Dirk completed his Master’s degree in Architecture at the University of Pretoria in South Africa, graduating with a design for a trade fair complex in Port Elizabeth covering more than 400,000 m². In this project, he deliberately focused on the commercial and operational complexity of the scheme - a reflection of his enduring interest in the purpose and function of buildings.
After graduating, Dirk moved to London, where he worked at HOK International. In 2008, he returned to South Africa and, after eight years of working as a project architect, set up his own architectural practice. His work there was primarily focused on hospitality projects in the Cape Winelands. The impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry brought an end to his practice - a turning point that led him to start a new chapter in the Netherlands.
For Dirk, ensuring functionality is always the foundation of good design. He draws motivation from work with a clear societal benefit and consistently favours clarity and restraint over extravagance. In cepezed’s progressive working culture and community-driven projects - such as the Bravis Hospital - he recognises the same set of values. He’s also drawn to cepezed’s integrated way of working. ‘cepezed’s involvement from concept through to completion isn’t something you see everywhere - and that really speaks to me,’ says Dirk.
