Seven decades of original, functional and creative architecture
A common thread throughout MDS Architecture’s remarkable longevity is the accurate interpretation of client requirements with creativity, originality and exemplary deliverables.
Partner Tia Kanakakis reflects on uncompromisingly high standards. “The beauty of African architecture is that it responds contextually to its environment, culture, and demographic needs. It is a source of great pride that MDS Architecture has been the only architect of record for Sandton City since its launch over 50 years ago. Our retail developments are designed by South Africans and can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the most outstanding international retail centres. MDS Architecture has set leading benchmarks for iconic commercial and retail architecture in our country,” she says.
Despite its size and the ease with which it executes on large-scale projects, the culture and ethos at MDS Architecture are synonymous with those of a family practice. The personal touch is a key ingredient of the secret sauce that explains how a 70-year-old practice with a rich history has an exciting future.
The early years
In 1954, Gluckman and De Beer founded an architectural practice based in Johannesburg’s city centre. It would grow to become known as MDS Architecture and boast a legacy that would span seven decades.
The 1960s saw the firm's portfolio expand with a burgeoning list of projects, including mosques in Mayfair and Lenasia. Several office buildings shaped the urban landscape, including the multi-level high-rise Bank of Lisbon office building, which reflected the modernist and brutalist architectural influence of the time.
Partner Pierre Lahaye reflects on how the approach to buildings has changed over the years. “Gone are the days when unfriendly structures were erected on the outskirts of town. Developments are now viewed as part of the fabric of each community. As such, they are treated as public buildings that create new nodes and places of gathering. Communities value developments as important job creators both during construction and as trading entities. In fact, we have seen communities voluntarily step in to protect buildings under threat.”
Regional shopping centres take off in South Africa
The opening of the Bryanston Shopping Centre in 1971 marked MDS Architecture’s journey into shopping centre design. A string of iconic shopping centres ensued during the 1970s and 1980s, including Rosebank Mall, Eastgate, Westgate, Highgate, and the eminent Sandton City, which emerged as a symbol of progress and a catalyst for the development of Sandton as the wealthiest square mile in Africa.
New horizons
The 1990s witnessed the business’s expansion onto the global stage, with projects extending from South Africa to Dubai, East and West Africa, and Mauritius. From hotels to leisure complexes, MDS Architecture left an indelible mark on the built environment at home and abroad. Continuing the tradition of operating from buildings designed by the firm, the team moved into its new single-level home at 4 Stan Road, Sandton.
“In the 34 years since I joined MDS Architecture, the practice has deepened its expertise. Design has become increasingly collaborative and functional to ensure that buildings are also commercially astute. Contemporary, viable design ensures that the two key ingredients of architecture, functionality and creativity, comfortably co-exist.”
A new millennium and diversity
With the dawn of the new millennium came a renewed focus on sustainability, though MDS Architecture already viewed green building initiatives and environmental consciousness as a prerequisite of best practice design.
As South Africa celebrated its rich tapestry of diversity during the 2010s, the work of MDS Architecture celebrated cultural heritage and inclusive design in diverse projects such as Alex Mall, Ballito Junction and Mall of the North. Refurbishments gave new energy to Ferndale on Republic, Rosebank Mall, and Sandton City’s iconic Diamond Walk, food court and cinema level.
Mall of Tembisa
Mall of Tembisa
Partner Louis Pretorius celebrates the state of development in South Africa’s more outlying areas. “Previously neglected areas are now enjoying top-tier contemporary design and finishes thanks to the pioneering vision of several developers who recognised the importance of serving disenfranchised communities. They realised (and persuaded financiers) that while migrant workers flocked to urban areas, those remaining in rural areas needed to be properly served.
Multi award-winning designs and new surroundings
Year after year, commercial and retail industry bodies have recognised design excellence and commercial considerations. MDS Architecture has amassed over 85 South African and international awards over the past four decades.
In 2016, 4 Stan Road was redeveloped and MDS Architecture began a new chapter in this sculptural eight-storey boutique office development, which received a 4-Star Green Star Design and Build rating from the Green Building Council.
“Architecture must consistently offer more innovation and interaction. People want to be engaged and buildings need to serve as elegant, aesthetic vessels to showcase what is on offer to the public. We focus on delivering contemporary buildings with the ability to evolve,” says partner Aki Savva.
MDS Architecture is an award-winning architectural practice with an extensive portfolio spanning commercial buildings, mixed use developments, residential developments, regional and neighbourhood shopping centres and casino / entertainment and hotel resorts, both in South Africa and abroad.
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