Corobrik celebrates over three decades of supporting the SAIA Awards

For nearly a century, the South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) Awards have been a pillar of architectural excellence, celebrating innovation and design. From the first Award of Merit in 1931 to today, these awards have fostered a culture of recognition and discussion within the architectural community.

Leading brickmaker Corobrik has played an integral role in this journey as a proud sponsor and patron of SAIA for over 30 years, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the architectural and built environment community in South Africa. The partnership between Corobrik and SAIA has been crucial to the success of the awards programme. With Corobrik’s continued support, the awards have not only grown but have also created a platform to celebrate exceptional design work by South African architects.

The 2023/2024 Corobrik SAIA Awards of Merit and for Excellence received 68 submissions, including 64 Category A building projects and four research or social importance projects. These entries were showcased during Climate Week at the Galman Gallery in New York, marking a global celebration of South African architectural talent under the theme ‘Cross Boundaries.’

It also saw a keynote address delivered by incoming SAIA President Arch. Claire McCusker, who paid tribute to her predecessor, Arch. Mokena Makeka, also the convenor of the adjudication panel for the awards. “The future of SAIA is unprecedented, and it calls for all our creative and critical thinking skills which we, as architects, possess in abundance,” said McCusker.

“There are no true experts in this journey; we will all need to learn as we build this institute together. What I do know, however, is that no community can thrive without mutual respect, a shared vision and mission for SAIA, and the belief that every individual who shows up and is present in this space brings value. I am not alone in my pursuit to build a stronger SAIA,” said McCusker.

“This cycle of awards was particularly complex, as many projects were affected by Covid-19, impacting construction, design phases, and costs. We are witnessing a reemergence of architectural production in a post-Covid economic environment,” said Makeka. However, the current cycle also highlighted a notable lack of depth and diversity in public projects, as well as diversity among participants.

“I would love to see more participation from people of colour, more women engaged, and more young architects taking the lead. This reflects the challenges faced by minority architects in making a significant impact and underscores the need for greater patronage and clients willing to invest in diverse voices within the field of architecture,” pointed out Makeka.

Corobrik CEO Nick Booth reflected on the company’s long-standing association with SAIA. Reflecting on his own journey with the company, which began in 1980, Booth stressed the importance of embracing change. “I believe organisations like SAIA are essential, which is why we are partners, and not just sponsors or donors. We see this as a true partnership because we believe in SAIA’s ongoing role in South Africa.”

Both Corobrik and SAIA need to be proactive in shaping the future. “This is not about political changes or superficial measures; it is about a genuine understanding of what organisations like SAIA need to look like in five, ten, or even twenty years’ time to meet the evolving needs of the profession.”

Booth highlighted that SAIA’s vision of being driven by its members is not just important for the architectural profession, but also for the built environment, the construction industry, and South Africa as a whole. “Corobrik stands ready to contribute to the future of architecture in South Africa, highlighting the importance of collective effort to address the evolving needs of the profession and the construction industry.”

The awards adjudication panel, led by Makeka, consisted of Arch. Justin Cooke; Arch. Adheema Davis; and Ms. Karabo Motsepe-Marutla, Corobrik Sponsor Representative. Davis said being part of the adjudication was highly beneficial, as both a practicing architect and an academic. “Engaging with different projects allowed me to bring new insights into my teaching.”

 She encourages her students to look beyond their immediate surroundings and consider how architecture can be responsive to diverse needs and contexts. “I was able to introduce my students to some of the projects we judged. It broadened their understanding of what architecture can be.” Davis commented that digital tools are transforming the traditional design-and-build paradigm.

“However, I always stress to my students that these are just tools. They should complement, not replace, the creative process. It is about finding the right balance. It is an exciting time. There is so much potential for innovation, especially if we embrace diversity in all its forms. We need to design for a pluralistic world, where everyone’s needs are considered,” said Davis.

Cooke explained that the adjudication panel reviewed online submissions, conducted site visits, and developed a protocol as a team to assess the projects fairly. “It was about opening a conversation and bringing everyone’s perspectives to the table. We focused on various aspects, like whether the projects made good use of their environment, materials, and overall design integrity. It was not just about technical excellence; we wanted to see if the spaces were pleasant to live or work in.”

While general trends were difficult to pinpoint due to the diversity of the project submissions – from schools to residences, sports facilities, and more – a common theme was opening up buildings to their natural or urban environments, creating more accessible and inclusive spaces. “We did notice a lack of projects that directly addressed issues like poverty and affordable housing. Most entries came from more affluent sectors, which reflects the state of architecture and who is building what in our country,” added Cooke.

“There is a need for more public investment and competitions that encourage innovative solutions for housing and community facilities. That could really change the landscape of our urban spaces.” However, Cooke said he “was relieved to see thoughtful projects that went beyond commercial development. The academic projects, in particular, were thought-provoking and inspiring.”

Thanks to Corobrik’s unwavering support, SAIA is well-positioned to continue its mission of promoting architectural excellence. As Booth reaffirmed, the future of architecture in South Africa lies in embracing change, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that the architectural profession thrives for years to come.

Ends

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Notes to the editor

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About Corobrik
From small beginnings in 1902, Corobrik has evolved into South Africa’s leading clay brick and paving manufacturer. Corobrik’s product quality and performance attributes remain key to the company’s success.

Corobrik Contact

Thilo Sidambaram

Corobrik

Marketing Support Manager

Phone: (011) 871 8667

Email: thilo.sidambaram@corobrik.co.za

Web: www.corobrik.co.za

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• FILES: Corobrik celebrates over three decades of supporting the SAIA Awards_ approved
  Title: Corobrik celebrates over three decades of supporting the SAIA Awards_ approved
• IMAGES:
  Title: Adjudicators Arch. Justin Cooke and Arch. Adheema Davis
  Caption: Adjudicators Arch. Justin Cooke and Arch. Adheema Davis
  Title: Corobrik CEO Nick Booth [1]
  Caption: Corobrik CEO Nick Booth [1]
  Title: Corobrik CEO Nick Booth [2]
  Caption: Corobrik CEO Nick Booth [2]
  Title: Justin Cooke, Karabo Marutla-Motsepe (MC), Willem Grove, and Adheema Davis
  Caption: Justin Cooke, Karabo Marutla-Motsepe (MC), Willem Grove, and Adheema Davis
  Title: SAIA President Arch. Claire McCusker
  Caption: AIA President Arch. Claire McCusker