Francois Marais Architects has grown from small beginnings, established in 1996, into a highly respected architectural firm in Gauteng, South Africa. The motto of this dynamic practice is to produce signature buildings, each unique in their own right. Every project is approached with the excitement at showcasing the firms full extent of both passion and a comprehensive understanding of the clients
brief. Individual attention to each clients lifestyle and needs is fundamental to ensuring that their residence is designed around themselves, and to suite their environment. The diverse South African climate also plays a vital role, and with individual attention to detail, a unique design is always borne. A desire to seek new Architecture continues to push design abilities to the limit. Not afraid to experiment with designs beyond the norm, it is not unusual to see houses designed by the firm employing free flowing elements that push the engineering limits. Where complex designes are viewed as an opportunity to showcase the physics of architecture rather than viewed as obstacles. Design elements attempt to blur the division between the interior and exterior, encouraging owners to embrace the African climate and open up their buildings to live outdoors and interact with the surroundings when the climate allows for it. Increasing his scope within the architectural environment, Francois has recently introduced an interior design division, to the firm. Understanding that architecture and interior design each have their own separate roles within designing the project on hand, both are equally as important. Although one field focuses mainly on the structural elements and on the exterior aesthetics of the building and the other focuses on the interior elements and finishes, they need to be integrated, complimenting each another. Like many of the greatest architects, Francois understands the prosperity of bringing in the exterior design and surrounding into the interior of a dwelling. It is proven advantages for the client to employ an Architect with an in-house Interior Design team, since they will be able to work together from the introduction of the project while establishing a thorough interpretation of the brief, ensuring a common goal. Understanding the importance of a good working relationship between an Architect with the Interior Designer, Francois approached this obstruction with appreciation and as an opportunity to grow the firm and introduce an Interior Design team that ensures clients needs are fully understood and effortlessly executed while not only in the designing phase but in the implementation of the design too.
