Rates Hall

This 240msqm public space was originally constructed in 1997 as an addition to the 40 year old civic centre. This space was designed for a small population within Polokwane and was a very dark space with a busy appearance. The brief was to transform this space into a positive for the public with a feel of openness. The concept was to simply create a bright space. This was achieved effortlessly by first highlighting the teller points, redefining the queuing setup, creating public pause areas and simply making everything white. A new white ceiling was constructed with a re-routed air-conditioning system to achieve the most favourable thermal comfort even during peak periods.

A band of Perspex panels with artwork was introduced immediately below the ceiling. This creates privacy to the offices located above the public gallery while enhancing the view from within the gallery. The teller points are emphasized as an extrusion into the gallery with elaborate lettering. The floor surface is created as a grid of white polished tiles speckled with black inserts of tiles. This grid is further enhanced by a random seating arrangement and stainless steel rails.