GAPP were recently invited to submit a proposal in a competition call to reimagine the Arts & Social Sciences Building at Stellenbosch University - although a more modern building than most at the university (now 40 years old), the building and it`s location are deeply rooted in the town’s cultural and academic life.
Our proposal set out to also create an environment that is welcoming, inclusive and accessible to all, while honoring the heritage and timeless character of Stellenbosch. Through thoughtful, contextually sensitive design, we envisioned a building that not only supports learning and collaboration but also reflects the spirit and academic mission of the university itself.
GAPP were runners-up, but it was a valuable and rewarding experience to engage with a project situated within the University of Stellenbosch - allowing us to apply our thinking within the university’s framework and in response to its rich cultural and contextual setting.
1 - Proposed Façade Design
2 - Sketch: Entrance Interface to Reyneveld Street
3 - Sketch: Sections (Existing and Proposed)
4 & 5 - North and South Elevations
6 & 7- Facade Renders
8 & 9 – Facade Renders
Happy World Sustainability Day!
We’re proud to highlight three GAPP projects that embody innovation and environmental responsibility.
Slides 1- 3
Project: Brackenfell Nature Reserve
Cape Town
2022 - on-going
The Bracken Nature Reserve stands as a beacon of conservation and renewal. Once a quarry site, its renosterveld fynbos has been beautifully restored. At its heart lies the Bracken Visitor Education Centre - a 120-seat venue blending restored historical structures with sustainable, industrial-style design. Natural light, efficient fittings, and smart systems like motion-sensor lighting and rainwater harvesting reduce energy and water use, showcasing true eco-conscious innovation. With a focus on healthy indoor environments and green mobility options, the centre embodies sustainability inside and out. Recently awarded a 5-Star Green Building Design Rating, this milestone celebrates a future driven by conservation, architecture, and sustainable design.
Slides 4- 6
Project: UCT Lecture Theatre
Cape Town
2016
UCT’s new lecture theatre sets a benchmark for excellence, sustainability, and inclusivity. Located on Upper Campus, the 400-seat facility blends seamlessly into the historic landscape, featuring natural zinc roofing that’s durable, low-maintenance, and fully recyclable. Sustainability is built into every detail, from Virginia creepers that provide natural shading to smart systems like automated windows, motion-sensor lighting, and rainwater harvesting. Earning a 4-Star Green Building Certification, UCT joins NMMU as one of South Africa’s only universities with an accredited green building - a proud step toward a more sustainable and inclusive future.
Slides 7- 9
Project: SARETC
Cape Town
2013 - 2014
Designed as a hub for innovation and collaboration, the Renewable Energy Centre at CPUT drives research, training, and industry partnerships in solar and wind power. The facility features a full-sized nacelle wind turbine, blade repair lab, training tower, and solar laboratory with a dedicated roof deck for hands-on learning. A true catalyst for sustainable progress, the Centre champions renewable energy education and innovation across South Africa.
Looks like someone’s on the mark- literally! Congrats to Mark Mohan for smashing our in-house Revit assessment with a top score of 93.10%. Revit goals unlocked!
#GAPP
A week later and we’re still inspired! Thank you to everyone who joined us for Open Studios 2025 - what an incredible evening of creativity, conversation, and community.
@openstudiosza
@klaysouthafrica
@duravit
@corobrikza
Padel’s having a moment - and so is good design. Check out our Fig Tree Farm Padel Courts project, where the two come together beautifully.
Hillcrest | Durban
Date | 2024
#GAPP
Another successful Open Studios! A huge thank you to @openstudios and everyone who stopped by to visit our studios - we loved sharing our space and work with you. Can’t wait to welcome you all back next year!
And a special thank you to our sponsors and collaborators!
@duravit
@klaysouthafrica
@corobrikza
Open Studios 2025 is just around the corner! We’re reminiscing on last year’s event and can’t wait to welcome you back for another evening of creativity, connection, and conversation. Join us as we open our studios on Thursday, 16 October.
When / 16 October 2025
Time / 5 - 8pm
Where /160 Sir Lowry Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town (Studio 304, 3rd floor - the Armoury, Buchanan Square)
We can’t wait to see you there!
We’re opening our doors for Open Studio 2025!
Join us at our Cape Town studio for an evening of design, creativity, and conversation. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the projects shaping our built environment and see how ideas come to life, from concept to reality.
When / 16 October 2025
Time / 5 - 8pm
Where / 160 Sir Lowry Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town (Studio 304, 3rd floor - the Armoury, Buchanan Square)
See you there!
#openstudiosza #GAPP
