Question 1

What is the process for starting a new architectural project with KONSEP?

Accepted Answer

Our process begins with an open conversation—an opportunity for us to get to know you, your aspirations, and the unique qualities of your site. From there, we curate a design journey that’s tailored to you, guiding you seamlessly from initial concept through refinement, approvals, and ultimately the realization of your project. Each stage is managed with care, creativity, and clear communication. If you’re curious to see how we turn vision into architecture, we’d be delighted to start a private conversation with you.

Question 2

Qualifying project criteria

Accepted Answer

We take on a limited number of projects each year so we can stay closely involved and deliver the level of care, detail, and quality KONSEP is known for.

A project is usually a great fit when it aligns with most of the following:

Budget
We genuinely enjoy projects of all sizes, but our current focus is typically on higher-end builds—projects where there’s enough scope and budget to deliver the level of detail, craft, and hands-on involvement we’re known for.

Project type
We specialise in high-end residential, hospitality, and boutique commercial projects, including interiors where it adds value to the overall vision.

Preference
We’re especially drawn to new builds, heritage properties, and sites with exceptional views — the kinds of projects where architecture can respond meaningfully to place.

Scope & intent
The best fit is a client looking for a thoughtful, site-responsive design approach — architecture that feels calm, timeless, and deeply connected to its setting.

Timeline & process
Great projects take care and coordination. We prefer a process with reasonable lead times for concept design, approvals, and documentation (we’re not big on rushing good work).

Decision-making & collaboration
We value client input deeply, and we like to spend time getting to know the people behind the project. Often, the process involves working through many ideas to uncover the real brief — the core need beneath the wishlist. For that reason, our best work happens where there is trust, open collaboration, and the creative freedom to shape a clear, considered vision.

Location
Knysna is home, and the Western Cape is very much our playground. We care deeply about this region and the role architecture can play in shaping what it becomes over the next decade. We do however enjoy working in remote locations — especially where there’s a beautiful landscape, an accessible airport, and clients with a unique vision.

Question 3

Does KONSEP Architecture handle both architecture and interior design?

Accepted Answer

Yes. KONSEP offers a holistic approach, integrating both architectural and interior design services in one studio. This synergy allows us to create cohesive environments where every detail—from the building’s form to the interior finishes—supports the overall vision and enhances the user experience.

Question 4

How long does it take to design and build a new home or commercial space?

Accepted Answer

Project timelines can vary significantly depending on the scale, complexity, and unique requirements of each commission. As a general guide, the design and approval phase may take several weeks to a few months, while construction typically ranges from eight months to over a year. We pride ourselves on clear communication and realistic timelines, ensuring that every phase is carefully planned and executed.

Question 5

How involved will I be in the design process?

Accepted Answer

We tailor our approach to suit your preferred level of involvement. Some clients choose to immerse themselves in each step, from concept to detail, collaborating closely with our team and guiding key decisions. Others prefer a “carte blanche” approach, entrusting us to interpret their aspirations holistically and deliver a result that not only meets, but often transcends, their initial vision.

Our aim is always to understand your desires, context, and priorities—whether you want to shape the process alongside us, or simply set the direction and let us execute. Either way, we value open communication and clarity at every stage. You can expect a final result that is not only functional and beautiful, but also thoughtfully considered within the larger architectural picture.

Question 6

What can I expect in terms of architectural fees and project budgeting?

Accepted Answer

Architectural fees and interior fees are generally tailored to the scope and complexity of each project, and are typically based on a percentage of the construction cost or a fixed fee for defined services. While we provide clear guidance and transparency regarding budgets and costs, we believe in focusing on value and quality above all.

1. To better understand construction cost, please visit our cost estimator below to assist you in determining  how much your project will cost.

2. For a clear understanding of how architectural professional fees work, please visit SACAP fee calculator to get acquainted with the guideline professional fees.

3. For a bespoke proposal, we recommend reaching out to discuss your project in detail.

Question 7

Our fees

Accepted Answer

At KONSEP Architecture Studio, we believe great design begins with trust.
Our work is rooted in authentic design, excellence, and timelessness. Architecture isn’t just about drawings — it’s about time, creativity, technical precision, coordination, and enthusiasm poured into every detail. Our fees reflect the vast amount of work required to transform a vision into reality.

How Our Fees Work?
Our professional fees are calculated as a percentage of the total construction cost of your project. We use a sliding scale, ensuring that smaller, highly detailed homes receive the attention they deserve, while larger projects benefit from economies of scale.

Sliding Scale for Residential Homes 
R8 million → 12% 
R10 million → 11% 
R15 million → 10.5% 
R20 million → 10% 
R25 million →9.5% 
R30 million → 9% 
R35 million → 8.5% 
R40 million → 8.3% 
R45 million → 8% 
R50 million+ → tailored 
(All fees exclude VAT and disbursements such as travel, printing, and specialist consultants.)

What does that mean for our clients? 
We are aligned with national professional standards, but we’ve chosen to position ourselves in a way that makes excellence accessible without compromising the art of creating architecture. Our clients get the reassurance of a service grounded in SACAP guidelines, with the added trust that we’ve set our fees to balance fairness, transparency, and value.

Resources:

https://www.sacapsa.com/calculator

Question 8

What are the various work stages of the architecture process

Accepted Answer

1. Project Inception
We begin by understanding your goals, budget, and timeline. In this phase, we:
Define your brief and explore your vision
Assess the site, zoning rights, and land constraints
Identify potential regulatory or technical requirements
Establish an indicative project programme
Recommend the necessary consultants and contract approach

This stage sets the foundation for a successful project.

2. Design concept & development
Our design process merges concept creation with design refinement. During this stage, we:
Present spatial layouts in the form of concept plans
Present three dimensional architectural vision in the form of video or imagery.
Consider materiality, building services, and sustainability
Ensure alignment with land-use rights and local regulations
Collaborate with consultants (e.g., engineers) early in the process
Refine the design to include technical resolutions and finish selections

This comprehensive approach ensures clarity, feasibility, and design integrity.

3. Council Documentation
We prepare and submit detailed drawings for municipal approval and ensure all required coordination is complete.

4. Technical Documentation
We:
Finalize specifications and technical drawings
Facilitate contractor pricing and evaluation
Recommend a preferred builder
Compile the construction contract for signing

This stage ensures your project is ready to move from paper to the physical world.

5.Construction oversight
We administer the building contract and oversee site progress including:
Providing the builder with construction documentation
Conducting regular site inspections
Coordinating subcontractor inputs and resolving queries
Ensuring compliance with design intent and quality standards
Supporting the final inspection and occupancy certificate process

Your vision is built with precision and oversight.

(Note: only applicable for projects in excess of R5 million)

6. Closeout and handover
The final phase ensures a smooth and complete project wrap-up. We:
Manage handover documentation and operational manuals
Issue final completion certificates
Provide as-built records and contractor warranties

This stage ensures long-term confidence in your built environment.

Question 9

How are renovations different from new builds?

Accepted Answer

Renovations require a distinctive approach compared to new builds. At KONSEP, we begin with an in-depth discussion to understand your vision, needs, and budget. This initial conversation helps us clarify priorities and identify any potential challenges unique to your property.

When a renovation requires an accurate record of the existing structure, we provide specialist 3D LiDAR scanning to digitally capture every detail of your building. This advanced technology allows us to create a highly precise digital model, which becomes invaluable for planning, design integration, and avoiding costly surprises later in the process.

Renovations can sometimes become more expensive than new builds due to unforeseen issues within the existing structure—such as hidden defects or outdated services—which may only be discovered once work begins. It’s also important to note that professional fees for renovations are generally 25% higher, reflecting the increased complexity, the need for detailed investigation, and the creative expertise required to marry the old with the new.

While new builds offer a clean slate and the opportunity to execute every element to exacting standards from the outset, renovations demand adaptability, experience, and meticulous attention to detail. With KONSEP, you can trust that your renovation will be expertly managed, from the earliest conversations to the final result.

Question 10

How do you ensure the privacy and exclusivity of your clients?

Accepted Answer

Discretion is fundamental to our practice. We respect our clients’ privacy and take care to safeguard sensitive information and project details. Our commitment to exclusivity extends to our design process, ensuring that each project is bespoke, personal, and protected from imitation.

Question 11

Delve into our posts for some more insights?

Accepted Answer

Visit our posts page >

Question 12

How do I know how much my project will cost?

Accepted Answer

Follow the link to the cost estimator

This will guide you in determining what you project might cost.

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