{"title":"Architecture","description":"\u003cp\u003eExplore our featured Architecture\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"13-baker","title":"13 Baker (Refurbishment)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePolitically correct:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWritten 2019-08-21:\u003cbr\u003eWe were commissioned to be the architect of record for this refurbishment:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFormally one of the buildings Sasol used to occupy in Rosebank. Our client had a 6 month overlap to take advantage of while Sasol moved across to their new building in Sandton.\u003cbr\u003eAs always in central nodes like this the lack of adequate parking was the main catalyst for this refurbishment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe started by building a parking deck that basically doubled the amount of parking for this building but even then we still had to increase the amounts by adding hydraulic car lifts in the basements\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan architects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41977578356839,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Baker_10_ae7cfe92-cc7c-4e5c-bee3-4e5d20d9b263.jpg?v=1774268648"},{"product_id":"479-berea-street-refurbishment","title":"479 Berea Street (Refurbishment)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eA study in contextuality – the restoration of a 1913s home.\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo design a space implies understanding need, form, and function and adding a specialist lens of aesthetic practicality. That is architecture with a solution-thinking hat on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRestoring a historic building adds to this process. It adds an element of understanding the context in which it was built as well as the connection to the context of where it must function now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCould a humble home built (as far as we could surmise) in the 1913s, be restored not to its former glory but also fit for purpose in an off-grid, eco-conscious, and fast-paced reality, while paying homage to the golden era of the nation’s capital?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat was the conundrum the team of specialists faced. To begin such a project starts with passion and a love for the structure and, a lot of experience and research.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1913 was architecturally and technologically speaking a big year for the brand-new Union of South Africa’s administrative Capital. It was the year the magnificent design of the Union Buildings, designed by Sir Herbert Baker was completed. The year before the municipal tram shed was built and a total of about 20km of tracks was bustling through the city. While horse and cart was still the primary mode of transportation, trams were a new and exciting innovation. Victorian architecture merged with a vernacular style that has become quintessential hallmarks – like the veranda and the red floored ‘stoep’ or porch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConsidered the golden years of this city, several historic buildings and monuments date from this time. The well-known farmhouse of the magnate Sammy Marks, just outside of Pretoria is just one of them. Stroll through the Victorian mansion and you get a feeling for the opulence and industriousness of this new Union of South Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is just fitting that this particular house has a magnificent view of the Union Buildings. It must have been a fantastic site in those days. And hopefully will be for many years to come.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith this history in mind, the owner of the house requested the house which had one owner and family for 60 years, be renovated with the charm of the golden era, but with the amenities and context of the current reality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat care was given to keeping structural authenticity. The floors are Baltic pine, sourced after many trips to many salvage yards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe walls are built with red ‘Kirkness’ bricks, a very important business in the young capital (and related to the street with the same name in neighbourhood of Clydes Dale). We exposed two of these (one with the imprint “Kirkness” and one with the imprint “Pretoria” as a design element at the front door as one of the many small celebrations of the history and time this house was originally from.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ceilings are moulded steel-covered layers of paint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe porch or ‘stoep’ is painted with Plascon’s oldest product, red floor paint, and something you would be familiar with if your grandparents lived in a home from this era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe journey of restoration is well documented through the pictures taken as the project progressed but doesn’t tell the whole story.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMany items sent the whole team off on a treasure hunt for the original material. The Baltic Pine for the floors is one of those items.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo restore the ceilings took a team of 4 craftsmen more than a month to delicately heat with a gas burner and scrape with their hands. One man had to be in the ceiling, with a fire extinguisher in case of a fire, while the others scraped off old paint from the bottom. Some of the steel ceilings on the porch had to be remade by a specialist as that specific pattern and size are impossible to source.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew elements add to the feeling of opulence and classic atmosphere: Brand new led-glass windows, beautifully designed and manufactured by Fanus Boshoff.\u003cbr\u003eThe impressive solid Red Oak kitchen counter and the beautifully crafted adjustable kitchen shelves, reminiscent of farm-house style with a brand new elegant look and practical functionality were designed by the architect and handcrafted by Noblemen Kitchens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditional features have been added in the same style – a gorgeously designed and uniquely styled outside guest restroom facility, a classical rose garden, and round window frames made from recycled wood from old doors sourced from the house.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe house is now ready for the twenty-first century, prepared for an era of hotter temperatures and all the infrastructural challenges of a new Africa, with extra recycled insulation in the ceiling, Plascon’s white Heat reflecting Nuroof paint, and complete off-the-grid functionality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo successfully complete a project of this nature calls for several critical elements. Firstly a homeowner with the capacity to see the vision, understand the heritage, and have the passion for recreating a masterpiece. Then you need time, experience, and resources to hunt for the material to ensure an authentic restoration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou also need specialists that understand the era and possess the craftmanship to ensure quality work. Bert Griffioen of AJ Renovatum (specialist renovator of historical Pretoria buildings), as well as Henk Jonders of Nobleman (wood craftsmen that built the kitchen table in shelves), are amongst some of the specialists that helped made this dream a reality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen designing a brand new space is a culmination of immaculate planning space, budget, needs and tastes merge into a final product. The restoration of a classic one has the added responsibility of ensuring the legacy of the original structure as an echo of the past and its times are celebrated while ensuring relevance in the current context.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrank Gehry Canadian-American architect is known for (amongst other landmarks) the Guggenheim Museum and the Walt Disney Concert Hall said: “Architecture should speak of its time and place, but yearn for timelessness.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith 479 Berea street, it is a combination of all of these elements that makes it an homage to old-world quality and style. And, while it is not a massive concert hall with a futurist design, it is a gem that offers a glimpse into a world that was. Now it is restored to be a celebration of vintage charm while adding all the modern touches that make living in it a luxurious pleasure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was an honor and a great privilege to work on this project and could not have been done if the owner did not have the inclination and passion for restoration. May the people enjoying the views of the city have the same nostalgic memories and also see the bustling city full of innovation and industry. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/media\/set\/?set=a.4863130890457815\u0026amp;type=3\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eSEE MORE PROGRESS PHOTOS ON FACEBOOK\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan architects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41977660244071,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/479-Berea-Street-Refurbishment.jpg?v=1774268689"},{"product_id":"sketches","title":"Sketches","description":"","brand":"pietman lategan architects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41984355729511,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Sketches_0015.jpg?v=1765698549"},{"product_id":"wapadrand-mountain-sanctuary","title":"Wapadrand Mountain Sanctuary (Refurbishment)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDo you yearn for the peace and quiet of a bush lodge after a hard day at work? This property offers you the opportunity of shutting away the world and yet it is a stone’s throw from Pretoria’s busy East.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNestled in the picturesque Bronberg Mountain range, the house is part of a very small and exclusive development, the perfect harbour for nature lovers that live busy lives. It is exceptional and unpretentious, with breath-taking views combined with thatched roof, open rafters and a “bush lodge” feel; you expect game to roam in your back yard. It is a lock-up and go with surprises on every of its six levels – like the natural rock formations that form part of the structure, the hidden balcony perfect for a late afternoon glass of wine and different views framed in every window.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe house has 4 bedrooms and 2 and half bathrooms, a laundry, cellar storage and double drive-in garage. Bathrooms and kitchen is newly refurbished as is the wooden floors and stairs. It is an earthy and authentic space for the discerned homeowner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan architects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41984357630055,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Wapadrand_009.jpg?v=1765698815"},{"product_id":"the-wall","title":"The Wall","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis apartment block is ideally situated 100m from the Gautrain Station in Hatfield, Pretoria, and was designed primarily for student accommodation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt consists of 174 apartments, 14 of which are loft apartments, and was designed with an industrial flavour. The industrial influence allowed for some creativity with regards to surfaces and textures. Where possible, all surfaces were exposed and the use of corrugated iron clading and rebar in the hand rails helped define this ultimate new modern apartment block.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe initial brief was to include a climbing wall in the atrium, hence the name, The Wall. It was later decided that this might not be a good idea with the apartments being occupied by university students! The name however remained and today The Wall occupies the urban space admirably.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan architects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41984357892199,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Wall_005.jpg?v=1765698965"},{"product_id":"tampa-florida","title":"Tampa Florida (USA)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThese two houses where headed for design disaster when the owner contacted the architect all the way from the United States for architectural services that would differentiate these units. The two separate family homes where in need of compact, clear design that stood out from the other houses around it. Situated on a riverbank, the design not only optimises the beautiful views with big windows and out-door living spaces, walkways and balconies, but also ads a touch of signature Pietman Lategan Bauhaus structure and simplicity. The rooms are spacious and airy with high windows and natural light, complimented by the interior design and furnishings. In both units the kitchen and living space are combined as one big open space, flowing out onto a balcony, with sleeping quarters on the third floor offering privacy and tranquillity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe exterior is a balance of textures and geometrical shapes that oozes elegance with varied exterior wall colour to high-light design elements, wooden shutters, aluminium door and window frames, wood and stone cladding. The design is a proud beacon of South African architectural excellence and it is not a strange sight to see passers by stop to admire these sister designs, although same in design touch and style, still individually unique.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan architects","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41984359071847,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Tampa_0025.jpg?v=1765699295"},{"product_id":"monreve-apartment-block-hatfield","title":"Monreve Apartment Block Hatfield","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompact Quality\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Monreve development is a small student accommodation development in the heart of the University of Pretoria community, walking distance from all major amenities. It consists of 14 student apartments and the goal was to design apartments that were beautiful yet functional. It is an early example of Pietman’s style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThough small and compact the spaces are light and airy with a feeling spaciousness. The varied textures of face brick, plastered walls and chrome balustrades combined with quasi-industrial features all combine to offer efficient and aesthetic lock-up and go living for the discerned student.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41990391988327,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Monreve_001.jpg?v=1765777329"},{"product_id":"midrand-business-park","title":"Midrand Business Park (Refurbishment)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLong-term Commitment\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Midrand Business Park is a corporate office park that consists of five buildings and grounds with various and changing tenants. This project started off as a revamp of the 1980’s buildings, with refurbishment, landscaping and other elements as part of the corporate architectural brief. Since then Pietman has been involved as consulting architect that is involved in structural, safety, legislative and aesthetic needs of the tenants and landlord alike. In many instances property developers will develop a space and then leave it up to tenants to look after their premises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis of course causes great risk with regards to safety and compliance. The developers of this office park did however step up to the plate and have a consulting architect on stand-by for any refurbishments and tenants needs. It is a demonstration of responsible development but also long-term commitment to a well-established project.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41990427213927,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Midrand_business_0021.jpg?v=1765777720"},{"product_id":"house-vassanjee-eye-of-africa","title":"House Vassanjee (Eye Of Africa)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTransparent Living\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis beautiful study in modernist minimalism is situated in the Eye of Africa Estate.The clients required an open, free-flowing space where energy and people where central to the structure. Implementing principles of Feng Shui and beautiful structural narrative, the architect designed a home that showcases the people living there instead of the other way around. Employing Bauhaus symmetry, simplicity and functionality, the house is at once an aesthetical structure and also frame for the family that resides in it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe house is designed around the central entertainment and living space with views on to the garden from any vantage point, reflecting family values and family get-togethers. The roof overhangs are particularly well designed; the windows are protected from the harsh sunlight and yet the overhangs do not depress the structure and overall lightness of design. The stairs, windows and doors are design features as much as they are functional. Water features, garden, lap pool, stand-alone work offices, green house and main building are all pieces, which combined, represents light living in every sense of the word. This example of residential architecture suggests opulence and effortless luxury.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/sahomeowner.co.za\/built-family\/\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"House Vassanjee Home owner Magazine article\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eRead the Home owner article about this home here\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=TQ-AYt3wqY0\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"Top billing program about House Vassanjee (Eye of Africa)\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eWatch the top billing program about this home here\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41990517588071,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Vassanjee_009.jpg?v=1765778214"},{"product_id":"house-swan-eye-of-africa","title":"House Swan (Eye Of Africa)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEasy Living on the Green\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSituated in the picturesque Eye of Africa Golf Estate, this compact family home overlooks the stunning golf course, making the most of the outdoors and beautiful surroundings. As beautiful example of residential architecture it combines clean precision and symmetry with varied textures of coated walls, open flush jointed face-brick and wood to give it at once a well designed feel that is open and inviting. Lines are reminiscent of Bauhaus Architecture but are understated and true to its natural environment and purpose. The swimming pool and outside entertainment area are immediately visible from the front door and the flow of design entices one to step outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe central staircase to the upper floor frames a beautiful double volume living space that is airy and bright with high windows letting in natural light. The spacious double volume design breathes luxury and the high quality interior finishes compliments the architectural design. It is at once an easy “lock-up and go” with an exuberance in the use of space, sliding doors, windows and entertainment areas which makes it inviting and cordial – the perfect family home.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41990581551207,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Swan_0011.jpg?v=1765778468"},{"product_id":"house-gavin-and-niqui","title":"House Gavin And Niqui","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Great Indoors\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis opulent residential home is situated near Hartebeespoort Dam on a smallholding with indigenous bush and a feeling of rustic farm living. It is the epitome of inside outside living with effortless flow from the fire-pit and farm dam swimming pool into the bar area, massive double-sided fireplace, unique kitchen cube and open, double volume spaces inside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe owners love to entertain and the structure was designed to suit their personalities and life-style combined with the stunning natural surrounds. The use of stone cladding, polished concrete, face-brick, wood, open rafters and high windows add to the ‘bush lodge feel’ of this sprawling residence. The kitchen is a particular design feature as an accentuated face brick cube within the massive barn-like structure of the open-plan double volume living space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt once giving it an intimate and accentuated atmosphere, perhaps the best example of the character of the whole structure’s design. The house flows from the outside area through the living and entertainment space to the bedroom quarters on the far side of the house. The whole architectural narrative is open and inviting where outdoors and indoors merge into truly African hospitality.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41990614909031,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Gavin_0019.jpg?v=1765778806"},{"product_id":"embassy-ivory-coast","title":"Ivory Coast Embassy  (South Africa)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEmbassy Ivory Coast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn extension and upgrade to the embassy of the ivory coast\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNorman Foster said: “If you weren’t an optimist, it would be impossible to be an architect.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the planet goes through a pandemic and Africa battles political plagues such as corruption and coup’s, the South African landscape changes daily as we navigate through the dichotomy of developing nations in a developed world with advanced technology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetween load shedding, pandemics, incompetent eco-centric leadership decisions, and a compliance system that is failing us, we can easily throw in the towel and say that surely nothing can get worse. Any realist worth his salt would agree with this rather gloomy sentiment. Yet, in the midst of all the noise and chaos architecture by its very nature produces structure and shelter. Since the dawn of humanity, our structures and architecture have been a necessary and important element of human evolution and existence. We need shelter, but also safe, sustainable, economical, and lasting structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArchitecture evolves as mankind evolves and faces new challenges. Covid-19 has made it clear that we have to re-design and re-focus once more. Although this project was riddled with outside noise, so much so that I am amazed at its completion four years later, it is a testament to the enduring nature of architecture and its place in humanity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArchitecture in South Africa seems to have transcended a broken system and indeed transcends chaos and segregation. It gives a concrete unifying message of how we are all human with human needs, however, those needs might change rapidly in the face of new challenges….\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArchitecture found a way.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41990644007015,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Embassy_Cote_008.jpg?v=1765779040"},{"product_id":"14-kramer-refurbishment","title":"14 Kramer (Refurbishment)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDated Office Block to Interior Design Hub\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo page through the “before and after” pictures of this refurbishment project is to see a tired old office block transformed into a slick, cutting edge landmark. 14 Kramer is situated in the centre of a flourishing interior design hub in Kramerville, Sandton and it houses offices, retail space and manufacturing space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is one of the architect’s favourite projects and was completed in 2016. Key elements that makes this project stand out from its surrounds are the accentuated protruding windows combined with smooth surfaces, industrial feel finishes and the beautiful art deco style entrance emphasized by corrugated iron cladding. Great thought has gone into mirroring the style in the interior with polished concrete flooring, corrugated iron, Re-bar (reinforcing bar) as interior design element, industrial style light fittings and exposed services. The hidden gem is without a doubt the elevator with an industrial feel and a vintage style floor dial, wooden panelling and industrial style light-fittings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis project demonstrates that with insight and depth of perception industrial and commercial architecture can be a combination of practical efficiency and aesthetic authenticity,\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41990718292071,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/Kramer_8.jpg?v=1765779564"},{"product_id":"luxury-refurbishment-waterfall-equestrian-estate-624","title":"Refurbishment in Waterfall equestrian estate","description":"\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"4\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA Metamorphosis in Waterfall Equestrian Estate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"4\"\u003eWhen my client acquired the existing home in the prestigious Waterfall Equestrian Estate, it was a classic fixer-upper—a dated property with good bones but lacking the sophisticated edge expected of modern luxury living. They didn't just want a simple renovation; they sought a complete architectural reimagining. It requires a highly specific eye to look past heavy, traditional structures and old-world brickwork, stripping a building back to its very core to uncover the contemporary masterpiece hiding beneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003eThe refurbishment process was an absolute transformation. We replaced the heavy, enclosed aesthetic with the clean, sweeping geometry of 21st-century design. By introducing bold horizontal concrete planes and expansive floor-to-ceiling glass, we completely redefined the home’s relationship with its environment, seamlessly dissolving the boundaries between the opulent interior and the sprawling equestrian landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6\"\u003eTo give the exterior a distinctively suave, modern signature, we integrated a striking colonnade of vertical louvers. Paired with integrated, seamless linear lighting, the facade now boasts a confident, rhythmic energy that comes alive at dusk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"7\"\u003eThis project goes beyond mere refurbishment; it is an exercise in elevating a forgotten space into a sleek, light-filled contemporary sanctuary. The result is a masterclass in modern luxury—a home that doesn't just adapt to its surroundings, but boldly attracts the eye and sets a new standard for estate living.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"7\"\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" title=\"Complete visual story of refurbishment\" href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/media\/set\/?set=a.1023914796414129\u0026amp;type=3\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSEE THE COMPLETE VISUAL TRANSFORMATION STORY ON MY FACEBOOK PAGE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42271493423207,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/20_da4e3574-328f-4719-ac00-2759e0eb5150.jpg?v=1774268798"},{"product_id":"afgri-marblehall-refurbishment","title":"AFGRI- Marble Hall (refurbishment)","description":"\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"3\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eResurrecting Function: The AFGRI Marble Hall Headquarters (2018)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"4\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"4\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eThe Context\u003c\/b\u003e Marble Hall is an unapologetic, hardworking agricultural hub. Driven by the Loskop Dam irrigation scheme, it is an environment that demands infrastructure that performs under pressure. In 2018, AFGRI—a cornerstone of the South African agricultural and mechanization sector—acquired a dilapidated warehouse in the town. The vision was to transform this forgotten shell into their new regional headquarters and state-of-the-art servicing workshops.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"5\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eThe Approach\u003c\/b\u003e This project was the absolute definition of \"real\" architecture. It was not about erecting a fragile, pristine monument from scratch; it was about recognizing the latent structural value in a broken building and bringing it back to life. The brief required a space that could handle the heavy, industrial reality of servicing large-scale agricultural machinery (like their John Deere fleet) while simultaneously providing a refined, welcoming corporate headquarters for the staff and farming community.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"6\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eThe Transformation\u003c\/b\u003e We stripped the dilapidated warehouse back to its honest bones. Instead of hiding the industrial nature of the structure, we leaned into it. By maximizing the existing footprint and restructuring the internal flow, we completely transformed a dark, neglected space into a highly functional, light-filled environment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"7\"\u003eThe process itself was incredibly grounded and satisfying for the entire team. There is a unique architectural satisfaction in removing decay, solving practical spatial problems, and watching a ruined building breathe again. Today, the AFGRI Marble Hall HQ stands not just as a corporate office, but as a highly efficient, robust machine that serves the agricultural heartbeat of the region.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"pietman lategan","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42275002712167,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/files\/20181130_104820.jpg?v=1774346327"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0636\/8768\/8295\/collections\/Pietman_Lategan_Front_page.png?v=1765724303","url":"https:\/\/pietmanlategan.com\/collections\/architecture.oembed","provider":"pietman lategan","version":"1.0","type":"link"}