Ozow

Ozow, a rapidly expanding fintech company, required a new headquarters in Cape Town that could accommodate their growth and fast-paced work environment. Due to COVID-19, Ozow implemented a hybrid work model, and their immediate priority was to create a workspace that could entice their employees to return to the office by providing an environment that offered something unique and irreplaceable compared to working from home.

To achieve this, the workspace needed to be a biophilic environment that fosters a relaxing atmosphere. It was also imperative to have agile and adaptable workspaces that promote collaboration and flexibility to support Ozow’s dynamic operations.

The objective was to create a workspace that not only entices existing employees to return but also attracts new talent to Ozow, while embodying the company’s energetic, family-oriented spirit.

From the moment you step out of the lifts, the workspace captures your attention with feature lights and green walls, creating the sensation of entering a rocket ship that has been dormant for years and is now one with nature. As you move towards reception, you’re drawn to the Origami feature and observe plants hanging from the ceilings, as if nature is bursting through the ship’s panels.

Through rocket ship-themed doors, you enter a space designed for agility, flexibility, and collaboration. Large open plan clusters, focus pods, high tables, and informal huddle spaces are situated to encourage innovative ideas and seamless teamwork. Innovative lighting designs guide you to call and nap pods that offer secluded spaces for employees to escape from the bustling Ozow environment. Meeting spaces, such as the war room, are strategically placed in the central core of the space, allowing for maximum utilization of Cape Town’s 360-degree views. Smart integrated systems control everything in the room from one central panel, including lighting, HVAC, sound, and VC.

In the pause area, there are multiple seating landscapes, including café-style, booth, harvest tables, and comfortable lounge seating, all situated on raised platforms to keep walkways separated. The addition of a tequila bar embodies the work hard, play hard environment Ozow sought to create, not only for their “Ozowks” but also for their clients.

The branding of the space immerses and engages occupants to the fullest extent. Phone booths are themed after tranquil settings, while nap pods focus on the Northern lights, enhancing the space’s relaxation features.

The new Ozow headquarters in Cape Town is designed to facilitate growth, encourage collaboration, and embody the company’s brand of providing a work environment that is a welcoming and stimulating escape from home.

ClientOzowLocationPortside, Cape TownCategoryCommercialArea2080m²Circa2023