"BUILDING SUCCESS" |
Keith Alexander,
Alexander Architectural Designs, Cape Town |
The building blocks of Keith Alexander's career in the architectural field came together in the carpentry office where he worked as an apprentice. During this vital phase various draughting plans bearing detailed CAD drawings often passed the contractor's desk. These drawings sparked an interest which eventually led Keith into architectural design.
"Being exposed to design and contract work as a shop fitter led me to participate in many exciting ventures. These projects ranged from the generation of interior plans for stores, restaurants and even night clubs. It has been a very rewarding career and I have learnt a great deal in each project,” says Keith, recalling the early years. Keith’s interest in draughting was further fuelled by his love for AllyCAD.
“There is no other program that can produce designs at the same speed as AllyCAD. I never use the drawing board, I have an idea and can produce the finished result using the program in exactly the same way as I have conceptualized it. It's absolutely amazing,” remarks Keith.
Keith’s recollection of some of the most memorable projects includes Mannenberg’s Jazz Café in the Waterfront, various night clubs in Johannesburg, a couple of restaurants in Durban, the Upington Spar Supermarket and the upgrade designs for the V&A Waterfront’s Quay Four. “My projects have kept me busy and have led me to travel extensively,” he says.
Having the dual advantage of creating designs and being involved in the construction activities has placed Keith in a very favorable position. “I am able to provide clients with the lowest cost to complete projects and have been able to under quote many other independent contractors. Being a self taught designer has also provided me with a genuine appreciation for the discipline. Today I am a perfectionist and many of my clients have become accustomed to quality output,” he says.
|
|
When asked which project stands out head and shoulders above the rest, Keith responds enthusiastically: “That would be the final designs for the Turfhall Primary School Hall. I enjoyed this project in particular because I was also the chairman of the schools governing body and took a special interest in the project. Many of the projects that I undertake are also handled in this way. I take a personal interest in each design. Experimenting with the layout and design of individual living spaces gives one a sense of great satisfaction. The final designs have to be aesthetically pleasing yet practical at the same time.”
“I work quite closely with each client to get the basic idea and layout. The preliminary designs are then discussed with the client and amendments and revisions undertaken in order to produce the final design. I have also on numerous occasions advised the client on how to subdivide a property and liaised with the land surveyor to get the documentation approved. Being involved at this level allows me to provide an extensive service that has worked well for clients.”
Satisfied clients are the highlight of Keith’s job but he is quick to point out that the contractual side of his portfolio is subject to huge time pressures. “When I finished the design of the Upington Spar, the owner wanted construction to start immediately and wanted to begin trading shortly thereafter. We ended up getting a huge team of contractors involved to finish the project and it was an extremely stressful time. Handling a large task force like that with an impossible timeline is definitely the downside of the business, but in the end another satisfied client walks away.”
The last few years have certainly been eventful for Keith. His advice to any budding architectural entrepreneur is simple: “Enjoy what you do and you will end up doing it well. Quality is also hugely important in this business because you pick up business by word of mouth referrals. I am pleased when clients compliment me on creative and practical designs that work for them,” Keith says in closing.
|
Keith Alexander
Keith Alexander from Alexander Architectural Designs is a self taught Architectural designer with extensive experience in the construction industry. He has combined his skills to include an all encompassing service to clients which range from the approval of plans to architectural designing and consultation surrounding re-zoning applications and surveying. Keith is married and has three daughters who he says keep him on his toes. In his leisure, Keith enjoys playing baseball and travelling.
|
|
 |
 |
 |
Block I, The Terraces, Steenberg Office Park, 1 Silverwood Close, Tokai 7945.
Tel: +27 +21 701-1850 Fax: +27 +21 701-1822
Web: www.knowbase.co.za Email: info@knowbase.co.za
|
|
 |