Gillian Holl, Author at Veld Architects

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

2 April 2025 / Architects Blog

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

3 March 2025 / Architects Blog

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

3 February 2025 / Architects Blog

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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A festive banner with a December theme, featuring vibrant holiday elements and cheerful colors to celebrate the season.

How good architecture can reinforce togetherness

5 December 2024 / Architects Blog

This time of the year calls for reflection in every part of our lives. As a local South African architectural firm with a heart for architecture with purpose, it is essential that we mull over many things. From 2024’s highs and lows and future aspirations to trends that excite us in the industry. Doing this

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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]

8 November 2024 / Architects Blog

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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Intentional and Redemptive Purpose in Architectural Design [Part 1]

14 October 2024 / Architects Blog

A beautiful building is not an architect’s only goal. We want to solve problems, and to do this we need to design with purpose. At Veld Architects, our purpose is governed by who our clients are and what they are about. This allows us to design intentionally with function at the core. But there is

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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

5 September 2024 / Architects Blog

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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The Power of Feminine Architecture in Modern Design

7 August 2024 / Architects Blog

It’s Women’s Month! Therefore, we at Veld Architects thought it would be a good time to shine the spotlight on feminine architecture and the role it plays in modern design. But first off: This article is not about designs for women by women but rather the characteristics that have historically been associated with feminine architecture.

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Designing Homes with Purpose

17 July 2024 / Architects Blog

The home is the one place where every person should be able to kick back, relax, and just be themselves. A place to be safe and feel safe, away from the stressors of everyday life. And a place where fond memories are made. At least in an ideal world, this would be the case… Homes

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Veld Architects & the Many Hats We Wear

14 June 2024 / Architects Blog

“I’m always trying to show versatility. I’m juggling, and I’m flipping fire, and I’m chewing gum and rhyming at the same time… on a unicycle, while playing the drums,” – MF Doom The role of an architect is anything but one-dimensional and straight-forward. Every day is different, every client unique, and every project’s demands distinctive

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