Architect-designed homes, from first sketch to approved plans.
New homes and major upgrades in Kloof, Hillcrest, Umhlanga, Ballito and the North Coast estates, designed by a SACAP-registered professional architect and taken through council and estate approvals to handover.
Start a projectSee our workHomes designed around how you live
A well-designed home starts with the site, the rules and the budget. We design around all three, so your plans are approved and buildable, not just beautiful.
New homes
A new home on your own plot or in an estate, designed from the first site walk to the final inspection.
Major additions and upgrades
Second storeys, new wings and full remodels that transform an existing home and look as if they were always there.
Estate homes
Homes designed to estate architectural guidelines and taken through aesthetics committee and council approval.
Where we design: Kloof · Hillcrest · Gillitts · Waterfall · Everton · Umhlanga · La Lucia · Durban North · Ballito · Zimbali · Simbithi · Mount Edgecombe
What our architects do for you
- Site and feasibility studyZoning, title deed conditions, estate rules, site constraints and a budget check, before you commit to a design.
- Concept and design developmentPlans, elevations and 3D views, refined with you until the design is right.
- Council and estate approvalsSubmission drawings prepared to SANS 10400, coordination with engineers and fire consultants, and follow-through with council and your estate.
- Construction documentationWorking drawings, details and specifications that builders can price and build from accurately.
- Site oversight to handoverSite inspections, contractor coordination and close-out, so what is built matches what was designed.
Mholi Mthembu Pr Arch
Mholi is a SACAP-registered professional architect, co-founder of MAD Design Studios, and a Board Member and Provincial Lead of the Design Institute of South Africa.
He leads every architectural commission personally, from the first site visit to the final inspection.
Follow Mholi on LinkedInHow our fees work
Our residential commissions typically start from R1.5 million construction value. Fees are based on the scope and construction value of your project, guided by the SACAP fee guideline, and billed stage by stage.
Frequently asked
How long do council approvals take?
The law gives councils 30 days to decide on plans for buildings under 500 m² and 60 days for larger buildings. In practice it often takes longer, which is why we submit complete, compliant drawings to avoid unnecessary delays.
Do you design homes in estates?
Yes. We design to each estate's architectural guidelines and manage the aesthetics committee approval as well as the council submission.
Can you also design the interiors?
Yes. Our interior design team works alongside the architecture from the start, so the kitchen, joinery, lighting and furniture are planned with the building.
My project is under R1.5 million. Can you help?
Yes, through our Renovations team, which designs and completes bathrooms, kitchens and home upgrades at a fixed price.
Everything your home needs
Interior Design
Kitchens, finishes, lighting and furniture, planned with the architecture from day one.
Explore interior designRenovations
Bathrooms, kitchens and upgrades for projects under R1.5 million, designed and completed by our own teams.
Explore renovationsMade by MAD
Custom kitchens, joinery and furniture: reception desks, bars, banquettes, wardrobes and vanities, designed for the space.
EnquirePlanning a new home or a major upgrade?
Tell us about the site and the project. We reply within one working day.
Start a project