River House Studio

River House Studio is a South African Architecture Firm founded by Willem Steytler.

At River House Studio, we believe in well-crafted, timeless architecture which is honest in construction, form and materials

A large part of working with an existing building is deciding what should change, and what should still be remembered.Fo...
09/06/2026

A large part of working with an existing building is deciding what should change, and what should still be remembered.

For this design, the new façade was not treated as a complete erasure of the old one. A plaster band is kept where the previous windows once sat, leaving a trace of the earlier elevation within the new design.

For River House Studio, this is an important part of making architecture feel meaningful: allowing a building to grow into something new, without losing all evidence of what it has been.

Following on from our previous reel, which explored the diagrams behind this additions and alterations project in Newlan...
04/06/2026

Following on from our previous reel, which explored the diagrams behind this additions and alterations project in Newlands, Cape Town, this render gives a glimpse of the atmosphere we are working towards: layered living spaces, a strong connection to the outdoors, and a calm retreat within a lush setting.

01/06/2026

Exploring some animated diagrams of the proposed additionals and alterations for a house we are busy with in Newlands, Cape Town.

No.02 on the list of the River House travel series is Peter Zumthor’s Bruder Klaus Field Chapel in Germany. The construc...
26/05/2026

No.02 on the list of the River House travel series is Peter Zumthor’s Bruder Klaus Field Chapel in Germany.

The construction of this chapel is quite extraordinary, it was built using a timber formwork made from tree trunks, around which layers of rammed concrete were carefully poured. Once the concrete had set, the timber was slowly burned out, leaving behind a dark, textured interior marked by the memory of the construction process itself. The result is both raw and deeply atmospheric: heavy from the outside, quiet and almost cave-like within.

Its architectural significance lies in this direct relationship between material, process, light and experience. Nothing feels decorative or unnecessary. The building becomes meaningful through how it is made, how it holds light, and how it invites stillness.

Visiting the chapel was truly memorable and meaningful. This is the kind of architecture that reminds us how powerful simple materials can become when handled with care and intention.

Another look at the outdoor entertainment pavilion from our previous post.It’s designed to be a relaxed spot for spendin...
20/05/2026

Another look at the outdoor entertainment pavilion from our previous post.

It’s designed to be a relaxed spot for spending time outdoors, with the lounge, bar, built-in braai and pizza oven all gathered around the pool and garden. The concrete ceiling gives the pavilion a bit of weight and character, while the large openings keep it connected to the beautiful surrounding gardens.

Equal parts shelter, sculpture, and excuse to stay outside all day.The brief called for an outdoor entertainment pavilio...
15/05/2026

Equal parts shelter, sculpture, and excuse to stay outside all day.

The brief called for an outdoor entertainment pavilion centred around relaxed, open-air living, including a built-in braai area, pizza oven, lounge space, and a strong connection to the surrounding garden and pool.

Alongside the pavilion, the project also introduces a new apartment addition to the property, which we’ll be sharing more of over the next few posts.

The ideas guy. Usually spotted pointing at imaginary walls.
12/05/2026

The ideas guy. Usually spotted pointing at imaginary walls.

This courtyard is conceived as a private sanctuary at the heart of the home. Carefully positioned to maximise privacy, t...
08/05/2026

This courtyard is conceived as a private sanctuary at the heart of the home. Carefully positioned to maximise privacy, the building turns inward from neighbouring edges while opening generously to light, landscape, and sky. A protected terrace with braai facilities creates a calm setting for gathering and everyday living, while the open-plan interior extends naturally outward, forming a seamless connection between home and garden.

Some renders of one of the units on the House on Darling project
04/05/2026

Some renders of one of the units on the House on Darling project

Some more renders for the House on Darling coming up!
30/04/2026

Some more renders for the House on Darling coming up!

Address

4 Charay Mansions, 34 Ludlow Road
Vredehoek
8001

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 17:00
Thursday 08:00 - 17:00
Friday 08:00 - 17:00

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