EARTH TEMPLE ARCHITECTS
Earth Temple Architects was born out of a design ethos which embraces sustainable homes, green buildings and landscape design. The firm seeks to create spaces which are inspired by its landscape, its people, and its heritage. The result of this is a design philosophy which allows for, and encourages, an integrative process where knowledge is both shared and gained.
In seeking to optimize a building’s energy usage and overall sustainability, Earth Temple Architects supports alternative energy systems, identifies local resources and skills, optimizes passive heating and cooling, supports methane production for cooking and heating from sewerage, and integrates permaculture food gardens and medicinal nurseries.
In showing the utmost sensitivity in all respects of our designs, I have collaborated with the Monuments Council of the Western Cape on 4 occasions regarding sites with heritage status. These include the Orange Building in Kalk Bay, The Coach House in Cape Town, and Mount Pleasant and The Old Stables, both in Simonstown. On more remote sites such as the Madikwe Game Reserve, on which I spent 5 years, I consulted and collaborated with the tribal elders of the area as a means to integrate previous architectural forms and materials, producing a design expression which is both relevant and holistic.
Besides the function of architect, I play the role of Project Manager on the majority (approximately 80%) of our sites. As a result, a very hands-on approach to the building process is emphasized.
Earth Temple designs are spec’d in consultation with engineers, who form an integral part in our design processes.
FIRM PROFILE
Earth Temple Architects provides a comprehensive architectural and sustainable design service for residential, commercial and institutional clients. We have earned an impeccable reputation for design, detailing and use of quality natural materials - and for the principals' hands-on involvement in every job. Projects vary in style and scale, but our first priority is always client satisfaction and sustainable design. We encourage client participation in the design process so that they can make informed decisions.
Our process is collaborative and dynamic: we listen carefully to clients' ideas and refine each design until it exceeds all expectations. Then we work hard to protect that vision through to completion of the project. Every phase is fully supported right from first sketch to final touch-ups. With a firm hand on the budget and schedule, we insist on the most appropriate materials and the best construction standards.
Our firm includes the best craftsman in timber, steel and stone from Southern Africa specializing in quality detail work, innovative techniques and design. Earth Temple has an excellent reputation with an array of projects throughout the country. In addition our technical team and artists make every project a complete realistic vision of our innovative design and the client's dream.
