
// 28°45′
"Imagine a space that actually changes how people move, think, feel."
"Imagine a space that actually changes how people move, think, feel."
TOTAL CONSTRUCTION VALUE DELIVERED
TOTAL CONSTRUCTION VALUE DELIVERED
TOTAL CONSTRUCTION VALUE DELIVERED
// 35.30″ S
// 24°45′
For when it has to be right.
For when it has to be right.
OUR TIME
GMT+2, South-Africa
From first principle to final form.
we observe
we observe
we imagine
we interpret
we create
we design
beautiful things
what works
we listen
we interpret
we create
beautiful things
we listen
we imagine
we design
beautiful things
we listen
we imagine
we create
we make space


PERFORMANCE
The proof behind our work
—— From first launches to lasting collaborations, we’re trusted to deliver on time and at quality.

PERFORMANCE
The proof behind our work
—— From first launches to lasting collaborations, we’re trusted to deliver on time and at quality.

PERFORMANCE
The proof behind our work
—— From first launches to lasting collaborations, we’re trusted to deliver on time and at quality.

PROJECTS SHIPPED
//001
REPEAT COLLABORATIONS
//002
INDUSTRY AWARDS
//003
WORK FROM REFERRALS
// 004
Brands who are part of our success story
What we do best, and what your next project needs most.
What we do best, and what your next project needs most.
What we do best, and what your next project needs most.
CORE ARCH
/0
1
Architectural Design

You've been in buildings that feel wrong. Notice what happens when someone finally gets it right.Concept to council submission - designed around how you actually live. Flow that makes sense, proportions that feel right. Every decision answers one question: how will this feel to be inside?
+
Concept generation & Form-finding
+
Spatial planning & Layouts
+
3D Visualization & VR
+
Council submission drawings
+
Detailed design development
CORE ARCH
/0
1
Architectural Design

You've been in buildings that feel wrong. Notice what happens when someone finally gets it right.Concept to council submission - designed around how you actually live. Flow that makes sense, proportions that feel right. Every decision answers one question: how will this feel to be inside?
+
Concept generation & Form-finding
+
Spatial planning & Layouts
+
3D Visualization & VR
+
Council submission drawings
+
Detailed design development
CORE ARCH
/0
1
Architectural Design

You've been in buildings that feel wrong. Notice what happens when someone finally gets it right.Concept to council submission - designed around how you actually live. Flow that makes sense, proportions that feel right. Every decision answers one question: how will this feel to be inside?
+
Concept generation & Form-finding
+
Spatial planning & Layouts
+
3D Visualization & VR
+
Council submission drawings
+
Detailed design development
CONSORTIUM
/0
2
Turnkey Solutions

One point of contact. One team. No chasing consultants, no crossed wires, no project drift. We coordinate every specialist under one roof so you can focus on the outcome, not the orchestra.
+
Professional team assembly
+
Single point of responsibility
+
Engineer & specialist coordination
+
Budget & cost management
+
Streamlined project delivery
CONSORTIUM
/0
2
Turnkey Solutions

One point of contact. One team. No chasing consultants, no crossed wires, no project drift. We coordinate every specialist under one roof so you can focus on the outcome, not the orchestra.
+
Professional team assembly
+
Single point of responsibility
+
Engineer & specialist coordination
+
Budget & cost management
+
Streamlined project delivery
CONSORTIUM
/0
2
Turnkey Solutions

One point of contact. One team. No chasing consultants, no crossed wires, no project drift. We coordinate every specialist under one roof so you can focus on the outcome, not the orchestra.
+
Professional team assembly
+
Single point of responsibility
+
Engineer & specialist coordination
+
Budget & cost management
+
Streamlined project delivery
STRATEGY
/0
3
Feasibility Study

Nothing derails a project faster than discovering a zoning restriction after you've already fallen in love with the design. We audit the site, the regulations, and the real constraints upfront—so you know exactly what's possible before a single line is drawn.
+
Zoning & Regulation analysis
+
Site audits & topographic surveys
+
Environmental context study
+
Investment feasibility checks
+
Bulk & location diagrams
STRATEGY
/0
3
Feasibility Study

Nothing derails a project faster than discovering a zoning restriction after you've already fallen in love with the design. We audit the site, the regulations, and the real constraints upfront—so you know exactly what's possible before a single line is drawn.
+
Zoning & Regulation analysis
+
Site audits & topographic surveys
+
Environmental context study
+
Investment feasibility checks
+
Bulk & location diagrams
STRATEGY
/0
3
Feasibility Study

Nothing derails a project faster than discovering a zoning restriction after you've already fallen in love with the design. We audit the site, the regulations, and the real constraints upfront—so you know exactly what's possible before a single line is drawn.
+
Zoning & Regulation analysis
+
Site audits & topographic surveys
+
Environmental context study
+
Investment feasibility checks
+
Bulk & location diagrams
DOCUMENTATION
/0
4
Technical Detailing

This is where designs get lost—in the gap between what you approved and what actually gets built. Our technical documentation leaves nothing to interpretation. Every junction, every material, every detail is specified so contractors build what you signed off on, not their own version of it.
+
Construction working drawings
+
Technical specifications
+
Door, window & finish schedules
+
Joinery & detail design
+
SANS 10400 compliance
DOCUMENTATION
/0
4
Technical Detailing

This is where designs get lost—in the gap between what you approved and what actually gets built. Our technical documentation leaves nothing to interpretation. Every junction, every material, every detail is specified so contractors build what you signed off on, not their own version of it.
+
Construction working drawings
+
Technical specifications
+
Door, window & finish schedules
+
Joinery & detail design
+
SANS 10400 compliance
DOCUMENTATION
/0
4
Technical Detailing

This is where designs get lost—in the gap between what you approved and what actually gets built. Our technical documentation leaves nothing to interpretation. Every junction, every material, every detail is specified so contractors build what you signed off on, not their own version of it.
+
Construction working drawings
+
Technical specifications
+
Door, window & finish schedules
+
Joinery & detail design
+
SANS 10400 compliance
INTERIORS
/0
5
Interior Architecture

Too many buildings feel like two different projects—bold exterior, generic interior. We design both as one. The same material logic, the same intent, carried through to every surface, fixture, and piece of joinery. No disconnect.
+
Material palette curation
+
Bespoke joinery design
+
Lighting layout & selection
+
Kitchen & bathroom detailing
+
Furniture selection & styling
INTERIORS
/0
5
Interior Architecture

Too many buildings feel like two different projects—bold exterior, generic interior. We design both as one. The same material logic, the same intent, carried through to every surface, fixture, and piece of joinery. No disconnect.
+
Material palette curation
+
Bespoke joinery design
+
Lighting layout & selection
+
Kitchen & bathroom detailing
+
Furniture selection & styling
INTERIORS
/0
5
Interior Architecture

Too many buildings feel like two different projects—bold exterior, generic interior. We design both as one. The same material logic, the same intent, carried through to every surface, fixture, and piece of joinery. No disconnect.
+
Material palette curation
+
Bespoke joinery design
+
Lighting layout & selection
+
Kitchen & bathroom detailing
+
Furniture selection & styling
EXECUTION
/0
6
Principal Agency

As Principal Agent, we represent your interests through construction. We administer the contract, monitor site progress, and ensure quality control—so the build delivers on what the drawings promised.
+
Contract administration (JBCC)
+
Site inspections & quality control
+
Payment certificate valuation
+
Dispute resolution
+
Final completion management
EXECUTION
/0
6
Principal Agency

As Principal Agent, we represent your interests through construction. We administer the contract, monitor site progress, and ensure quality control—so the build delivers on what the drawings promised.
+
Contract administration (JBCC)
+
Site inspections & quality control
+
Payment certificate valuation
+
Dispute resolution
+
Final completion management
EXECUTION
/0
6
Principal Agency

As Principal Agent, we represent your interests through construction. We administer the contract, monitor site progress, and ensure quality control—so the build delivers on what the drawings promised.
+
Contract administration (JBCC)
+
Site inspections & quality control
+
Payment certificate valuation
+
Dispute resolution
+
Final completion management
HOW WE WORK
The process behind our success
—— We work with clarity, precision. Every step designed to move your project forward with confidence.

HOW WE WORK
The process behind our success
—— We work with clarity, precision. Every step designed to move your project forward with confidence.

HOW WE WORK
The process behind our success
—— We work with clarity, precision. Every step designed to move your project forward with confidence.




Services built on process, precision, and people.
We combine strategy, design, content, and technology, giving you a single partner for every stage of your brand’s growth.
//01
BRIEF
We listen before we draw. Site constraints, budget, vision — everything gets mapped so your project starts on solid ground.
//02
CONCEPT
Ideas take shape. We explore spatial solutions, test design options, and lock in a direction that balances form, function, and feasibility.
//03
DOCUMENTATION
Construction-ready drawings, specs, and schedules. Our documentation is precise, coordinated, and built to keep your project on budget and on time.
//04
DELIVERY
From tender to handover, we manage the build. Site visits, contractor coordination, and quality control — until you get the keys.
Services built on process, precision, and people.
We combine strategy, design, content, and technology, giving you a single partner for every stage of your brand’s growth.
//01
BRIEF
We listen before we draw. Site constraints, budget, vision — everything gets mapped so your project starts on solid ground.
//02
CONCEPT
Ideas take shape. We explore spatial solutions, test design options, and lock in a direction that balances form, function, and feasibility.
//03
DOCUMENTATION
Construction-ready drawings, specs, and schedules. Our documentation is precise, coordinated, and built to keep your project on budget and on time.
//04
DELIVERY
From tender to handover, we manage the build. Site visits, contractor coordination, and quality control — until you get the keys.
Services built on process, precision, and people.
We combine strategy, design, content, and technology, giving you a single partner for every stage of your brand’s growth.
//01
BRIEF
We listen before we draw. Site constraints, budget, vision — everything gets mapped so your project starts on solid ground.
//02
CONCEPT
Ideas take shape. We explore spatial solutions, test design options, and lock in a direction that balances form, function, and feasibility.
//03
DOCUMENTATION
Construction-ready drawings, specs, and schedules. Our documentation is precise, coordinated, and built to keep your project on budget and on time.
//04
DELIVERY
From tender to handover, we manage the build. Site visits, contractor coordination, and quality control — until you get the keys.
Step inside one of our featured projects. From first brief to launch, follow the process that shows what makes Create® different.
Our process in motion
Explore a real case where strategy, design, and delivery lined up exactly as we work today.
Step inside one of our featured projects. From first brief to launch, follow the process that shows what makes Create® different.
Our process in motion
Explore a real case where strategy, design, and delivery lined up exactly as we work today.
WHY CHOOSE US
Designed to Make Your Life Easier
—— Clear process, quick reviews, and a clean launch at the end. We keep the steps simple so projects never get stuck.

WHY CHOOSE US
Designed to Make Your Life Easier
—— Clear process, quick reviews, and a clean launch at the end. We keep the steps simple so projects never get stuck.

WHY CHOOSE US
Designed to Make Your Life Easier
—— Clear process, quick reviews, and a clean launch at the end. We keep the steps simple so projects never get stuck.

we listen.
we imagine.
we create.
Ideas
that start with you
we listen.
we imagine.
we create.
Ideas
that start with you
we listen.
we imagine.
we create.
Ideas
that start with you
Delivery You Can Count On
3D
Visualization in-house
48h
RESPONSE TIME
94%
PROJECTS ON BUDGET
97%
ON-TIME COMPLETION
4.8/5 (22 reviews)
Delivery You Can Count On
3D
Visualization in-house
48h
RESPONSE TIME
94%
PROJECTS ON BUDGET
97%
ON-TIME COMPLETION
4.8/5 (22 reviews)
Delivery You Can Count On
3D
Visualization in-house
48h
RESPONSE TIME
94%
PROJECTS ON BUDGET
97%
ON-TIME COMPLETION
4.8/5 (22 reviews)
Design that respects your budget.
Smart solutions that don't cut corners on quality.

Every rand works harder
from day one.
Design that respects your budget.
Smart solutions that don't cut corners on quality.

Every rand works harder
from day one.
Design that respects your budget.
Smart solutions that don't cut corners on quality.

Every rand works harder
from day one.
Simple Pricing
Plans that scale with your project and give you room for unlimited creative opportunities.

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
Pick a plan that grows with you and keeps creative costs predictable.
Simple Pricing
Plans that scale with your project and give you room for unlimited creative opportunities.

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
Pick a plan that grows with you and keeps creative costs predictable.
Simple Pricing
Plans that scale with your project and give you room for unlimited creative opportunities.

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Core
For residential projects 100-450sqm

Studio
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects

Scale
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
Pick a plan that grows with you and keeps creative costs predictable.
Built for the long run
With You Beyond Launch
Ongoing support
Long-term partnership
Future-ready builds
Built for the long run
With You Beyond Launch
Ongoing support
Long-term partnership
Future-ready builds
Built for the long run
With You Beyond Launch
Ongoing support
Long-term partnership
Future-ready builds
Quick intro call, no strings attached.
Let's chat or just say hello.
Next Availability


PRICING
Plans built to fit your next project
—— Designed around your specs, each plan gives you clarity on scope, features, and cost so you can move forward with confidence.

PRICING
Plans built to fit your next project
—— Designed around your specs, each plan gives you clarity on scope, features, and cost so you can move forward with confidence.

PRICING
Plans built to fit your next project
—— Designed around your specs, each plan gives you clarity on scope, features, and cost so you can move forward with confidence.

Core
Starter Plan
For residential projects 100-450sqm
For residential projects 100-450sqm
From R450/sqm
/project

Clear, predictable pricing for smaller projects that still demand quality design.
Concept design & working drawings
Municipal submission package
4 design revision rounds
3 exterior visualization renders
Email & phone support
Final construction documentation
Final handoff files
+
Fixed scope, no surprise fees
+
Direct architect access
+
Municipal approval support
Timeline
6-10 weeks
01
Studio
Advanced Plan
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects
10-12% of construction cost
/project

Full-service architecture for clients who want a building they'll love for decades, not just approve once.
Everything in Core, plus:
Full interior architectural detailing
Extensive design revisions
Premium 3D rendering package
Regular site visits & contractor liaison
Material & finishes consultation
Dedicated project manager
+
Deeper design coverage for complex needs
+
Your vision, executed flawlessly
+
Priority scheduling & support
Timeline
12-16 weeks
02
Scale
Growth Plan
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
By proposal
/project

Turnkey architecture for projects that become landmarks. We coordinate the full team—you get the keys.
Full professional team coordination
Quantity surveyor & cost management
Structural, electrical & mechanical consultants
Contractor tender process management
Full project duration support
Priority scheduling & rapid response
Photorealistic visualization suite
+
Limited availability—by application only
+
Feasibility through occupation certificate
+
Developments from R50M and above
Timeline
6-18 months (project dependent)
03
Core
Starter Plan
For residential projects 100-450sqm
For residential projects 100-450sqm
From R450/sqm
/project

Clear, predictable pricing for smaller projects that still demand quality design.
Concept design & working drawings
Municipal submission package
4 design revision rounds
3 exterior visualization renders
Email & phone support
Final construction documentation
Final handoff files
+
Fixed scope, no surprise fees
+
Direct architect access
+
Municipal approval support
Timeline
6-10 weeks
Studio
Advanced Plan
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects
10-12% of construction cost
/project

Full-service architecture for clients who want a building they'll love for decades, not just approve once.
Everything in Core, plus:
Full interior architectural detailing
Extensive design revisions
Premium 3D rendering package
Regular site visits & contractor liaison
Material & finishes consultation
Dedicated project manager
+
Deeper design coverage for complex needs
+
Your vision, executed flawlessly
+
Priority scheduling & support
Timeline
12-16 weeks
Scale
Growth Plan
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
By proposal
/project

Turnkey architecture for projects that become landmarks. We coordinate the full team—you get the keys.
Full professional team coordination
Quantity surveyor & cost management
Structural, electrical & mechanical consultants
Contractor tender process management
Full project duration support
Priority scheduling & rapid response
Photorealistic visualization suite
+
Limited availability—by application only
+
Feasibility through occupation certificate
+
Developments from R50M and above
Timeline
6-18 months (project dependent)
Core
Starter Plan
For residential projects 100-450sqm
For residential projects 100-450sqm
From R450/sqm
/project

Clear, predictable pricing for smaller projects that still demand quality design.
Concept design & working drawings
Municipal submission package
4 design revision rounds
3 exterior visualization renders
Email & phone support
Final construction documentation
Final handoff files
+
Fixed scope, no surprise fees
+
Direct architect access
+
Municipal approval support
Timeline
6-10 weeks
01
Studio
Advanced Plan
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects
For custom homes and boutique commercial projects
10-12% of construction cost
/project

Full-service architecture for clients who want a building they'll love for decades, not just approve once.
Everything in Core, plus:
Full interior architectural detailing
Extensive design revisions
Premium 3D rendering package
Regular site visits & contractor liaison
Material & finishes consultation
Dedicated project manager
+
Deeper design coverage for complex needs
+
Your vision, executed flawlessly
+
Priority scheduling & support
Timeline
12-16 weeks
02
Scale
Growth Plan
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
For developments, commercial & institutional projects
By proposal
/project

Turnkey architecture for projects that become landmarks. We coordinate the full team—you get the keys.
Full professional team coordination
Quantity surveyor & cost management
Structural, electrical & mechanical consultants
Contractor tender process management
Full project duration support
Priority scheduling & rapid response
Photorealistic visualization suite
+
Limited availability—by application only
+
Feasibility through occupation certificate
+
Developments from R50M and above
Timeline
6-18 months (project dependent)
03
Ask our expert
Schedule a quick call, and we’ll walk you through our flexible plans.

George Schoonraad

George Schoonraad



THE TEAM
The details you'll feel but can't explain.
—— Every project gets this team. Every detail gets this attention.

THE TEAM
The details you'll feel but can't explain.
—— Every project gets this team. Every detail gets this attention.

THE TEAM
The details you'll feel but can't explain.
—— Every project gets this team. Every detail gets this attention.

Our leadership team involved from first kickoff to final delivery.
Every milestone checked, every detail reviewed, every client kept in the loop. That’s how projects land sharp and on time.
Discover team Makespace®
Meet the people, culture, and energy that keep our work sharp and our days fun.
Discover team Makespace®
Meet the people, culture, and energy that keep our work sharp and our days fun.
FAQ
Clearing doubts and concerns
—— Explore the most common questions about working with Makespace, all in one place.
FAQ
Clearing doubts and concerns
—— Explore the most common questions about working with Makespace, all in one place.

FAQ
Clearing doubts and concerns
—— Explore the most common questions about working with Makespace, all in one place.

Book a quick chat and we’ll walk you through how we do things.

Chris Langeveldt
What kind of projects does Makespace take on?
"Residential new builds, renovations, and commercial projects—from R2M garage conversions to R50M+ developments. If it needs SACAP registration and municipal approval, we handle it."
How much does it cost to build with an architect?
"Our fees run 8-12% of construction cost depending on complexity. Construction rates in 2025 range from R8,000/sqm (basic) to R25,000+/sqm (luxury). We'll give you realistic numbers in your first consultation—no surprises."
Do I actually need an architect, or can I use a draughtsman?
"Depends on complexity. Simple additions? A draughtsman works. But if you're building new, on a slope, in a heritage area, or want design input—not just drawings—you need an architect. We carry liability. We solve problems before they cost you money."
What's a realistic project timeline?
"Design: 8-12 weeks. Municipal approval: 2-4 months (sometimes longer—councils are unpredictable). Construction: 6-12 months depending on size. We'll map your specific timeline in the first meeting."
Why do plans get rejected by the municipality?
"Zoning violations, building line encroachments, energy non-compliance (SANS 10400-XA), neighbour objections, or incomplete documentation. We've navigated every rejection reason there is. Our job is to get it right the first time."
What are the hidden costs most people miss?
"Soil testing. Engineer fees. Municipal connection charges. NHBRC enrollment. Surveyor costs. These 'soft costs' add 20-30% to your construction budget. We flag all of them upfront so your budget reflects reality."
Can you design for load shedding and water security?
"Yes—and we recommend it. Solar integration, battery backup, borehole planning, rainwater harvesting, greywater systems. We design these into the architecture from day one, not as ugly afterthoughts."
Who will I actually be working with?
"You'll work directly with our principals—George and Chris. No handoff to juniors. The people you meet are the people who design and manage your project. One point of contact, start to finish."
Should I renovate or build new?
"Buying/renovating is 20-30% cheaper upfront. But building new avoids Transfer Duty, comes with a 5-year NHBRC warranty, and means zero inherited problems. We'll help you run the numbers for your specific situation."
What kind of projects does Makespace take on?
"Residential new builds, renovations, and commercial projects—from R2M garage conversions to R50M+ developments. If it needs SACAP registration and municipal approval, we handle it."
How much does it cost to build with an architect?
"Our fees run 8-12% of construction cost depending on complexity. Construction rates in 2025 range from R8,000/sqm (basic) to R25,000+/sqm (luxury). We'll give you realistic numbers in your first consultation—no surprises."
Do I actually need an architect, or can I use a draughtsman?
"Depends on complexity. Simple additions? A draughtsman works. But if you're building new, on a slope, in a heritage area, or want design input—not just drawings—you need an architect. We carry liability. We solve problems before they cost you money."
What's a realistic project timeline?
"Design: 8-12 weeks. Municipal approval: 2-4 months (sometimes longer—councils are unpredictable). Construction: 6-12 months depending on size. We'll map your specific timeline in the first meeting."
Why do plans get rejected by the municipality?
"Zoning violations, building line encroachments, energy non-compliance (SANS 10400-XA), neighbour objections, or incomplete documentation. We've navigated every rejection reason there is. Our job is to get it right the first time."
What are the hidden costs most people miss?
"Soil testing. Engineer fees. Municipal connection charges. NHBRC enrollment. Surveyor costs. These 'soft costs' add 20-30% to your construction budget. We flag all of them upfront so your budget reflects reality."
Can you design for load shedding and water security?
"Yes—and we recommend it. Solar integration, battery backup, borehole planning, rainwater harvesting, greywater systems. We design these into the architecture from day one, not as ugly afterthoughts."
Who will I actually be working with?
"You'll work directly with our principals—George and Chris. No handoff to juniors. The people you meet are the people who design and manage your project. One point of contact, start to finish."
Should I renovate or build new?
"Buying/renovating is 20-30% cheaper upfront. But building new avoids Transfer Duty, comes with a 5-year NHBRC warranty, and means zero inherited problems. We'll help you run the numbers for your specific situation."
What kind of projects does Makespace take on?
"Residential new builds, renovations, and commercial projects—from R2M garage conversions to R50M+ developments. If it needs SACAP registration and municipal approval, we handle it."
How much does it cost to build with an architect?
"Our fees run 8-12% of construction cost depending on complexity. Construction rates in 2025 range from R8,000/sqm (basic) to R25,000+/sqm (luxury). We'll give you realistic numbers in your first consultation—no surprises."
Do I actually need an architect, or can I use a draughtsman?
"Depends on complexity. Simple additions? A draughtsman works. But if you're building new, on a slope, in a heritage area, or want design input—not just drawings—you need an architect. We carry liability. We solve problems before they cost you money."
What's a realistic project timeline?
"Design: 8-12 weeks. Municipal approval: 2-4 months (sometimes longer—councils are unpredictable). Construction: 6-12 months depending on size. We'll map your specific timeline in the first meeting."
Why do plans get rejected by the municipality?
"Zoning violations, building line encroachments, energy non-compliance (SANS 10400-XA), neighbour objections, or incomplete documentation. We've navigated every rejection reason there is. Our job is to get it right the first time."
What are the hidden costs most people miss?
"Soil testing. Engineer fees. Municipal connection charges. NHBRC enrollment. Surveyor costs. These 'soft costs' add 20-30% to your construction budget. We flag all of them upfront so your budget reflects reality."
Can you design for load shedding and water security?
"Yes—and we recommend it. Solar integration, battery backup, borehole planning, rainwater harvesting, greywater systems. We design these into the architecture from day one, not as ugly afterthoughts."
Who will I actually be working with?
"You'll work directly with our principals—George and Chris. No handoff to juniors. The people you meet are the people who design and manage your project. One point of contact, start to finish."
Should I renovate or build new?
"Buying/renovating is 20-30% cheaper upfront. But building new avoids Transfer Duty, comes with a 5-year NHBRC warranty, and means zero inherited problems. We'll help you run the numbers for your specific situation."
Do you still have questions?
Book a quick chat and we’ll walk you through how we do things.


Lynn Bergmann
Chris Langeveldt
Project Manager
Managing Director

Chris Langeveldt
Managing Director

16 years of doing things differently
Long-term clients. Repeat projects. Architecture that earns trust.
361+ projects delivered
98% on-time launches
96% energy efficiency achieved
Let us inspire your next project

"We listen first, stay transparent, and deliver what we promise.
Every project matters to us."
Wagener Hancke
Founder | Makespace Architects®











