- M A A K - Architectural + Design Solutions - Company Profile - 2016
PROJECT_IDE: In collaboration with Royal College of Art (RCA) and Imperial College London (ICL), - M A A K - studio has developed a unique performance studio that aims to harness its civic presence as a cultural enabler and public custodian. Working to form an urban gateway to adjacent open public space, whilst still supplying space enough for dance rehearsals and theatre productions, this hybrid scheme re-looks at how individuals and the city can collaborate in a mutually beneficial way. PROJECT IS WAITING FOR FINAL FUNDING - M A A K - is an open-minded design studio with an affinity towards using architecture as a vehicle to better influence the lives of ordinary people. Trained in the fields of Architecture, Design, Engineering, and Environmental Consulting, our multi-disciplinary studio aims to harness our expertise in a way that engenders appropriate, open, and beautiful design outputs through built form. Focusing in the public realm, - M A A K - has chosen to concentrate on architecture with a social conscience and is interested in how this can manifest on both a personal and a public capacity. Seeking creative solutions to better influence our cities and their people, we maintain an open and collaborative approach that engages in all aspects of design. If to think, to design, and to create are all actions, then - M A A K - is fundamentally about doing. Freed from the confines of the drawing board and the limits of a computer screen, the projects we are involved in, not only require an intention and a vision, but similarly demand an active and critical engagement with all of the tangible and sensory qualities of what makes things real. In this light, working with individuals and communities - M A A K - sees architecture not only as a means to positive urban development and community upliftment, but similarly as a mode for education, design research, and progressive thinking.
PROJECT_PLP: The Found pavilion explores the layered concepts of discovery and object. Located within a field of vertical timber shafts the pavilion is nestled on site as a hidden gem or object of desire. Forming a regular grid pattern these timber elements collectively act as a dynamic and fluid setting that complements the more grounded and static pavilion component of the scheme. The ephemeral structure activates its surroundings as a social hub, place of contemplation, and as a stage venue. TO BE BUILT IN 2016 - BE OPEN - Architecture is inherently complex and all architectural projects are inherently different. In this light, one needs to see each project a new, and in doing so, one needs to engage with anyone and everyone who will help one better understand all of its complexities. - BE PROGRESSIVE - Always be better than ones precedent. - BE APPROPRIATE - Find a mutual intersection between the vision of the architect and the needs of its user (this is the challenge of good design). - BE BEAUTIFUL - If we as architects are contributing to the collective aesthetic of a place, it is important to create something that is beautiful, both inside and out.
PROJECT_DTF: Commissioned by the Desmond Tutu Foundation, - M A A K - is developing a research clinic facility in Masipumalele, Noordhoek. By embracing the space around the new building, whilst re-igniting the relationships between an existing clinic and youth centre, the scheme is to become an important public node and dynamic social space within the Desmond Tutu complex and for the nearby community. PROJECT IS WAITING COUNCIL APPROVAL GEORGINA CAMPBELL was born and educated in South Africa, completing her mechanical Engineering degree at the University of Cape Town (UCT) before moving to London in order to pursue her Masters in Sustainable Environmental Design at the Architectural Association (AA). As a means to further pursue her interest in built form and its potential positive influence within developing economies, she returned to Cape Town where she worked in sustainable design consulting. Georgina views the establishment of - M A A K - as an opportunity to tangibly improve the lives of others through thoughtful and appropriate design. ASHLEIGH KILLA was educated in Cape Town and completed her Masters in Architecture at UCT. She is a promoter of experimental processes and play, and is fascinated by unfamiliar and irregular circumstances. Her thesis, centered around a new hybrid space for contextually appropriate retailing, sought to bring the contrasting realms of informal and formal shopping together. She sees - M A A K - as an extension of her interests and an opportunity to build publicness. MAX MELVILL was educated in South Africa, completing his Masters in Architecture at UCT. Interested in the inherent link between people and architecture Max has always kept a keen interest in public works and how built form can be used to foster human development on both an individual and community scale. Max helped found the - M A A K - studio as a way putting these ideas into practice.
PROJECT_TBT: Understanding public movement routes as concentrations of both people and economic opportunities, this multi-use scheme at the Mowbray Public Transport Interchange, Cape Town, created a bustling urban node, which reinforced existing programme in the area and transformed a mundane, hostile environment into a dignified, interesting place for consumers and commuters alike. RESEARCH PROJECT ARCHITECTURE Primarily interested in how architecture can be used to better influence the lives of ordinary people, - M A A K - offers comprehensive spatial solutions across all scales and all programs. Our work and services incorporate all the necessary stages (concept to construction) needed to design and build world-class buildings DESIGN Trained across many disciplines, the - M A A K - studio team is capable of creatively engaging in a wide range of different projects, ideas and briefs. Despite architecture being one of our main passions, we are not limited to it. RESEARCH We see the act of doing as a means to progressive and active design research. Engaging across the board on a variety of unique projects, contexts, and outcomes, our research capabilities incorporate urban, human, and noncorporeal subject matters.