Craft of Architecture

Craft of Architecture Craft of Architecture is a group of designers who value the creative process above all else. We are

This year, the Blisters for Bread walk in association with Lucky Star Lucky Star raised R1.33 million: an incredible ach...
25/08/2026

This year, the Blisters for Bread walk in association with Lucky Star Lucky Star raised R1.33 million: an incredible achievement that goes directly toward feeding school children who need it most.

For thousands of kids across the Western Cape, the meal provided by the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA) is the only nutritious food they receive all day. Taking part in this event is a small step for us, but the impact of ensuring children don’t go hungry at school is massive.
Grateful to have been a part of it this year.

Spanning 14 000 square metres, Oasis Life Constantia brings together 46 freehold homes, 81 apartments, healthcare facili...
18/08/2026

Spanning 14 000 square metres, Oasis Life Constantia brings together 46 freehold homes, 81 apartments, healthcare facilities, and a central clubhouse within a multi-generational estate. The footprint was shaped by the site’s existing mature trees, using a strict tree survey to work around established root systems and tree crowns so the surrounding canopy remained intact from the start.

The buildings were positioned with direct northern orientations to bring maximum natural light into the main living areas and open up clear views of the Constantia mountains.

Architecturally, the project pairs clean rectangular forms where the openings are treated as architectural voids punctuated into these blocks, and the light palette creates an understated backdrop that steps back and lets the landscape take center stage.

Images by johann lourens photography

13/08/2026

Adapting on site is a big part of the process. In part 2 of our walkthrough, Ian Gray | Architect breaks down the site realities of refining the barrel vault forms, including using an angle grinder to sand back shutter-board grooves before applying waterproofing and a uniform protective finish. We’re also preparing the raised roof vaults above the bedroom wing for planted green gardens, working alongside landscaper Carrie Latimer Garden Designer Julip_landscaping to integrate custom drainage troughs where stonework will naturally channel water runoff into the courtyard. Balancing these technical detailing challenges ensures the final structure stays clean, resolved, and grounded in its surrounding landscape.

We are excited to share that Boulevard Courtyard has been shortlisted for Landscape and Urban Project of the Year at the...
11/08/2026

We are excited to share that Boulevard Courtyard has been shortlisted for Landscape and Urban Project of the Year at the SCAPE Awards 2026!

What was once an underutilised, wind-exposed courtyard has been transformed into a vibrant, welcoming public space. By introducing a continuous, laser-cut steel ribbon that seamlessly weaves together seating, shelter, and integrated planting, the team created a functional piece of architectural art that brings warmth and connection to the office park.

A massive thank you and congratulations to our dedicated project team, Ian Gray (Co-Founder & Lead Architect),Omid Pournejati (Design Architect) and Clement Jansen (Snr Architectural Technologist).

Thank you as well to the engineer, Jacques Terblanche at DeVS-SiVEST, steelworker, Ulrick Engelbrecht at Brice & Co. and specialist teams whose collaboration made this achievement possible!

06/08/2026

Architecture is as much about navigating site-reality as it is about initial design intent. In this update, Ian Gray walks us through the evolving layers of the Hidden House: from how the driveway journey unfolds around the central oak tree, to the technical realities of raw concrete and barrel vaults.

While the design aimed for exposed concrete, unexpected hairline cracks in the vaults mean evaluating waterproofing solutions to protect the interior finishes without compromising structural integrity.

Watch as the vision, materials, and real-time site problem-solving come together.

Honoured to make the shortlist for Architecture Firm of the Year (Large Practice) at the 2026 SCAPE Awards of Excellence...
06/08/2026

Honoured to make the shortlist for Architecture Firm of the Year (Large Practice) at the 2026 SCAPE Awards of Excellence.

A nomination like this reflects far more than just our name. It speaks to the energy of our team, the craftsmanship of our project partners, and the trust our clients place in us to shape their vision.

Congratulations to the other shortlisted practices. It’s a privilege to stand alongside studios doing such remarkable work across the built environment.

Thank you to Scape Awards of Excellence and SCAPE Magazine as well as Oggie | European Oak Flooring and Infinity Surfaces South Africa

Big congratulations to Jana Burger on her feature in GetIt Magazine’s July issue!She chats about Villa Sangara at Zimbal...
28/07/2026

Big congratulations to Jana Burger on her feature in GetIt Magazine’s July issue!

She chats about Villa Sangara at Zimbali Lakes: from the initial concepts and architectural language down to how every layer of space and interior detail came together so seamlessly.
Such a well-deserved feature.

Beautifully done, Jana and team!

Images by Troy Bishop | KZN Photographer

The partnership between Zimbali Lakes and Tonino Lamborghini marks the iconic Italian luxury lifestyle brand’s debut in ...
20/07/2026

The partnership between Zimbali Lakes and Tonino Lamborghini marks the iconic Italian luxury lifestyle brand’s debut in Africa through the introduction of Tonino Lamborghini Suites and Residences Zimbali Lakes. Integrated within the broader Zimbali Lakes master development, this innovative project further elevates the North Coast’s position as a premier destination for investment, tourism and luxury living.

The announcement follows the formal signing of the agreement during a recent visit to South Africa by Mr. Tonino Lamborghini and his executive team, who spent time experiencing both Zimbali Lakes and the surrounding region before establishing the partnership.

This milestone represents a significant chapter in the international expansion of the Tonino Lamborghini brand and reflects growing confidence in South Africa as a destination for luxury hospitality, investment and globally recognised lifestyle developments. The introduction of the brand to Africa through Zimbali Lakes establishes a new benchmark for branded hospitality and residential experiences on the continent, bringing together Italian design philosophy, refined living and destination-led experiences within one of South Africa’s most ambitious mixed-use developments.

John van Wyk, our Co-Founder at Craft of Architecture, said:
“As architects of Tonino Lamborghini Suites and Residences Zimbali Lakes, we are privileged to bring together our deep understanding of the Zimbali Lakes vision, the unique character of South Africa’s North Coast, and the unmistakable design philosophy of the Tonino Lamborghini brand. Our approach is to create an architectural expression that responds authentically to its coastal setting while embodying the sophistication, innovation and timeless elegance synonymous with the Tonino Lamborghini brand. The result will be a truly distinctive destination unlike anything currently found on the African continent.”

As this project begins, we look forward to working alongside these greats.

Visit toninolamborghinizimbalilakes.co.za/ or the link in our bio. to register & for more information.

We were honoured to be invited by SAIA-KZN to speak at their recent Practice Breakfast, and we want to extend a sincere ...
13/07/2026

We were honoured to be invited by SAIA-KZN to speak at their recent Practice Breakfast, and we want to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to the conversation.

Our talk, “Wrapping Up 20 Years of Lessons Learnt,” was a really important and different kind of exercise for us, requiring a transparent look at everything that has brought us up to this point; the mistakes, the victories, and all the milestones in between. Drawing from the history of our practice, which was established in 2007 and has grown to over 40 professionals across Cape Town and Durban, Michal Korycki and John van Wyk (with Ian Gray in his absence) pulled back the curtain on the true business side of the industry. The session delved into the practical integration of emerging technologies like AI and 3D printing, while addressing the vital operational realities of talent retention, corporate identity, and international relationships behind our bespoke residential and complex commercial portfolio.

You can watch the full talk on YouTube via the link in our bio.

Hidden House is steadily approaching completion. It has been an incredible journey watching this site evolve, with each ...
08/07/2026

Hidden House is steadily approaching completion. It has been an incredible journey watching this site evolve, with each phase bringing the structure one step closer to becoming a home.

The design is defined by the striking form of its concrete barrel vaults and a close relationship with the landscape, where rugged stone terracing integrates the building into the hillside.
Below, the final layers of construction are coming together, down to the technical tiling and ex*****on of the pool detail.

Stay close for an additional video to the series, from our co-founder and architect, Ian Gray | Architect , as he shares a closer look at the project at this stage.

Address

4th Floor, Buchanan Square, The Armoury 2, 160 Sir Lowry Road, Woodstock
Cape Town

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Monday 08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

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+27216858881

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