after the design was developed into construction and tender documentation. The tender was awarded to TREND Projects and construction completed a couple of maths later.

The NRF projects are clear examples of Nuclei’s dedication to client requirements, space utilisation, as well as efficient design planning and execution.