ARCHITECTURE
According to the principal architect of a Cape-based firm of architects, well-executed minimalism, is neither indulgent nor simplistic. Instead, it is a disciplined, contextdriven design approach that can support better use of space, lower maintenance and more sustainable living.
For BPAS firm ' s Principal Architect, Landseer Collen( www. bpas. co. za), the misconception starts with how minimalism is perceived.“ People often think minimalism is cheap because it appears simple, when in reality it often requires higher-quality materials and precise detailing,” he explains.“ The other side of the misconception is that minimalism feels exclusive. But it isn’ t about luxury finishes. It’ s about clarity, intentionality and designing only what the space truly needs.”
A luxury look with emotional appeal
“ Minimalism can be luxurious, but not because it’ s filled with expensive things,” Collen says.“ It feels luxurious because it’ s uncluttered and intentional. It gives you room to breathe.”
That perception of luxury, he adds, hides a more practical truth.“ Minimalism is often more sustainable and affordable than people expect. By focusing on fewer materials, simpler forms and efficient use of space, we reduce waste and long-term maintenance. When we use local materials and design smaller, more efficient footprints, the result is resource-conscious, not extravagant.”
For many people, the appeal of minimalism is emotional as much as aesthetic.“ Minimalism offers a vital contrast to the ongoing digital and physical mess of modern life,” says Collen.“ It lessens the mental strain on our busy brains. In today ' s highly consumerist and distracting world, the movement ' s focus on simplicity and purpose provides a needed sense of calm, order, and control. Ultimately, people are looking to shift their time and resources away from non-essential belongings and toward more meaningful experiences and personal well-being. In many ways, minimalism isn’ t a trend but a response to the pace of modern life.”
Principles of minimalism in South Africa
Collen describes minimalism as a philosophy of " less is more ", shaped around clean lines, open space, and a focus on function. Globally, this is usually associated with neutral colour palettes and highly restrained interiors. In South Africa, though, minimalism has taken on its own, warmer character.
“ In a South African context, this often differs by adopting a warmer, more textural approach that incorporates natural local materials and heavily emphasises ' bringing the outside in ' by blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces. For example, there is often a focus on large windows and doors to frame stunning views and facilitate the popular indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Local minimalism tends to integrate raw finishes, earthy tones, and climate-responsive design rather than pure white boxes. So, the core principles align with global minimalism, but the expression is far more contextual, tactile, and connected to place.”
BPAS’ s work at Curro Durbanville High School is an example in practice. The school sits within a precinct informed by its natural setting and the needs of learners, teachers and the broader community. Its U-shaped layout creates a welcoming forecourt and flexible spaces for learning, socialising and exhibition. The design relies on honest materials, including offshutter concrete, patterned brickwork and warm timber.“ The simplicity of the façade lets the form and proportions stand out,” Collen says.
The Clara Anna Fontein residence in Durbanville applies similar principles at a domestic scale. Every room opens onto a central lawn, and the design uses natural light, locally sourced materials and a simple U-shaped plan to create calm, breathable spaces.“ In both cases, the minimalist approach worked because it let light, space, and the surrounding landscape take centre stage, proving that sometimes less really does achieve more,” says Collen.
Curro Durbanville High School
Minimalism can be luxurious, but not because it’ s filled with expensive things.
How do you view design minimalism?
Let’ s get the discussion going. Do you agree with Landseer Collen? Share a short description with the Editor on editor @ tobuild. co. za with your contact details and your occupation.
Well-articulated viewpoints will be published in my June edition – Ed.
www. tobuild. co. za | autumn 2026 45