Inspired by a childhood vision, David Baker of Baker and Partners brings a European sensibility to modern South African architecture.
Is it possible that architecture runs in the blood? “When I was eight years old, my father stopped outside the Union Buildings in Pretoria and told me that it had been designed by a relative of ours – Sir Herbert Baker,” says David Baker. “The purity of that design struck a chord and, from that day, I wanted to be an architect.”
David worked and studied in the UK for five years, returning to SA with an architectural degree. He was then involved in the design of Moses Mabhida Stadium and King Shaka International Airport.
He brought back invaluable experience, planning small spaces that required ruthless efficiency. “My many visits to European cities opened my eyes to the possibilities of great design innovations.”
It’s this inspiration that informs Baker and Partners’ signature style – blending the best of traditional and contemporary for the ultimate fusion. “There’s huge scope for good design in SA and we hope to be one of the few firms that get it right,” says David.
Baker and Partners are also “green” architects, who are constantly striving to create environmentally-friendly homes and commercial properties across SA. Added to this, the company has its own in-house construction team. This ensures accurate cost control and convenience for the client, who has only one team to deal with. “We pride ourselves on getting plans approved quickly, with rapid turnaround time from our side, and this is continued on site, where efficient building management gets the project completed on time and within budget.”
“I am so inspired by South Africa and our lifestyle,” says David. “I am passionate about creating homes that reflect that. My six-year-old son loves drawing and already has an eye for detail. Perhaps architecture really does run in the blood!
082 0562029
david@bakerandpartners.co.za
www.bakerandpartners.co.za