Gardiol Bergenthuin Architecture

Each project is a highly individualised study of many facets leading to the final end result. My first introduction to the Project is the Client, the personality, the wish list, and the found objects as in lifestyle, collectibles and furniture. Next is the Site, it’s topography, the surrounding (built) environment, the climate, building methods and available materials. Not forgetting the regulations! -Council, Town Planning and Aesthetic Committee! An intensive thought process is started after my first introduction – a creative process of “problem solving” leading to the final built entity. Many ideas are examined, leading to one final choice. This design process excites me. I am fascinated by contemporary things – the here and now. Architectural design has evolved, not without reason. We know much more about light, volume and space nowadays. Coupled to this is the influence of current technology on building materials. In South Africa we have access to the best in natural products – and using this in contrast with Hi-tec materials creates something vibrant – or combining old with new is exciting. Drawings done, comes the challenge of putting paper to work – a far cry from the esoteric luxury of abstract design. The construction phase is tough but fun ( if your team is OK ) and as the built shape evolves ideas still grow. Finally, all done, the First Prize is a happy client, in his/her/their customised own new space. For a more detailed discussion, I would like to refer to an article I wrote on the "The Spirit of House" for the journal of the Transvaal Institute of Architects, now known as the Gauteng Institute for Architects (GIFA).