SYNOPSIS
Lagos-based architects, CMD+A, recently completed this office retrofit for Ventra media in Lagos. The project involved optimizing a previously under used space that was poorly lit and poorly planned. The architects were able to achieve more efficient space planning and functional floor usage while maximizing daylighting with minimal alterations to the existing structure. All of this worked together to produce a well lit, well appointed office space.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
[dropcap size=big]R[/dropcap]etro-fit design and execution can be particularly challenging because it involves working within the existing constraints of a given site and creating interesting spaces sometimes in the most un-interesting of places.
We were commissioned by ‘The Guardian Nigeria’ to carry out the required works for Ventra Media at their Head Office in Isolo, Lagos. We have worked with Ventra Media on their previous office space and were quite pleased that we were entrusted to carry out the works for this move. As we had worked with Ventra previously, we had a good understanding of how they use their space design and the aesthetic to create.
Cost was a major constraint and it was important to deliver this project at a reasonable price. We worked with existing partition lines only providing additions were necessary. Most of the interventions carried out were cosmetic including painting of the ceiling and Walls. The biggest expense was the tile works, for which we used ‘made-in-Nigeria’ tiles and were quite pleased with the result.
The biggest challenge was the existing duct line for the central HVAC, which had been abandoned for several years. Our initial intent was to completely remove this member but, we were later advised this would not be possible. This element eventually became the tie-in-factor as we completed it in the company’s distinct color, and fondly coined it the “green mile”.
