ROOT Architecture, Architect in Observatory WC

ROOT Architecture – notable architects in Cape Town, South Africa – is positioned in the commercial architecture arena. Our service covers a broad spectrum of architectural fields of expertise which includes, amongst others, architectural design and project management for civic buildings and related amenities, commercial and industrial buildings, mixed use developments, as well as private residences.

We have distinct experience which gives us a head start in terms of designing projects of this nature.

At the same time we place a strong emphasis on our rapport with people and a focus on the culture of our clients which defines who they are. This serves as a starting point to ensure that the designs we do are innovative, in harmony with our clients’ way of life, to the letter of their requirements, and beyond their expectations.

Our strategic location in Cape Town, South Africa, gives us as architects an ideal position from where we provide a service to the rest of Africa, and further afield.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should a customer hire you over another service provider?

An imaginative, sustainable and long-term approach is required for the planning and constructing of buildings. These same values also guide ROOT Architecture and integrate with our methodology in the work that we as architects do. At ROOT Architecture we view the building site, its history and its context as the “root” and starting point of the architectural process. From this, all design principles and processes follow to create a cohesive vision for a building project. But, apart from being functional structures to live or work in, buildings, for us, are manifestations of societies’ cultural identities and, where possible, should portray these cultures in a physical form. We, therefore, make it our business to engage with our clients on a personal level to truly understand their heritage, values, beliefs and way of life to be able to match our designs with what is of deeper importance to them. And, in the case where the client is not necessarily the end-user – for example in mixed-use developments – we take our approach one step further to make sure that what we do, will comply with the expectations of those who will be occupying the buildings. We, furthermore, believe in transparency from beginning to end in what we do.

What experience, skills, qualifications or training do you have to make you the right person for the job?

Kunal is a registered professional architect with over 10 years’ experience in the architectural services industry. He studied and started his career in Australia. He more recently, moved to Cape Town to bring his passion for architecture back to Africa, and to offer his skills to this continent where his roots are. Kunal’s energetic and imaginative approach to architecture enabled him to work on a number of project types from multi-residential developments, to institutional, community, aquatics and recreation buildings. In this regard he enjoys working with developers wanting to unlock the full potential of a building site with an eye toward adding value to benefit the wider community. He is an outgoing and compassionate person who enjoys realising his dreams and help others to do the same. He is happy when he’s dealing with people and communities, when talking to strangers, and when coming across an unexpected song along the way! He believes in making a difference in the lives of others.

Is there a particular aspect of your trade or industry that you specialise in?

ROOT Architecture focuses on commercial development projects, aquatic projects and community projects.

How do you normally charge for your service?

Services are charged in line with SACAP's (South African Council for the Architectural Profession) guidelines as well as consideration for the specific client's requirements.

What makes your pricing competitive?

We are a small team of architects and draughtspeople that use BIM (Building Information Managament), Online Tech Services and ensure we have low overheads. Compared to the larger firms out there we are smaller and more agile which makes our prices more competitive.

Are there any special offers you would like to offer to Uptasker customers?

We offer a free 40 minute consultation for your project. This comes in the form of a Google or Zoom meeting where we discuss your requirements. This is followed up by a needs and options report which outlines what you want to do and some options on how you can do it.

How can a customer save money before you start the work? Please give 3 tips

1. Set a realistic budget for your project. Even if its a rough figure, it's better to have an idea of what you can afford so the architect can tell you straight away if its possible or not. 2. Call your local council and find out if you can do what you want to do. 3. Apply to your local council for the existing drawings of your property. You can save up to 3 weeks waiting time if this is done early.

What are the typical things that you need to know before you can provide a quote to a customer?

1. What is your budget; 2. Do you have existing plans for your property? 3. What is the outcome you are looking for -economical, standard or high end.

Are you an insured business and do you guarantee your work?

We carry Professional Indemnity Insurance.

What questions should a customer ask to hire the right service professional?

A customer should confirm the following items before hiring a professional: 1. Timelines - how long will it take for my project to start/finish construction; 2. Cost - What are your fees based on; 3. Construction Cost - How do you reduce issues on site that end up costing more money than anticipated;

What makes you the most reliable and trustworthy person for the job?

ROOT Architecture offers an all-inclusive service to its clients. By way of a single point of contact approach, we take responsibility for the full spectrum of activities related to a structural project. This releases the client from the burden of having to orchestrate all the aspects of the programme, and it gives them peace of mind, knowing that the execution is in experienced and capable hands. We take pride in developing designs of a discerning nature, and to deliver on time and on budget to the satisfaction of our clients.

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