ARCHINIC STUDIOS
Bachelors Projects
A lot of experimenting and exploration are captured during a bachelors degree from the university of the Free-State. We start with focusing on self, then the user, then the community and how all parties interact with their environment.
My first assignment was to design a wearable piece of architecture, we investigated indigenous architectural methods as well studies different landscapes and how architecture lives harmoniously within these environments. First year was focused on how I would live in the designed spaces.
Second year we took note of other people in more public spaces. Materiality and texture was a great design tool here. Documenting the structure became critical in understanding the detail that is at work in assembling structure.
And in the final year we focused on different groups of people in the community in a much larger urban fabric. All design tools learned from day one was actioned and guided with theoretical precedents and poetic understanding of structure and design.
Year 01
The Hut
The brief called for a design, construction and documentation of a hut with a threshold, sense of arrival and domain for two people.
The hut is made up of earth construction, reeds, grass and other unprocessed materials.
A Home in the Cosmic Landscape
Somewhere in the outskirts of the Northern Cape in a forgotten dried up salt pan is a vision for a home for one. One small kitchen, a reading room and ensuite bathroom is included in the ground floor design.
A Home in the Romantic Landscape
Next to a river in a forest is a hidden cabin for one that accommodates an ensuite bedroom and open plan living room & kitchen.
The design is mostly made up of timber materials used in the area.
Year 02
Artist Retreat
Next to a famous art museum in South Africa is a place design for natural artist, Strijdom to escape from reality and create.
The design includes an open plan kitchen & living room, bedroom, bathroom and a separate studio building.
The earth construction that forms part of the datum of the building is inspired by a precedent in Kathu.
Portable Wine Store
A timber constructed, retractable wine stall taht can be shipped from local festivals to your neighbourhood market. This proposed design and includes hidden sleep quarters, an open plan wine store with a seating area on the roof to enjoy any view.
Performance Centre
The Bloemfontein Zoo closed down and the premises opted for a recreational centre that offers spaces for community engagement.
A performance centre dedicated to the work of the African Umoja dance group is proposed.
Year 03
Two Towers Church
A church in Bloemfontein CBD burned down and the western tower and facade collapsed along with the roof.
The church did not have many members, but acted as a gateway between the homeless and a promised after life.
The new design includes a soup kitchen and accommodation for the homeless focusing on woman and children, as well as a skill development centre.
Design School
From light studies to playing with concrete, a tower of hierarchy forms the centre of a new design school. A variety of textured concrete surfaces can be discovered allover.
The programme consists of a art studio, architecture studio, fashion studio, a mini performance theatre and a variety of social facilities that cater for the students of the building.
Apartment Building
Eight storeys of narrative sharing forms part of this new apartment building next to the Bloemfontein water canal.
The programme includes units that cater for students and young professionals as well as public retail facilities and a community market space.
