KUBE architecture recently assisted with the realization of the Tiny Empire Co-Working Experience in the trendy East City precinct of Cape Town. Located at street level in Wolroy House, a Cape Victorian style building, the space will be co-inhabited by Tiny Empire, Mother City Hardware and Deluxe Coffee Works adding to the precinct’s reputation as the Cape Town Coffee hub.
Historically The building, located on the corner of Buitenkant and Barrack street, functioned as a warehouse. Despite the architectural integrity being weakened through the years by insensitive alterations, the building is still a stately feature in this fast-developing area of Cape Town.
The new entrance lobby and retail components are separated by a timber curtain wall structure tied into the original steel beams and columns. Original steel beams and columns were refurbished and further improvements included reinstating previously bricked up archways. Timber and Glass curtain walls were used to create office cubicles for use by residents. Special care was given to junctions between the old and the new.
Aptly titled, Tiny Empire is born out of the South African economy where young people are inspired to do their own thing and start-ups flourish.
Geared towards a slightly more sophisticated user the concept which was derived from a hotel-style experience where guests and residents “check-in” is the idea of Marco Simal and Justin Rhodes.
Upon arrival you are attended by the concierge who will have pleasure in showing you around.
Other perks include electronic key-cards, beautifully curated meeting spaces and lounge areas, bottled water, juice and fresh fruit and there’s even talk of beer on tap.
Facilities also include a shower and lockers. For function and catering purposes there is also a powerhouse prep kitchen.
Photographs copyright Haden Phipps.
