THE FULL SUITE
Cape Town firm FABIAN ARCHITECTS + MAKE STUDIO has built its reputation on trust and collaboration, creating timeless designs for clients over the past five decades. We spoke to partner Lauren Bolus about the firm’s approach to architectural design.
Fabian Architects + MAKE Studio has built up an impressive clientele in the Mother City, Johannesburg and London. Enjoying a high conversion rate of ideas to brick and mortar, MAKE Studio carries out a full range of professional services for private residential clients, from architectural concept design and design development to project documentation, project management and interior design.
What does an architect add to a building project? Architects have an in-depth understanding of spatial relationships, integration and flow, and of the value of the “experience” of space. As professionals, we serve an important aspect of public interest, considering all design elements in their totality. Architects can thus add enormous value to your lifestyle and investment. What is the most important aspect of the clientarchitect relationship? Trust and collaboration are vital – magic happens when they form the base of the relationship. It is an architect’s duty to understand the client’s brief and aspirations, and to use their expertise to transform these goals into reality. Without trust, the goals would be difficult to achieve. And collaboration between client and architect is key – the client should share ideas, but also allow the architect the creative freedom to expand on them and bring them to fruition. How does a project’s location influence its design? Location and context dictate how our buildings are positioned, prescribing the design of spaces in terms of orientation to the sun and views. Levels and different platforms are a result of a site’s topography. Location is also an important consideration in the project budget. Can you tell us a bit about the design principles that have been most influential in your work? We design timelessly, not fashionably, to ensure that our designs have longevity. We value the impact of experience, and how one feels walking into a space. We choose practical and honest materials, and encourage curiosity and exploration, so we can create unique solutions for each project.
What three words or phrases best describe your design aesthetic? Our designs are elegant, contemporary, and honest in their materiality and attention to detail.
In your opinion, what is the most challenging aspect of being an architect? Achieving a balance of creativity and practicality within the client’s budget and brief. makearchitects.co.za