Contemporary Cape Vernacular Architecture
IntroductionWe are grateful for the opportunity to share our insights on “Contemporary Cape Vernacular” architecture and offer a glimpse into some of the work we have undertaken in this genre. We have curated deep experience in designing distinguished residential buildings, including both contemporary and modern interpretations of Cape Vernacular. This compendium aims to elucidate the […]
The Evolution of Office and Retail Design in South Africa
Imagine stepping into Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront 40 years ago, with ships docked and warehouses looming. Back then, the space was cold, industrial and impersonal. Today, the same area buzzes with open‑plan offices, alluring retail spaces, restaurants, lush courtyards, coworking hubs, and boutiques. It has become an emblem of the transformation in architectural thinking. For […]
Can 3D-Printed Houses Solve Cape Town’s Housing Crisis?
Cape Town, like other cities in South Africa, faces a growing housing crisis. Thousands of families are waiting for government-subsidized housing, and informal settlements are expanding on the city’s periphery. Innovation is needed to solve this problem, and 3D-printed houses may be one of the solutions. 3D-printed houses have the potential to provide a fast […]
Adaptive Use of Shipping Containers for the PRASA Kentemade Train Station
Project Overview The train station is a temporary structure designed using repurposed shipping containers. Situated on the old Kentemade Train Station’s site, the facility serves as an interim transit hub, addressing the community’s transportation needs. This project redefines the concept of temporary architecture by integrating sustainable practices, modularity, and rapid deployment into the public transportation […]
Celebrating the Continent’s Most Iconic Buildings this Africa Month
Africa is a continent of bold contrasts, deep history and forward-thinking design. This Africa Month, we’re celebrating ten of the most iconic buildings in Africa, with quite a number of them being born of architectural firms in South Africa. These beautiful structures don’t just shape skylines but also tell stories of heritage, innovation and cultural […]
The Cape Winelands Airport Development: Leveraging Potential
Imagine owning a newly developed and expertly designed property in the Cape Winelands when the much-anticipated Cape Winelands Airport development is complete. Your property value will go through the roof. With the first phase of operations scheduled to launch by 2027, the R7-billion project is more than just an upgrade. Rather, it promises to become […]
How SA Architects Are Leading The Green Building Movement
With the fight against climate change reaching a fever pitch, increasing pressure is being put on businesses and private citizens alike to invest in green building projects. Architecture companies in South Africa have been leading the charge on the African continent by designing buildings that minimise environmental impact while still maximising functionality and beauty. Their […]
Why Working With A Collaborative Architect Is Essential
Working with a residential architect can be a pleasure or a nightmare, depending on what the relationship is like. If you work with residential architects in Cape Town who are collaborative, it will most likely result in a positive relationship that makes for a pleasant experience and a successful project. Being collaborative depends on open […]
How SA Architects Are Leading The Green Building Movement
With the fight against climate change reaching a fever pitch, increasing pressure is being put on businesses and private citizens alike to invest in green building projects. Architecture companies in South Africa have been leading the charge on the African continent by designing buildings that minimise environmental impact while still maximising functionality and beauty. Their goal is […]
How Biophilic Design is Changing South African Workspaces
Biophilic design is taking root in South Africa, changing how we think about our offices. It’s a design approach that brings nature closer to people in buildings. Commercial architects using biophilic principles in workspaces know that nature has a massive impact on how we feel and work. Leading commercial architecture firms like Design Scape Architects are showing […]