INTRODUCTION
KONSEP architecture studio was established in 2016 and was born from our unwavering belief that the art of architecture and the creation of space on any scale should be a passionate pursuit for excellence, authenticity, sustainability and integrity. These principles guide our decision making during each and every project we undertake.
Every project that crosses our path is carefully considered and hand picked to ensure that we are the right team for the project, and that our passion and values will be reflected in the end project. We oversee projects from its inception up to the celebration of its completion. We pride ourselves in doing work with immense excellence, working with our clients to achieve timeless and authentic spaces. And once our client-professional relationship is established, it remains a lifelong journey.
OUR TEAM
Rudolph Erasmus
FOUNDER
PROF.ARCH
Rudolph has an immense passion for authentic contextual design, problem solving, sustainability and high-end execution with a passion for intricate detailing; timeless use of natural materials and the control of natural light. He has worked on a multitude of projects ranging from shopping centers, houses, offices, lodges, master plans and many other and is well equipped to rise to any challenge.
Rudolph received his masters in architecture from the university of Pretoria in 2012 and has been practicing architecture since 2010, working with Boogertman + Partners and Living Planet Architects before establishing KONSEP architecture studio in 2016.
Michelle Erasmus
INTERIOR
ARCHITECT
Michelle heads up the interior studio of KONSEP. She is passionate about biophilic design, employing true artisans and craftsmen, and creating unique spatial experiences that are timeless and resonate with her clients. Her designs and curation, by means of procurement or manufacturing of high quality, unique, sustainable products and finishes ensure that clients inhabit spaces that evoke a sense of belonging and connection. Her dedication to perfection is the reason that spaces and places created by KONSEP is always executed in excellence.
Michelle received her honours in interior architecture from the university of Pretoria in 2012 and has been practicing interior architecture since 2011, working with Boogertman and Partners, Saville Row Interior Architects, Life Design Studio and Drawbox Design Studio.
DESIGN PRINCIPLES
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KONSEP ARCHITECTURE STUDIO believes in authentic timeless designs that is responsive to its environment and inhabitants, executed with immense excellence with meraki [to do something with soul, passion and love]. To achieve the desired vision, we follow principles that we strongly believe in to guide us in every decision we make. These principles grow and adapt as we as a team grow and adapt, getting stronger and more intricate with every project we pursue.
Vernacular + contextual design
"Vernacular architecture can be defined as a type of local or regional construction, using traditional materials and resources from the area where the building is located. Consequently, this architecture is closely related to its context and is aware of the specific geographic features and cultural aspects of its surroundings, being strongly influenced by them"
[learn more about vernacular architecture]
Authenticity
"The quality of being real and true of undisputed origin. Reflecting its true purpose, value, intent, being genuine and unquestionable."
Every single decision taken in the design process is questioned repeatedly and reiterated to ensure that the final intent, emotion, spatiality, materiality reflects the unquestionable value of authenticity inherent therein. We believe in using real, natural materials, honest structures; indigenous landscaping to create truthful places and querencia [a sanctuary where one feels safe].
We tend not to get caught up in the thrills of over-technologization; yearly trends or glits and glamour. Instead we aim to incorporate only what is essential to ensure to most natural harmonic relationship with inhabitants and the space. After all, "Perfection is achieved, not when there is nothing more to add, but when there is nothing left to take away." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery
Biophilic design approach
"The innate human need to be affiliated with nature - for physical, mental and spiritual health."
Architecture cannot exist in isolation from the splendor of the natural world around it. We believe that nature should permeate spaces to ensure a tangible connection between the inhabitants and the inhabited. We strongly believe in the numerous spiritual and physical health benefits that living in collaboration with nature present, as opposed to the addition of ancillary amenities and technologies to compensate for the lack thereof.
Great architects design great buildings, but not even the greatest of us can compare to the intricacies and beauty present in nature. The emotions evoked by psithurism [a rustling or whispering sound, such as leaves in the wind]. The soothing of petrichor [the pleasant distinctive smell of rain after a long period of warmth. The ecstasy of apricity [the warmth experienced on the skin in winter] as one bimbles through the garden. Experiencing seatherny [the serenity you feel when listening to birds chirp] The peacefulness of gumusservi [moonlight shining on water] while breathing in the night.
On this we do not compromise.
[learn more about biophilic design]
Symbiotic design between architecture, interiors and nature
The seemingly invisible connection between all things, the golden thread, if you will, that is sewn through the entirety of a project and is experienced even by the most oblivious. It can only be pin pointed through observation, reflection and discussion, but remains present in the quite keeping all things bound
We believe that everything in space, encapsulating space and occupying space contribute to a story. We are passionate about stories and therefor our designs aim to give depth and character thereto. We work together with clients ensuring that every element is essential, authentic and excellent, that every space is filled with ataraxia [a state of freedom from emotional disturbance and anxiety; tranquility.
Sustainability through evidence based research
We are committed to implementing sustainable and adaptive solutions to reduce and even negate any effect of construction and the subsequent habitation of our projects. As technology and solutions evolve, we evolve with it as we continue to push for a symbiotic sympathetic relationship with the planet we inhabit.
[learn more about the principles of sustainable design]
The little things
Splendor awaits in minute proportions. - Edward O Wilson
There is much beauty in spaces and places, but the beauty is magnified in the seemingly minor negligible details. But it is here where the onlooker experiences appreciation and wonder, while the architect and contractors meet with the devil, but the sacrifice is well worth it.