Boogertman + Partners Architects was established in 1982. With offices in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, and Kenya, the practice engages in projects throughout Africa continually embracing social, economic, and functional challenges through ‘Human Centered design’.
Having gained national and international acclaim, Boogertman + Partners has successfully completed projects in Egypt and Sudan; has on-going projects in Botswana, Kenya, South Africa and Zambia, as well as numerous design proposals in the Ivory Coast, Ghana, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, Uganda and Zimbabwe.
Boogertman + Partners are driven by a dynamic team of directors who share a vision for contextually responsible and innovative design; with a dedicated approach to the building process from project inception to execution. The team is complimented by talented professionals- urban designers, interior designers, architects, and technicians, including an in house graphic design and marketing team as well as the support of administrative staff.
Armed with this intrinsic nexus of skills, Boogertman + Partners encourages a collaborative process in which the client brief and dialogue is realised by a creative vision, shaped by geographic location and environmental characteristics, moulded by economic and social conditions and refined through technical and sustainable advances- resulting in a holistic project solution.
Gold founder members of the Green Building Council of South Africa, Boogertman + Partners fully support the environmentally sustainable transformation of the built environment. With increasing concerns over global warming and the pressures of sprawling urbanism, Boogertman + Partners, through our integrated design approach, is committed to creating and developing sustainable environments; environments that are low energy consuming, efficient and flexible; encouraging an optimally healthy lifestyle.
Boogertman + Partners also endeavour to sustain mutually beneficial relationships with our clients. Irrespective of building category, we believe a continuous design process which engages the client, consultants, contractors as well as the end user add value not only to the clients’ investments but the greater community.
Currently ranked in the BD World Architecture 100 Magazine as 105th globally and currently rated as top South African practice, Boogertman + Partners stand testimony to their philosophy of empowerment through education and ‘Human Centered design’.
The South African Professional Services Academy spoke to Interior Design Team Leader at Boogertman + Partners Elene’ Olwagen about her professional journey.
Tell us your brief history and your role TODAY at Boogertman Partners?
I studied Consumer Science (Interior) at the University of Pretoria and graduated in 2008. I started as an intern at Boogertman + Partners the same year and was permanently appointed in 2009. I am now part of a team of 13 fabulous interior designers at our Pretoria office, where my role is to assist in managing the team. I am the point of contact on many projects, focusing on client relationships and overseeing on site projects.
What does the role of Interior Design Team Leader at Boogertman Partners mean to you?
It is an honour to work with such an amazing team. My role as leader is to guide the team and to make sure that we deliver on our promise.
You have had several academic and professional achievements, which one stands out for you and why?
Receiving an International Award for our Google Johannesburg project.
What advice do you have for students who are looking forward to joining the profession?
You must have a passion for the construction industry; this is not your normal 8-5 office job. The job satisfaction of seeing your dream and sketch on paper come to life is worth every second.
What has been the highlight of your career with the company?
Receiving various awards for numerous projects such as DEA (Department of Environmental Affairs) and GOOGLE!
What principles and values do you think are important for a young professional?
Integrity and Passion.
Explain what contribution you have made to the company since joining it?
I am a driven young individual with a passion for this industry, this is evident in the way I approach and handle every project.
Who stands out for you as a role model and why?
My parents, my mother is as solid as a rock with the kindest soul ever, and my dad, who is also in the construction industry, is the family’s foundation.
Where do you want your career to be in 10 years’ time?
I would like to make a visible change. Literally, I would like to change people’s perceptions, not only of this industry, but by creating liveable designs. I want to deliver designs that are focused on the end-user.
When you are not at work, what do you get up to?
I enjoy good quality time with family and friends. I bake often and if I must say, I’m pretty good at that too. I love good food, good wine, good company, and if you throw in a good breakaway, it’s a bonus.
Where can people follow you online?
Follow me on Instagram or LinkedIn.