Gillian Holl

Gillian is the founder and lead architect at Veld Architects. Her passion is grounded in all things Architecture and her work reflects that. Every detail is carefully crafted while making her client's dream homes come to life.

A modern architectural interior showcasing biomimicry-inspired design elements. The left image features an intricate suspended installation of irregularly shaped stone fragments and translucent minerals, seemingly floating in mid-air, evoking the organic randomness of natural rock formations. Warm, linear LED lighting accentuates the textures and depth. The right image presents a contemporary fireplace with a rusted metal hood, mimicking the natural process of weathering, and a sculptural chandelier composed of suspended rocks and glowing bulbs, resembling a fragmented, illuminated canopy. The raw concrete walls and minimalist bench further highlight the harmony between natural materials and innovative design.

Biomimicry in Architecture: What We Can Learn from Nature

Mother Nature is the world’s original influencer. She’s resourceful, interconnected, and inventive. Today, with all the challenges we face, learning from nature and copying her (aka biomimicry) has become a necessity. biomimicry /ˌbʌɪə(ʊ)ˈmɪmɪkri/ noun “the design and production of materials, structures, and systems that are modelled on biological entities and processes.” While biomimicry in architecture […]

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A visually striking architectural banner featuring sustainable design elements, emphasizing the balance between human comfort and eco-conscious building practices.

Sustainable Simplicity: Why Architecture Should be Focussed Around People and the Planet

Every single day we are all sold the idea of MORE. Owning more things. Doing more activities. Or simply, just being and achieving more as a person. No wonder we are all feeling the weight of it. The sheer abundance of the physical, mental, emotional and even digital clutter and waste is just too MUCH.

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A triptych of images showcasing the intersection of architecture and craft. The first image captures hands carefully dipping handmade ceramic pieces into water, symbolizing traditional craftsmanship. The second image highlights a geometric wooden ceiling under construction, blending artisanal detail with modern architectural design. The third image depicts a person walking through a minimalist concrete corridor with floor-to-ceiling windows, illustrating the harmony between human presence, materiality, and space.

Architecture & Craft: Finding balance in a tech-driven world

To say the world is tech-obsessed, would be the understatement of the century. But technology isn’t the enemy. Humanity’s growing depreciation of craft, on the other hand, could very well be. Smart sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) can help us be more efficient, but craft can deepen our purpose. In the year ahead, minimalism and

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Architectural design focused on sustainability and integration with nature. The left side features a monochrome close-up of a textured white brick wall, symbolizing simplicity and intentional material choice. The right side shows a stone gabion wall and landscaped pathway, using natural, reclaimed materials to create a harmonious environment. The architectural approach reflects a redemptive purpose by embracing materials that respect the local ecosystem and create a thoughtful, grounded aesthetic

Intentional and Redemptive Purpose in Architectural Design [Part 2]

A heavy responsibility rests on the shoulders of architects in South Africa that want to design for change. Positive change in architecture requires that we lead with intentional and redemptive purpose. This means we need to be very analytical, yet exceptionally resourceful at the same time. We need to listen intently to the needs and

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Collage of modern South African architecture featuring climate-responsive design elements. Left: Dark interior staircase with glass railing. Center: Exterior view showing brick walls, large windows, and an overhanging roof for shade. Right: Entrance area with indigenous landscaping, including aloes and rocks, demonstrating water-wise gardening.

Resilient & Climate-Responsive Design to Create Comfortable & Functional Spaces

In South Africa, spring has sprung and around us, it is all about change, new beginnings, colour and greenery. It is therefore an excellent season to focus on climate change and what we as local architects can do to help address the issue. It is no secret that the building and construction industry is a

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