Co-Lab Architects

27/02/2026

Waterlake Hills is taking shape in Pretoria’s beautiful Highveld landscape.

This contemporary residence is carefully positioned to embrace wide skies, warm late-afternoon light, and the calm rhythm of indigenous bushveld planting. Natural stone, off-shutter concrete, timber soffits, and deep overhangs work together to create a refined yet grounded architectural language that feels both modern and timeless.

The approach is simple and intentional. Clean horizontal rooflines float above textured stone walls, while sheltered outdoor living spaces extend the home into the landscape. Indigenous planting, including aloes, structured grasses, and low groundcovers, softens the architecture and anchors it within its setting without overpowering it.

Waterlake Hills continues to be a special project for us. It reflects our commitment to site-responsive design, material honesty, and carefully considered detailing from concept through to visualisation.

Contemporary architecture, rooted in place.

30/01/2026

Co-LAB Architects | Nelspruit | Polokwane | Remote

We are growing, and we are looking for a Senior Architectural Technologist who enjoys turning good design into clear, buildable documentation. You should be confident working in a BIM environment, comfortable coordinating consultants, and proud of neat, accurate technical work.

You will be responsible for:

• Producing high-quality working drawings and detail packs.

• Coordinating consultant drawings and integrating information into the architectural set.

• Preparing council submission packs and responding to approvals comments.

• Managing drawing outputs, revision control, and issue packs.

• Supporting site inspections, technical queries, and contractor coordination.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has solid experience in documentation and detailing.

• Works well under deadlines and can manage priorities independently.

• Communicates clearly with internal teams, consultants, and site teams.

• Is proficient in Archicad and comfortable in a BIM workflow.

• Understands SANS 10400 and local authority processes.

How to apply
Email your CV and portfolio to [email protected]. Please include your notice period and expected salary range.

13/09/2025

Project Spotlight: Corporate Boardroom and Kitchen, Tzaneen, Limpopo

Architecture’s cornerstone is creating spaces for living. Since we spend much of our lives in workplaces, it is vital that these environments are not only effective but also enjoyable.

In many corporate settings, staff are tied to cubicles, often spending lunch breaks in the very same spaces they work in. Creating areas where employees can step outside, take a call, or enjoy an informal coffee break with colleagues is essential for a healthy and engaging work environment.

Our client faced this challenge: staff had nowhere to enjoy lunch or hold quick, informal discussions. This needed to change.

We proposed an addition to their existing boardroom, opening it onto the garden to blur the threshold between inside and outside. A deck with a pergola provides shade against the intense Tzaneen summers while also offering an opportunity to incorporate the company’s logo into an overhead panel system. This transforms a harsh symbol into a playful, multi-layered design element.

The kitchen, once a cramped and enclosed space in the corner, was reimagined. By opening it up and introducing a coffee station into a more dynamic area, we created better flow and encouraged interaction. A new kitchen island anchors the space, serving as both a quick meeting spot and a hub for team lunches—bridging the gap between casual conversation and collaborative work.

Our aim was to design a vibrant, efficient environment where creativity and teamwork can thrive, by improving the very spaces where people spend most of their time.

Feel free to contact us to re-envision your workplace and create a space you truly want to spend time in.

09/08/2025

Project Spotlight: The Farmyard Trading Post, Polokwane

Immerse yourself in the architectural vision behind The Farmyard Trading Post, where design meets everyday convenience.

Watch our new video showcasing how thoughtful spatial planning, material choices, and pedestrian-centric layout create a welcoming suburban retail precinct with a human touch. From seamless access and generous parking to inviting public spaces and curated tenant experiences, this centre redefines how functional meets beautiful.

🛒 What’s Inside:

A balanced mix of retail, wellness, dining, lifestyle, and service amenities.

Intentionally designed walkways, cosy lounging areas, and natural light enhancements.

A design approach that addresses both tenant needs and shopper comfort.

If you're passionate about how architecture shapes community interactions or looking for inspiration in retail design, this is one you won’t want to miss.

Let us know which architectural feature stands out to you most—quality craftsmanship, intuitive layout, or something else?

11/07/2025

Great architecture goes beyond walls and roofs — it’s about how a space feels. At the heart of every well-designed interior lies a story of light, flow, texture, and purpose.

Whether it's the serenity of natural light pouring into a quiet reading nook, or the seamless connection between kitchen and living areas that brings people together — interior design shapes how we live, work, and feel. We're not only creating space but we're adding mood, serenity, emotion and purpose to your experience.

Our approach is human-first:
Maximise natural light
Harmonise materials and colors
Encourage movement and comfort
Design with intention and personality

Because every space should do more than look good — it should feel like home.

02/05/2025

🏗 Construction Underway in the Wild Heart of Balule 🐘

We’re excited to share that ground has officially been broken on an exclusive new lodge in the Balule Block of the Greater Kruger area! Co-LAB Architects has partnered with our client to bring this contemporary bush retreat to life—where bold architecture meets the untamed beauty of the African veld.

Designed to frame the landscape rather than dominate it, the lodge makes use of raw textures, earthy tones, and generous open spaces to connect seamlessly with its surroundings. Each structure is carefully positioned to respect existing trees, natural contours, and—of course—the occasional elephant visitor.

Stay tuned for more updates as this incredible project unfolds.

27/03/2025

16/08/2024

Co-LAB Architects is excited to present our latest project, a sophisticated modernisation of an existing home that expands living spaces while creating a stronger connection with the outdoors. The redesign strategically addresses the previous disconnection between the house and the swimming pool by introducing seamless transitions that unify interior and exterior spaces.

In this project, we focused on architectural clarity and efficiency, embracing the principle of 'doing more with less.' Every material and detail was carefully chosen to enhance functionality and maintain aesthetic purity, resulting in an elegant and purposeful design.

By optimizing spatial layouts and maximising natural light, we have created a residence that feels more expansive and deeply connected to its surrounding environment. This project reflects our commitment to innovative, context-sensitive design that elevates the living experience.

21/06/2024

🚧 Exciting Progress Update! 🚧

We're thrilled to share the latest construction milestones for Sub-Sahara Solar's new warehouse in Polokwane! Our innovative design, emphasising sustainability and functionality, is coming to life beautifully. Every detail, from the robust steel framework to the meticulously crafted brickwork, is taking shape. Stay tuned as we move closer to completion and contribute to a greener future!

Photo Credit: Maurice Ferreira (Unico Projects - Main Contractor)

31/03/2024

We're thrilled to unveil our newest design, blending modern sophistication with the warmth of natural elements. Presenting a double-storey house that redefines contemporary living.

Crafted predominantly with concrete, glass, and steel, this home stands as a testament to sleek minimalism. But what truly sets it apart is the infusion of natural stone and wood, infusing the space with a sense of humanity and warmth.

Step inside, and you'll be greeted by expansive spaces bathed in natural light, thanks to large sliding doors that effortlessly merge the indoors with the lush outdoors. It's a seamless transition, inviting you to embrace the beauty of both realms.

We're proud to have created a space that not only reflects modern aesthetics but also fosters a connection to nature and a sense of comfort. Stay tuned for more glimpses into this stunning project!