Architect and Builder May/Jun 2024 | Page 68

INTERIORWATCH

THE LATEST NEWS AND PRODUCTS FROM THE COMMERCIAL INTERIOR INDUSTRY
NEWSWORTHY
COSENTINO LAUNCHES EARTHIC
Cosentino has unveiled EARTHIC by SilestoneXM , which fuses together unconventional and reclaimed materials to create a sustainable surface concept that sets a new benchmark for the industry . Developed in collaboration with the iconic Italian studio Formafantasma , EARTHIC reinforces Cosentino ’ s long-term commitment in the effort to become a more sustainable company , and continues to pave a path to tangibly minimise the impact of surfaces in the future . “ EARTHIC aims to raise awareness about the importance of design beyond aesthetics and prioritises sustainable production processes ”, said Andrea Trimarchi and Simone Farresin of Formafantasma . “ Our collaboration with Cosentino is an attempt to design from the inside out - where the aesthetic choices corresponds directly to ethical and sustainable choices ”. EARTHIC by SilestoneXM was introduced in April 2024 . Representing the next generation of mineral hybrid surfaces , SilestoneXM distinguishes colours and collections brought to the market by having a maximum crystalline silica content of 10 %. And , thanks to Cosentino ’ s Hybriq + technology , this collection is also produced with 100 % renewable electrical energy and 99 % recycled water . www . cosentino . com
CONDUIT INTERIOR TRANSFORMS HALO
Conduit Interior , the visionary design firm known for its innovative and immersive concepts , has delivered HALO , Cape Town ’ s latest nightlife sensation - a space that seamlessly marries cutting-edge technology with a glamorous design aesthetic . The result is the most captivating and talked-about nightlife venue in South Africa .
Described as ‘ Lady Gaga in a Lamborghini ’ by Trevor Mclean-Anderson , the owner of HALO , the project was completed at the end of 2023 and has quickly become renowned for its provocative , glamorous and immersive experiences .
Grant Johnson , founder and director of Conduit Interior , shared insights into the project : “ We were tasked with turning HALO from a previously derelict nightclub into a two-storey masterpiece . It features the Groove Lounge on the upper level - a premium cocktail and social lounge - and the Main Room on the lower level , a world-class clubbing venue . They both deliver quintessential immersive light and sound experiences , with an interior that appeals to a discerning clientele who seek to amplify their senses in a ‘ World Beyond ’.”
Upon entering the club , guests are immediately immersed in a double-storey wraparound screen accentuated by one-way mirrored walls . The main route deeper into the Groove Lounge is flanked by VIP lounge areas , including the organic Jungle VIP Area and the electronic Mesh VIP Area , each offering a unique and captivating experience . Picture holograms and flying space whales , and ever-evolving screens that slowly come alive over the course of the evening .
Conduit Interior addressed previous layout issues by strategically reworking the club ’ s layout to improve flow and accessibility . “ The main bar , a technological marvel in itself , is now centrally positioned , featuring moving displays behind shelves showcasing organic flowing artwork and premium liquor bottles . Mirrors on the ceiling double the volume , creating a mesmerising visual effect , transforming the backbar into a full ‘ halo ’.”
A second entrance leads to the Basement Main Room , introducing guests through a tunnel of light with a handmade sculptural spaceman overhead . The world-class atmosphere is further enhanced by a Funktion-One sound system .
HALO has quickly become a landmark in Cape Town ’ s nightlife scene , and Conduit Interior ’ s design work is sure to leave a lasting impression . www . conduitinterior . co . za
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