In conversation with GIANT LEAP
Design Director Richard Shaw adds that knowing what staff want from an office has been the subject of numerous studies over the past few years, but getting it right is not as easy as one might imagine. “There’s a continuing focus on what companies need to do in this regard. For us, the critical thing is to really listen to your staff and their input on what would bring them back into a formal workplace environment and enable them to thrive.” The nature of Giant Leap’s work demands that they constantly monitor workplace trends. For some time now collaborative environments and ancillary facilities have been heavily focused on globally, but is this what South African companies are looking for? Osorio is sceptical. “Blindly following global trends is not what we do. We’ve seen
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support the individuals working in a space – as well as the company itself – and whether these amenities will contribute to a ‘thriving office’. The workzone for instance is of critical importance, and while it may not have ‘front-of- house’ visual appeal or contain trending amenities, it demands professional design attention. This is where staff spend many hours in a day and where their well-being is most tested. Airflow, the transfer of sound, the ergonomics of chairs and desks – these are elements which make or break staff wellness and productivity.
‘white elephant’ spaces created which simply aren’t being used because staff didn’t really want them in the first place, or don’t know how to use them. We listen first, and then we develop a workplace concept, and design spaces which people understand and will use.” A tendency to design facilities just because a client has the budget or because they look fantastic, is something the Giant Leap team studiously avoids. Instead, design concepts are guided by understanding which amenities will
October 2025 | Issue 141 | Asset Magazine 109
108 Asset Magazine | Issue 141 | October 2025
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