A Snapshot of the Now: Michal Korycki & the SCAPE 100

A Snapshot of the Now: Michal Korycki & the SCAPE 100

We are excited to announce that our co-founder, Michal Korycki, has been chosen as one of the voices in the 2026 SCAPE 100.
The SCAPE 100 is an annual recognition by SCAPE Magazine, a leading authority in the South African architecture and design industry. It identifies the 100 Voices—the architects, designers, and industry leaders—who are currently shaping the future of our built environment. Being included is a significant industry benchmark, acting as a “snapshot of the now” for those driving excellence in South Africa.
 
To mark the achievement, we joined our peers for a fantastic celebration at SMAC Gallery. It was a high-energy night spent connecting with the other 99 voices and celebrating the collective talent in our field.
 
This recognition is made possible through the support of industry partners like Oggie Flooring, who continue to champion high-quality work and innovation alongside SCAPE.
 We are honoured to be included in this year’s list alongside such a formidable cohort of industry peers.

Hidden House Journal Entry

Private Home Collection

Hidden House Journal Entry

From the very beginning, Hidden House has been about negotiation — between slope and structure, light and shadow, view and intimacy. When we first set foot on the Constantia hillside, the challenge was clear: how do we create a home that embraces the panoramic landscape without losing focus on the quality of internal spaces? Every decision, from orientation to massing, has been guided by a careful reading of the site.

 

Construction started with a focus on precision. The terraced hillside required careful calibration of levels and formwork, and even the smallest adjustment could affect both structure and spatial experience. As the first level began to rise, the building’s volumes and relationships became tangible. It was a moment when abstract ideas translated into concrete reality: lines, slabs, and angles converging to form a coherent whole. Adaptability proved essential; small refinements on site were not compromises, but opportunities to refine the design.

 

Led by Co-Founder Ian Gray, Hidden House has entered a particularly exciting phase. The formwork for our barrel vaults is complete, revealing the sculptural geometry that defines this project. Every curve and contour has been carefully considered to ensure a flawless pour. Later, these vaults will be brought into their final form, translating months of planning, coordination, and craftsmanship into a tangible architectural feature that is both structural and sculptural.

 

This stage of the project is a reminder of why we build: to see ideas take physical form, to navigate the complexities of a real site, and to create spaces that respond thoughtfully to their surroundings. Hidden House continues to grow with clarity, purpose, and a sense of quiet confidence — one level, one slab, and now one vaulted curve at a time.

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Scape Awards 2025 Architecture Firm of the Year Shortlist

Scape Awards 2025 Architecture Firm of the Year Shortlist

We’re honoured to share that our studio has been shortlisted for Architecture Firm of the Year at the Scape Awards 2025. Recognition from a platform that champions thoughtful, future-minded design means a great deal to us. Being counted among such an inspiring community of architects, makers, and collaborators is a win in itself.

 

Our entry speaks to what we strive for at Craft of Architecture, and reflects the collective effort behind every project we undertake, the clients who trust us, the partners who bring craft and innovation to the table, and the wider creative community that keeps raising the bar.

 

A heartfelt congratulations to all the incredible nominees. And a sincere thank-you to everyone atScape Magazine, Scape Awards, Infinity Surfaces, Oggie Flooring, and Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel for the support, collaboration, and belief in meaningful design.

COA Adjoined – Ian Gray

ADJOINED by IAN GRAY

A new interview style video reaching deeper into Craft of Architecture and Mobius Interior.

ADJOINED, peers into Ian Gray’s unique work/life adaptation.

Shot by @neobaloyii of @letspropin

Transcript

I am Ian Gray, one of the founding partners of Craft of Architecture and Mobius Interior Architecture. I’m currently sitting in my loft space next door to our studio, which is based in Woodstock, right in the middle of Cape Town.

 

It is interesting. When we found the space, we very much chose it because of the architecture. It’s the old Armoury building. We knew it was central, but we didn’t realize how convenient it would be to be right in the middle of the hub of Woodstock. There’s so many of the old fabric houses here. There’s furniture, design shops, kitchen shops, and a lot of artists. And so in terms of us sourcing and trying to put together these projects, it’s been a very central location and made it really easy to operate.

 

It’s been really good to be entrenched right in the middle of the city. I used to live in the suburbs and obviously I’ve swapped the sound of birds in the mornings for seagulls and taxis. But there’s a definite energy that comes with the city. It’s vibrant.

 

We really end up working many hours, I think, in our careers. And so to have the flexibility to have the work and live environment has been amazing. You can go from this vibrant studio to going home at lunchtime to have lunch, and also just the convenience of not having to be in the traffic of Cape Town. I think the city’s getting more and more congested. And it hasn’t been a part of my life for a while now, where I’m able to just walk across the balcony and straight into my studio.

 

Yeah, it’s interesting. You would think that they would be very intertwined in almost the fact that you weren’t able to disconnect from your studio. They’ve got quite a different feel from an interior perspective. I think my house is maybe a little bit more moody. It’s been amazing once you actually transition out the one door and into the other door, it’s almost instant.

 

I had friends that used to say they love to commute all the way back along the ocean ’cause they could disconnect from where work is. But for me, it seems to happen naturally. Once I close the one door and open the other, I instantly feel like I’m back at home. So yeah, it’s been an easy one for me.

 

It is interesting because there’s so much sunlight that streams into this loft space. We were really very comfortable using a very dark palette, and so you can see it starts with the black floors. And then one of the key things is because you’re not immersed in nature, you’re very much living in the city as the plants. So if you look around the loft, you know there’s so many different types of plants and they very much form part of what the aesthetic language of the home is.

 

And then also there were a lot of existing features, like the columns that we sandblasted, the brick wall at the back. We skimmed it with a layer of plaster, but left the original brick walls that were in the original loft, which is part of the biscuit factory. And then really just the aesthetic of the concrete roofs and the steel black windows.

 

You know, we didn’t replace any of the windows. We got them all serviced, and then just kept that dark color of the windows, but put a layer of fabric in front of them. Sheer curtains so that there would be this layering, and it wasn’t the bright light just coming directly into the apartment.

 

One of the biggest differences probably between the two spaces is my wife’s input. She’s a photographer and she has an amazing eye for detail and she’s very interested in the art of placement. So she’s constantly rearranging everything within the loft to sort of create these key pieces and these key features within it.

 

And you can see it everywhere you look. Everything has a specific place. When we moved into the loft, we had to downscale. We were in a large home. And we pretty much sold a lot of what we owned and downscaled. So everything within this space is very carefully considered. There’s not enough space to have a whole lot of clutter, and you can see it everywhere you look, she’s carefully placed almost every piece within the home.

 

And obviously that’s very different to being in the design studio where there’s 30 odd people working, ’cause it’s very hard to consider where everybody’s going to place something.

 

The studio is very much a creative hub. When you walk in there, you see architectural models, there’s drawings spread all over the desks, and computers everywhere because, you know, all the designs are created digitally now, so that’s very present. You see all the monitor screens and I’d like to think my home is way more toned down, not so technologically advanced. And just a calmer energy, you know.

 

Although we do have four children and the house is quite full, it’s generally a much calmer energy. There’s so many people in the studio, so I’d like to think it’s just a calmer place, and maybe a little bit more expressive of my wife and i’s personal taste, versus what you see in the studio, which is a collective thought process between all the directors and the staff that are in there.

The Future of Retail

Commercial & Mixed Use

A Ride into the Retail of Tomorrow 

Ushering in an era of infinite imagination, retail is undergoing a rapid transformation. The shopping experience is evolving at a lightning pace, fuelled by the ability to influence consumer psychology and subsequently the industry as we know it. Gone are the days when going to the mall was the only way to indulge in retail therapy. As the tech evolution grows, experiential branding is taking the lead and overtaking traditional retail spaces that only display products. When it comes to design, stores and retail spaces are being revolutionised to meet these limitless new opportunities.

There is no doubt that the era of ordinary, dull shopfronts and interiors is coming to an end, making way for flexible, adaptable structures that can accommodate a wide range of experiences. Successful retail spaces are now taking advantage of the intrinsic analogue aspects of our lives while integrating them with online strategies. The resulting reimagined spaces will appeal to our fundamental human needs for social interaction, physical activity, and sustainability beyond what has existed before. 

An automotive immersion

The design trends for global motor vehicle showrooms are set to follow suit, heading for a similar transformation. Showroom floors are decreasing in size, with fewer cars on display. What’s more important now is creating immersive brand experiences that capture the visitor’s attention from the moment they spot them. These showrooms are no longer just places to showcase vehicles; they are becoming dynamic, multi-functional spaces. They serve as community hubs hosting events, workshops, and social gatherings, fostering customer engagement and loyalty.

The intersection of creativity and technology

For the future of car showrooms, there is also a clear trajectory towards interactive spatial concepts, leveraging cutting-edge electronic, lighting, and audio technologies. This visionary approach is exemplified in the groundbreaking work of luminaries like Random International and Random Studio. Seamless skins that bend and push material boundaries epitomise the quest for heightened flexibility and transparency in design. These innovations will profoundly impact architectural landscapes, with existing structures repurposed to accommodate brand pods, while temporary installations will proliferate in unconventional locales, ushering in a new movement of experiential automotive displays at the intersection of creativity and technology.

Cross-platform collaborations

The latest in South Africa is that outdoor activities are becoming increasingly important in our primarily digital world. We are sure to see more cross-platform collaborations that combine automotive brands, lifestyle elements, and sporting activities. The future of showroom design lies in creating mega-campus projects where buildings blend seamlessly into outdoor environments tailored for hosting a variety of events and activities, whether they are sports-related or cultural.

As we move towards experiential retail, the key lies in creating environments that cater to our desires for vitality. By blending physical and digital realms, designers can create comprehensive experiences that go beyond mere transactions, cultivating long-lasting relationships with customers. The future of retail is a vibrant tapestry of sensory appeal, interactive engagements, and sustainable practices, seamlessly blending the best of both analogue and digital worlds.

“Innovations will profoundly influence the impact of architectural landscapes, ushering in a new movement of experiential automotive displays at the intersection of creativity and technology.”

Michal Korycki
Director, Craft of Architecture

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The Heart of Gold Coast Estate

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The Heart of Gold Coast Estate

Ballito, South Africa

Most can agree that the clubhouse is the heart of any estate. It’s a place where people connect, relax, work, exercise and enjoy the benefits of estate living. The exceptional Gold Coast Clubhouse and sports facility are no different.

Located in the Sibaya Precinct, KZN, Gold Coast Estate boasts an extensive array of amenities that cater to the diverse needs and interests of its residents, fostering a vibrant and well-rounded community experience. Developers DEVMCO knew it would not be complete without a jaw dropping clubhouse. The Gold Coast Clubhouse was conceptualised as a versatile and flexible structure with several key objectives in mind. Primarily, it aimed to create a relaxed and comfortable environment, functioning as an extension of residents’ homes as well as a gathering space. In line with this vision, the Clubhouse was strategically designed to accommodate both social areas and more private zones. The ground floor, characterised by an open layout, seamlessly connects to a secure kids’ play area (including a putting green and games room) at the rear, and a spacious infinity pool and deck at the front, offering picturesque views of the wetland and sea. This thoughtful arrangement allows parents to socialise in the restaurant space while providing a safe and enjoyable space for children to play nearby.

The upper level adopts a more adult and exclusive ambience, featuring enclosed spaces conducive to business meetings, a luxurious wine collection, and a cigar bar. This creates a sophisticated area for parties, corporate functions, and conferences. The architectural form of the building embraces an unfussy yet elegant design, presenting a contemporary interpretation of Natal veranda-styled structures. This approach not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also ensures a fitting response to the local climate and context.

But DEVMCO did not stop there. To enhance the holistic communal offering of Gold Coast Estate, they developed an innovative sports facility. Crafted by the architects at Craft of Architecture, who also set the estate’s aesthetic guidelines, the sports centre exhibits a degree of individuality within the contemporary architectural framework, allowing for creative variation.

Deviating from conventional enclosed gym spaces, the facility prioritises natural elements with ample views, fresh air, and natural light. The design incorporates a two-storey, modernist inspired ‘glass box’ as its foundation, complemented by a protective aluminium mesh brise-soleil, addressing concerns of heat gain, sunlight shelter and privacy. It also features a kinetic

screen, comprising 14 000 perforated aluminium tiles, individually mounted on pins, which ripple and shimmer in response to the wind. Its dynamic nature not only contributes to the building’s identity but also aligns with the subtropical climate of Durban.

The location of the facility is also strategically significant to the overall urban design of Gold Coast Estate. Its placement is designed to activate a central park adjacent to it, encouraging pedestrian activity and contributing to the vibrant communal green space.

Both the Clubhouse and sports facility contribute to the sense of community not only within the estate but also the greater Sibaya Precinct.

These communal areas foster multigenerational living and provide a range of amenities but also actively encourage residents to get outdoors. The Clubhouse, with its architectural ethos designed to maximise coastal views, provides residents with a

unique opportunity to connect with nature. This integration of indoor and outdoor spaces encourages residents to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding environment. Moreover, the sports facility is strategically located alongside an infinity-style pool and a large deck, creating a tranquil space for residents to unwind outdoors.

This emphasis on outdoor spaces aligns with the holistic vision of promoting wellness within the estate.

By providing spaces for relaxation, outdoor play and sports facilities, these areas contribute to the overall well-being of residents, fostering a community that values a healthy and active lifestyle.

“The Gold Coast Clubhouse is poised to play an integral role in shaping the identity of Gold Coast Estate,”

DEVMCO

“As we look forward to upcoming developments and initiatives, we anticipate that the Clubhouse and sports facility will continue to be a driving force in fostering a strong sense of community and connection. Whether through additional amenities, cultural events or wellness initiatives, the Clubhouse remains a cornerstone of the estate’s commitment to a holistic and well-balanced lifestyle.”

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Interview with Craft of Architecture (COA) about their work on the landmark later-living development, Rimaal Village in Dubai.

Retirement communities

Interview with Craft of Architecture (COA) about their work on the landmark later-living development, Rimaal Village in Dubai.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Client: Avida
Project: Rimaal Village
Location: Dubai

Rimaal Village by Avida, recently launched at Bvlgari Yacht Club in Dubai, is a landmark later-living project in partnership with renowned architects, Craft of Architecture (COA).

We asked the founding partners to talk us through some of the concepts and design choices working on such a ground-breaking project.

Rimaal Village, designed around the lifestyle pillars of Avida: Community, Living, Wellness & Wealth

Q: Why did Avida decide to partner with COA on this project?

A: “We offered Avida a strong background in prestigious later-living projects. It was important to them that we understood the challenges and could bring our creativity, innovation, and know-how to such a unique project, and the first in the UAE.”

Q: What was the client’s vision for this project?

A: “Avida wanted this project to focus on lifestyle, rather than real estate. They wanted something unique that had not been done before, whilst challenging the perception of ageing and redefining how we approach life in our later years. The project had to revolve around the four defining lifestyle pillars of Avida: Community, Living, Wellness & Wealth.”

Q: With such a unique vision and request from the client, how did you integrate this into the design?

A: “Developing a one-of-a-kind narrative for the Avida brand was a challenge worth taking, given that there is no other brand quite like it out there. To construct a compelling narrative, we meticulously developed the storyline starting with the foundational building blocks such as the location, local history, and culture. We then proceeded to examine these elements from a broader global perspective, allowing us to craft a more comprehensive and captivating narrative.”

The foundational building blocks such as the location, local history, and culture

Q: Could you tell us a little more about the Key Features of the development?

A: “Rimaal Village has a distinctive approach to urban planning, which revolves around the creation of 150 apartments and 50 villas, beautiful gardens, sport facilities, and a large Village Centre. This design fosters a peaceful and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere, where residents can enjoy shopping, leisure, health, dining, business, well-being, and sport facilities in a luxury setting, all easily accessible by foot.”

Q: With the Village Centre being a key part of the lifestyle and design, what amenities are included?

A: “The 8000 sq. metre Village Centre offers a luxurious experience with an array of outstanding facilities such as a boutique shopping centre, state-of-the-art offices and boardrooms for business meetings, a well-stocked library, and a multi-function room for hosting events. The centre also includes a lounge bar and an upscale restaurant for dining, a cinema for movies, and a games room for snooker. For relaxation and wellness, there is a luxurious spa and wellness centre and a modern gym. Visitors can also enjoy bowling at the bowling alley or shop for essentials at the premium supermarket. The Village Centre offers a variety of activities and amenities for everyone to enjoy. The project includes a resort-style swimming pool, surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, making it the perfect place to unwind and relax. In addition to bowling, padel, and tennis, residents can also enjoy a rest pavilion that provides a space for refreshments and relaxation.”

Village Centre – wellness spa

Q: What are the design elements that set this project apart?

A: “Many, from the master planning principles to the handrail details of the stairs. The master plan has been designed to create a sense of community through the creation of various neighbourhoods and clusters that facilitate interaction and socialisation among the residents. With the Village Center in the middle and an extensive system of both open and covered pathways interconnects every aspect of the area, providing easy and convenient access to all its parts.”

 

“The villas have been carefully designed to provide an easy and seamless flow, along with enhanced visibility and absolute convenience. The facades are a testament to the inner workings of the home, with the ground floor being open for living activities and the upper floor being dedicated to bedrooms, with a more sculptural facade that frames stunning views and offers privacy where needed.”

Villa with entertainment and garden space

Q: Could tell us a little more about the sustainability, materials, and passive design features for this project?

A: “To effectively convey the concept of layered narrative and differentiate between planes and surfaces, we carefully selected a diverse range of marbles and stones, each with their unique tones and textures. Through deliberate contrast and careful arrangement, we were able to create a visual representation of the passage of time and the interplay between different elements. The designs maximise the use of natural lighting to create a bright and welcoming environment. Large windows and skylights can bring in ample daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. We have focused on good indoor air quality by using materials that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ensuring proper ventilation, and incorporating air purification systems if needed. This contributes to a healthier and more comfortable living environment. For the outdoor spaces and gardens, we incorporated patios, decks, or gardens where residents can relax and enjoy nature.”

The designs maximise the use of natural light

Q: How do you create that sense of community through design?

A: “The master plan centrescenters around a sense of community through the creation of various neighbourhoods and clusters that facilitate interaction and socialisation among the residents. A system of conveniently connected walkways provides easy access to all parts of the project, including the vibrant village centre. The walkways are seamlessly integrated into the verdant landscaping, where one can meander past refreshing water features, immersing oneself in nature’s beauty.”

Village Centre lounge and bar area

Q: How does this community-led design impact the quality of lifestyle for the residents?

A: “The utmost care has been taken to design a serene and tranquil environment, offering the residents a peaceful retreat. At the same time, the community offers a myriad of opportunities for the residents to engage and connect with their fellow community members. As we age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. Staying active and mentally stimulated is crucial to achieving this. To help seniors achieve this goal, we have taken great care to design environments that promote and facilitate such a lifestyle. These spaces are thoughtfully crafted with features that encourage physical activity, social interaction, and mental engagement. The result is an environment that supports a healthy and happy life for seniors.”

Integrated socialising and living spaces

Q: When was the project launched?
A: “Rimaal Village was officially launched on the 16th of November at Bvlgari Yacht Club in Dubai. The successful launch by Avida was an elegant event, which was wonderful for us to attend with all the other collaborators on the project.”
To read more about the launch, click here

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Avida’s pioneering Rimaal Village, designed by Craft of Architecture (COA), launched at Bvlgari Yacht Club, in Dubai.

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Avida’s pioneering Rimaal Village, designed by Craft of Architecture (COA), launched at Bvlgari Yacht Club, in Dubai.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

November saw the launch of a landmark later-living project, Rimaal Village by Avida, at Bvlgari Yacht Club in Dubai. The elegant evening was a true celebration of creativity, architecture, sustainability, lifestyle, and heritage, bolstered by fabulous food, fine art, live music, and presentations of ground-breaking ideas coming to life in this project.

The launch showcased a new philosophy in lifestyle design in a first-of-its-kind development consisting of 150 apartments and 50 villas, designed around a spectacular village centre and complete with boutique shopping, concierge, offices and boardrooms, library, multi-function room, lounge bar, restaurant, cinema, games room, spa and wellness centre, gym, bowling, pools, sports courts, and a supermarket.   Avida partnered with multi-award-winning architectural designers Craft of Architecture (COA) to create a ground-breaking, luxury-living retirement estate, centred around Community, Living, Wellness & Wealth in the UAE.

“The launch has been fantastic, with so many like-minded people here, bringing excellence and innovation together in a single project. It has been a pleasure to work closely with Avida. Shifting the narrative away from real estate and focusing on a lifestyle project will bring incredible value to residents,”

John van Wyk, founding partner and director at Craft of Architecture.

Avida’s instruction to COA was clear: shift the perception of ageing and redefine how we approach life in our later years. COA’s strong portfolio and their involvement in some of the most prestigious later-year living projects made them perfectly placed to partner with Avida on this project.

Dubai is Avida’s chosen location for their first Later Living Community. Aimed at both international and local high net worth retirees, the project’s core focus remains on the community, health, and wellness its residents will enjoy in this luxury, leisure-style residence.

 

To read more about the project, including COA’s design philosophy and sustainability on the project, click here.

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Crafting the Future: Step Inside Craft of Architecture with Open Studios

Crafting the Future: Step Inside Craft of Architecture with Open Studios

When the sun dips below the horizon in Cape Town, a different kind of light – the creative spark – continues to thrive in the heart of the city. This is especially true during the Open Studios event, an annual celebration where the visionary architects of tomorrow welcome you into their creative sanctum. 

Watch the video above to see the event in action, and find out more below:

A Glimpse into COA’s Creative World

COA, renowned for its innovative approach and dedication to the craft, recently opened its doors for the latest Open Studios event. This one-night affair, held on the 18th of October, wasn’t just an open house – it was an intimate invitation into the “every day” of the studio, an opportunity to witness the creative process, engage in stimulating dialogue, and foster connections that could shape future collaborations.

John Van Wyk, one of our founding directors, shares his excitement about the event: emphasising that it was more about showcasing the daily life at the studio rather than focusing on specific projects. It was a chance to reveal the creative process, the day-to-day activities, and the outcomes of their hard work. 

Michal Korycki (director) echoed these sentiments, highlighting the event’s role in demystifying the profession of architecture and providing a platform for connection and networking among professionals and enthusiasts alike. “Open Studios is a great initiative to kind of have a look behind the curtains of all the top architectural practices around Cape Town.”

The event, established in 2013, has grown exponentially, reflecting Cape Town’s burgeoning status as a hive of architectural innovation. The city-wide celebration stretched from the shimmering lights of De Waterkant and the Foreshore in the north to the artistic heartbeats of Kloof Street in the south. The second night saw enthusiasts exploring the creative districts of Gardens, East City, Woodstock, and Salt River, each studio offering a unique insight into the architectural prowess Cape Town boasts.

Ian Gray, one of the COA founding directors, as well as Mobius Interior Architecture, also shared his insights, discussing the importance of showcasing the tangible aspects of architecture, from materials and textures to physical models and animated presentations. “It’s put on by the city to showcase architecture in the city and

showcase what we’re all doing. Which is just opening up the studios so everybody can see what kind of work we do and the way we do it. Which is quite interesting because you see the different cultures.”

Open Studios: An Educational Journey

The Open Studios event was more than a showcase; it was an educational journey. Visitors, whether students contemplating a career in architecture or professionals seeking inspiration, were immersed in a world of conceptual sketches, 3D models, and interactive presentations. It was a space where questions were encouraged, curiosity was rewarded, and creative boundaries were pushed.

Ian says: “So by this we’re hoping to show that there’s a culture and a vibe in the office, and we’re kind of giving more than this online work, and if you come into this space, you know. It’s a great space for creatives to work, I think”. 

COA’s Club Med Project: A Testament to Global Expertise and Cultural Respect

One of the event’s highlights at COA was the showcase of their recent Club Med project, the brand’s first footprint on African soil.

This wasn’t just any project; it was a testament to COA’s global expertise and adaptability, a confluence of cultural respect, innovative design, and environmental harmony. The project echoed the studio’s philosophy of deeply understanding client needs and realising visions through a collaborative partnership. 

What Sets COA Apart

But what makes COA stand apart in the architectural world? It’s their unwavering commitment to the creative process, a diverse team integrating skills, knowledge, and experience to breathe life into ideas. Their portfolio is a tapestry of architectural ingenuity, spanning various industry sectors worldwide. From master planning and urban design to bridges and infrastructure, each project is a story, a lasting imprint on the landscape of human experience.

A Walk Through COA’s Space

Imagine walking through COA’s space, where each corner turned led to a new discovery. Here, a discussion on sustainable materials and their role in future constructions; there, a deep dive into the complexities of urban planning in growing cities. In one room, the intricate models of private home collections reflected personalised luxury and innovation; in another, the blueprints of commercial and mixed-use spaces highlighted the multifaceted nature of communal living. “And then I think it’s going to come down to them seeing what they do and kind of falling in love with that kind of, that part of the process”, says Ian. 

The event wasn’t just about what COA has accomplished; it was a horizon-expanding experience for attendees. The young eyes that widened in awe at towering models might belong to the next generation’s leading architect. The seasoned professional, rekindling their passion through engaging discussions, might spearhead a project that redefines the city’s skyline.

A Testament to Community and Collaboration

Moreover, Open Studios was a testament to COA’s belief in community and collaboration. The event was free, removing barriers to entry and ensuring an inclusive atmosphere. The studios were grouped by location, encouraging visitors to traverse the city’s heart and engage with its creative pulse. The encouragement of alternative transport resonated with COA’s commitment to sustainability, a small but significant step toward environmental consciousness.

While the event was an open invitation to explore and foster professional connections, it was, at its core, about igniting a communal passion for architecture. John says, “We’re just trying to show off how we live everyday here. It’s not about showing off specific projects or anything, it’s literally about what we do in our day and what comes out of it.” 

It was about inspiring the next wave of architects, designers, and creatives who will carry the torch forward, shaping our living environments with empathy, sustainability, and innovation.

The Future of Architecture in Cape Town

The future of architecture in Cape Town is bright. With its vibrant creative community and commitment to sustainability, the city is poised to become a global leader in architectural innovation. Open Studios is just one example of the many ways that Cape Town is celebrating and nurturing its architectural heritage.

So, next time you’re in Cape Town, be sure to check out Open Studios and other architectural events. You might be surprised at what you learn and inspired by what you see. After all, architecture is all around us, and it plays a vital role in shaping our lives. It’s time to start paying attention!

Michael said: “So the most exciting and important thing that we take away from Open Studios is that it’s showing the youth and the young guys what an architect does, what the studio space is about and showing some of our projects that are exciting in the city and abroad and to reconnect with our colleagues in the industry.”

Imagine a Cape Town where every building is a work of art, where every space is designed to promote human well-being, and where everyone has a place to call home. This is the future of architecture that COA’s Open Studios is helping to create.

Article Content

What Does an Architect Do?

architecture expertise

What Does An Architect Do?

Introduction

When embarking on a construction project, be it a new home, a commercial building, or a renovation, one of the key players you’ll need is an architect. But what exactly does an architect do, and how can they help you bring your vision to life? 

We have identified the ten key actions that architects undertake to support their clients:

1. Design Expertise

Architects are the creative minds behind the aesthetic and functional aspects of a building. They take into account your preferences, local building codes, and the natural environment to design spaces that are not only visually appealing but also highly functional.

Kerzner Single Residential

Source: Kerzner Leeukoppie Estate House 19

2. Site Analysis and Planning

Before putting pen to paper, architects conduct thorough site analyses. In South Africa, this includes understanding the terrain, climate, and local regulations. This knowledge ensures that the design integrates seamlessly with the environment and complies with legal requirements.

3. Client Collaboration

Architects work closely with clients to understand their needs, preferences, and budget. Through detailed discussions, they translate your ideas into a tangible design that reflects your vision while considering practicalities.

At COA, our client relationships are important to us which is evident through our set of core values:

  • We listen
  • We care and take pride in complete accountability.
  • Enjoying the experience is fundamental to our joint success.
  • Growth through collaborative relationships.
  • Creativity with efficiency.

These values determine and guide our client interactions. It is crucial to find an architect who is able to give you the experience you need to complete a successful project. This all starts with communication and collaboration.

4. Technical Expertise

Architects possess a deep understanding of construction materials, techniques, and technologies. They ensure that the chosen materials are suitable for South Africa’s specific climate conditions, providing durability and efficiency.

5. Regulatory Compliance

Navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial for any construction project. Architects are experts in local zoning laws, building codes, and permitting processes. Architects act as liaisons between you and the authorities, ensuring that all necessary approvals are obtained.

6. Project Management

Architects play a vital role in project management. They coordinate with various stakeholders, including contractors, engineers, and interior designers, to ensure that the project progresses smoothly and according to the established timeline.

7. Budgeting and Cost Control

Managing costs is a critical aspect of any construction project. Architects assist in creating realistic budgets and provide guidance on cost-saving measures without compromising quality. Far too many projects go over budget when in reality, if proper planning and budgeting is conducted, there is no reason for running over budget. It is important that your architect acts with urgency and diligence when budgeting costs for your project.

8. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

In South Africa, where sustainable building practices are increasingly important, architects integrate eco-friendly elements into their designs. This includes utilising energy-efficient materials, incorporating renewable energy sources, and optimising natural lighting and ventilation.

View our journal on the V&A Waterfront Swing bridge we recently completed and how sustainability measures directed the design and construction of this project.

9. Cultural Sensitivity

Given the diverse cultural landscape of South Africa, architects understand the importance of incorporating cultural elements into their designs. They respect and integrate local traditions and heritage, creating spaces that resonate with the community.

10. Post-Construction Support

An architect’s involvement doesn’t end with the completion of the construction. They offer support during the final stages, ensuring that the project meets the expected quality standards and addressing any unforeseen issues.

In conclusion, an architect is not just a designer; they are integral partners in bringing your construction project to life. Their expertise, technical knowledge, and attention to detail are invaluable in ensuring that your vision is realised seamlessly and in compliance with regulations.

If you’re embarking on a construction project in South Africa, consider partnering with our experienced team of architects. Together, we’ll transform your ideas into a functional, beautiful reality that stands the test of time.

Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how our architects can turn your vision into a reality.


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