Schoonraad Architects

Our design philiosophy is based on respect for the land on which we design and build. We pride ourself on simple solutions for complex problems. We follow a tempered approach, only adding what is required to achieve the desired result.

We look to the past for inspiration and translate the architectural response in a contemporary manner. By taking time to study the vernacular or local traditional architecture a lot is gained by understanding the materials used, the way the spaces relate to each other and the buildings response to the local climate. We take great care to understand the site to decide the best orientation for the structure in relation to the wind, sun and topography. Freehand drawing is used as a method to investigate, understand and solve the design and brief.

Please feel free to check out our portfolio of projects, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram to see what we are up to. The best would be to call us so that we can meet up to discuss how we can be of value and assistance to you.

About

Schoonraad Architects is based in the lovely seaside town of Kleinmond, a stone’s throw away from the whale watching capital of the world, Hermanus. This gives us the freedom to link up with projects located in Cape Town and as far as Struisbaai to the East. We do not have an office in Gauteng , but travel there once a month to tend to ongoing projects. This affords us the opportunity to meet up with clients living up country who owns properties down at the coast.

Project Management

The benefit of having practised for many years is that we have formed lasting relationships with professional consultants, contractors and administrators within the industry. We are confident that we can guarantee a seamless process from inception, construction up to delivery of the final product. This service includes dealing directly with contractors and administering projects on behalf of the client.

The Process

To ensure a completed structure that is fit for purpose, the following steps can be used as a guideline to inform you of the procedures required.

Establish the design brief with the client
Conduct site inspection and analize specific and unique properties of the stand
Concept design by way of of freehand sketch plans
Review and develop the design to determine plannning relationships
Prepare building plans for council submission utlising computer aided design software
Submit plans to Home Owners Association for approval if required
Acquire consent of adjoining owners where required for encroaching of building lines
Appointment of engineer or related consultants
Finalize plans with input from other consultants
Submit plans to the local authority and receive approval thereof

Send plans out to tender
Adjudicate tenders and award the building contract to a suitable contractor
Administer signing of building contract
Commence with construction
Inspections by local authority at the various stages specified in the approval documentation
Administer building contract, progress payments and variations during construction
Prepare ‘as-built’ drawings if changes were made to the design during the construction phase
Submit ‘as-built’ drawings at local authority for approval
Final inspection by local building inspector
Council issue the certificate of occupation issued by the building inspector
Client can move in and use property for its intended purpose