Name: Gillian Holl
Company: Veld Architects
Website: www.veldarchitects.co.za
Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I have 20 Years’ of experience in the architectural field. I studied at the University of Pretoria, then worked and travelled abroad to London in the UK on social housing for 2 years.
I then went on to establish my own female based company, Veld Architects.
How would you describe your personal design style?
Contemporary, proudly South African, regenerative, and sustainable.
Where does your design inspiration come from?
Nature and the context. My clients also provide inspiration for projects.
In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Regenerative, and in our African context, collaborative with artisanal development.
Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2020 and beyond.
Regenerative
Multi- functional
Collaborative
Passive
Paradigm shift in the age old design mindset
If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?
Be considerate to the environment, and keep the design appropriate to the context as well as practical in terms of function.
How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?
These awards create an opportunity for the world to see our work on our continent and how we approach design appropriate to our context, which can inform both others and ourselves.
What projects are you currently working on?
A residential home in Monaghan farm, amongst other residential projects.
What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
To develop more regenerative approaches to our design and create a Veld Lifestyle brand.
Final thoughts:
Tell us a little more about yourself and your daily inspirations…
I love nature – I start every day horse riding, I own a beautiful Chestnut gelding called Integrity. He brings me close to nature and sets my tone in design for the days. I love leading my team and brainstorming with them. I love empowering students to enable them to fulfil their career potential in our design field in South Africa.
Your most treasured possession? My horse, Integrity
Your favourite holiday destination? Anything to do with private hideaways
Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar? Restaurant Mosaic, the food is wow! Bar, Saints. I am not so much into hotels, I love private spots that bring me close to nature.
Your favourite book & song? Anything by Prime Circle or Watershed. Book, the choice: Edith Eger
Your favourite food and drink? Niksnaks and champagne
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? Sitting around a table with my family & friends enjoying good food and conversations.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? Trend forecaster
Veld Architects have been shortlisted for Residential Architectural Property Award and Glasshouse Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2020.
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