MARION ORPEN
DESIGN
SOUTH AFRICA
ABOUT
I'm a South African interior designer based in Cape Town, and have been working as a consultant to architects and private clients for over 25 years.
Previously known as Marion Allan Interior Design, my experience has covered all aspects of the interior design profession.
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My principal skills are concept design, hand and computer drafting, detail design and technical development, as well as on-site implementation and procurement.
Over the years I have been involved in all types of interior design, including commercial, civic, hospitality, retail and residential.
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After completing my studies, I furthered my design education as a space planner and detailer, and was privileged to be mentored by some of the best professionals in the fields of architecture and design. This attention to detail and understanding of space optimisation still informs my work.
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I have worked all over Africa, including South Africa, Botswana, Angola and Kenya, and have collaborated with excellent professional teams, builders, artisans and artists. .
My clients have ranged from large corporate companies to private individuals, including The Nelson Mandela Foundation, Leo Burnett, Boogertman + Partners Architects, Saatchi & Saatchi, Nestlé, Rand Merchant Bank, Naspers, Munich Re and Xigera Lodge Botswana.
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SELECTED WORK
SERVICES
I offer a full design service from concept to site completion, usually as part of a professional team that includes the project architect and other consultants.
The interior of a project is where a client is likely to spend most of their time, so it's important that it fits their requirements, reflects their taste and is a continuation of the architect's intent.
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Depending on the size and scope of the project the services I offer usually include the following.
Concept, mood and material boards
Artist's impressions of the proposed design
Exploring showrooms to select finishes
Preliminary documentation and schedules for costing
Full working drawings and details
Site attendance
Completion and furnishing before final sign off.
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The fees attached to the above services depend on the project size and are based on the professional fees mandated by SACAP.
My fees are usually a percentage of the project value determined by a quantity surveyor. They're divided into progress draws and include a commencement fee.
If the project is small or of a consulting nature I charge an hourly rate.
The procurement of furniture, fittings, equipment and art is another essential layer and is usually separated from the building design work fees.
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The most rewarding projects for me are the ones where the design team and client work together to create an outcome that exceeds expectations, and has beauty and meaning.
