Celebrating 25 Years of GEOMETRICS

GEOMETRICS turns 25 this year!

In 2000, we brought together our architectural practice, interior design studio, and landscaping team. We registered as a closed company under Design Legends t/a GEOMETRICS. Since then, we’ve been helping clients shape spaces they love to live and work in.

What We’ve Done

Over the years, we have designed and guided the building process for:

• Private homes and elegant cluster developments
• Functional offices and inviting restaurants
• Cosy kitchens, stylish bathrooms, and beautiful libraries
• Thoughtful interior makeovers and large renovations
• Gardens, water features, and swimming pools

Most of our work is in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg and in Pretoria.

The Journey (Good and Tough)

It hasn’t always been easy. We’ve worked through recessions, lockdowns, strikes, power cuts, water shortages, and many other bumps in the road. These challenges made us stronger and smarter. Today, with 25 years of experience, we still love what we do—and we’re better at it than ever.

Our Team and Partners

Great results need a great team. Alongside our in-house designers and architects, we work with:

• Structural engineers
• Town planners
• Quantity surveyors
• Building contractors and tradespeople
• Manufacturers and suppliers
• Garden and landscape specialists

This network lets us give clear advice, practical designs, and solid delivery from start to finish.

How We Work

• Listen first: We learn your needs, budget, and timeline.
• Design with purpose: We balance beauty, function, and cost.
• Guide the build: We coordinate the process so details don’t slip.
• Finish well: We aim for clean handovers and happy clients.

Looking Ahead

The world of architecture and design is changing fast. New materials, smarter tech, and shifts in policy are reshaping how we plan and build. We are excited about these changes and ready to use them to bring more value to our clients.

Thank You

To our clients, partners, and friends—thank you for trusting us over the last 25 years. Your support means everything.

Let’s Talk

Have a project in mind? Let’s celebrate and chat about your ideas.

• Call or WhatsApp Laura: 083 294 4419
• Email: info@geometricsdesign.co.za

Here’s to the next chapter for GEOMETRICS!

Why You Should Work With an Architect

There are many valuable reasons to involve an architect in a building project:

1. Holistic Vision – An architect can turn your requirements and “dreams” into a functional, practical concept.
2. Legal Expertise – They understand all legal and statutory requirements and know how to navigate them.
3. Ongoing Learning – Architects keep studying even after formal qualifications, staying up to date with the latest trends and developments in the industry.
4. Time and Cost Savings – They help you avoid costly and time-consuming mistakes.
5. Budget Planning – They assist in creating a realistic and effective budget.
6. Contractor Selection – They can help you choose the right building contractor.
7. Security Advice – They advise on safety and security aspects of your project.
8. Aesthetic Considerations – They ensure the design is visually appealing.
9. Environmental Impact – They consider how the building will affect its surroundings.
10. Human Well-being – They understand how space, colour, and texture affect health, and plan accordingly when choosing finishes.

At GEOMETRICS, our team of architects, interior designers, and landscaping specialists has been known for creativity, efficiency, and expertise for 25 years – yes, it’s our anniversary! We’ve built a reputation for designing remarkable homes, inspiring interiors, and beautiful gardens. Clients often say, “We love your ideas – we never would have thought of that ourselves.”

We listen carefully to each client’s needs, give clear advice on legal and financial considerations, and approach every project with patience, understanding, and perseverance – earning the trust of our clients along the way.

Working with an Architect

When you work with an architect, a formal agreement is signed. This outlines:

• The services to be delivered
• The information the client must provide
• The agreed professional fee (payable at different stages of the project)

The same applies when working with interior designers or landscaping specialists. At GEOMETRICS, we guide you through all the required steps from start to finish.

Affording an Architect – A Common Myth

Many believe architects are only for the wealthy. In reality, clients with smaller budgets often need more guidance to avoid costly mistakes. Our experienced, compassionate architects can help you achieve great results without wasting money.

Architect fees, recommended by the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP), the Council for the Built Environment (CBE), and voluntary architectural organisations, are negotiable.

The Six Stages of the Agreement

Stage 1: Inception – Understanding the client’s brief, site details, constraints, budget, consultants needed, and project timeline.
Stage 2: Concept and Viability – Developing initial designs, assessing space needs, materials, services, and compliance with land use rights.
Stage 3: Design Development – Refining the design, consulting authorities, integrating services, and confirming costs.
Stage 4.1: Documentation and Procurement – Preparing documents for local authority submission, coordinating technical details, and finalising specifications.
Stage 4.2: Tender Process – Calling for and evaluating tenders, recommending contractors, and arranging contracts.
Stage 5: Construction – Overseeing construction, inspecting work, managing the contract, and helping secure the occupation certificate.
Stage 6: Close Out – Finalising handover, issuing completion certificates, and providing as-built drawings and guarantees.

Payments are made as a percentage of the total fee, due only after each stage is completed and invoiced. An architect may act as the Principal Consultant or Principal Agent for the client, and can be hired for all or part of the stages. For small projects, a time-based fee arrangement can also be negotiated.

Contact Information for GEOMETRICS

For professional assistance with design, architecture, landscaping, interiors, borehole applications, and project management, you can contact GEOMETRICS. We offer comprehensive support to help you navigate legal requirements and ensure a smooth, successful project.

Tel: 083 294 4419
E-mail: info@geometricsdesign.co.za

Feel free to reach out for expert guidance in making your project a success!

Buildings and Renovations

Renovating or building on your property in South Africa comes with numerous legal and regulatory considerations. Whether you’re embarking on a small renovation project or constructing a brand-new building, understanding the legal requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth process and avoid unnecessary setbacks. In Johannesburg and beyond, there are specific legal frameworks in place, from municipal land use regulations to national building codes, all of which help ensure that construction is done safely, sustainably, and within the bounds of the law.

Legal Restrictions for Building Projects

Before you begin any building or renovation project, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the various legal and regulatory restrictions that may apply to your property. Below is a breakdown of the key legal considerations you need to keep in mind:

1. The Municipal Land Use Scheme (LUM)

The first step in understanding what you can and cannot do with your property is the Municipal Land Use Scheme (LUM). This scheme defines several important aspects of how your property can be used. The LUM will dictate:

• Zoning: This determines the type of activities or buildings allowed on the property, such as residential, commercial, or industrial use.
• Coverage: This refers to the percentage of the property that can be covered by buildings or structures.
• Height and Floor Coverage: The LUM also specifies the allowable height of buildings and the floor coverage ratio, ensuring that construction is in line with the character of the area and local regulations.

Additionally, the Surveyor General Diagram—a map included in municipal bylaws—outlines the exact position of the property and specifies the boundaries, building lines, servitudes, and rights of way. These details ensure that construction doesn’t encroach on neighboring properties or violate other legal boundaries.

It’s important to note that if there are any restrictions that you want to adjust, you can apply to the City Council for a relaxation of these restrictions. If approved, an “Amendment Scheme” will be filed, which includes detailed information about your property’s location and any modifications to the zoning laws.

2. The Title Deed

The title deed is another key document that outlines important details about your property. It shows:

• The name and ID number of the registered owner of the property, as recorded in the Deeds Office.
• Any specific restrictions that might apply to the property. These restrictions can sometimes override municipal land use regulations.

If your property’s title deed includes certain restrictions, they can be removed, but it requires a formal legal process. If you wish to have certain restrictions lifted from your property’s title deed, you’ll need to go through the appropriate legal channels to initiate this change.

3. National Building Regulations (SANS 10400)

The National Building Regulations (SANS 10400) provide clear guidelines on the application process for building plans and the construction of new structures. These regulations are designed to ensure that all buildings are constructed safely, are energy-efficient, and adhere to other sustainability standards.

One particularly important section is Regulation 10400 XA, which focuses on energy savings and environmental sustainability. This amendment requires that all new buildings and alterations comply with specific measures for energy efficiency, such as building orientation, insulation, and the use of solar heating.

It’s worth noting that any building projects or renovations that were started before November 11, 2011 (the date that XA 10400 became law) are not required to comply with these energy-saving provisions unless you apply for an exemption from the Building Control Officer.

4. The Provincial Heritage Resources Authority – Gauteng (PHRAG)

In Gauteng, many buildings of historical significance are protected by the Provincial Heritage Resources Authority (PHRAG). If you plan to alter, extend, or demolish a building that is older than 60 years, you will need to obtain a permit from PHRA-G.

The process for obtaining a permit from PHRA-G requires submitting plans for the proposed work to the relevant Residents Association for review and approval. Once the Residents Association has given its approval, you can submit your plans to PHRA-G for the final permit.

Building Plan Approval Process

All building plans in Johannesburg must be approved by the City Council before work can begin. In some cases, building plans may be lost, incomplete, or outdated. This is where things can become tricky, especially if you need approved plans to proceed with a loan application or to transfer ownership of a property.

In cases where building plans have been lost or need to be updated, Conveyancers—the professionals handling property transfers—will require approved building plans to process any transactions. Similarly, banks often require approved plans when you apply for a home loan or a building loan.

If your building plans are incomplete or missing, you can still move forward by applying for retrospective approval from the City Council. While the City Council typically charges normal application fees, there are no additional penalties for applying for retrospective approval.

How GEOMETRICS Can Assist

Navigating the legal requirements and approval processes for building and renovation projects can be a complex and time-consuming task. Fortunately, professional assistance is available to ensure that your project complies with all necessary regulations and goes through the correct approval channels.

GEOMETRICS Design & Architecture is a trusted provider of design, architecture, landscaping, interiors, and project management services. They specialize in helping property owners manage building and renovation projects from start to finish, offering expert advice and support every step of the way.

Whether you need assistance with gathering approved plans from the City Council or if you need new plans created and submitted for approval, GEOMETRICS is here to help. They will ensure that all your documentation is in order and assist with any adjustments that may be needed to get your project approved.

Additionally, GEOMETRICS offers expert project management services to make sure your building or renovation project progresses smoothly, staying on schedule and within budget. They’ll also ensure compliance with all necessary regulations, including national building codes and environmental sustainability measures.

For those who find themselves in need of assistance during any phase of their construction journey, GEOMETRICS provides tailored solutions to ensure that everything is handled efficiently and professionally. If necessary, they can even help with the appeal process in case your plans are not initially approved.

Contact Information for GEOMETRICS

For expert guidance on building plans, project management, and legal requirements for your construction or renovation project, you can contact GEOMETRICS.

• Tel: 083 294 4419
• Email: info@geometricsdesign.co.za

GEOMETRICS is ready to assist with all aspects of your building project, from design to final approval.

Everything You Need to Know About Drilling Boreholes in Johannesburg for Water

In recent years, Johannesburg residents have been facing an ongoing water crisis. With City Water struggling to guarantee an uninterrupted water supply, many have turned to an increasingly popular solution—drilling boreholes. This alternative is seen as a way to access groundwater directly, bypassing municipal water systems. However, while the idea of having your own reliable water source sounds appealing, the process involves more than just finding a drill and starting to dig. In fact, there are several important factors to consider, including legal requirements, drilling practices, and potential challenges.

Why Are Johannesburgers Drilling Boreholes?

Water shortages in Johannesburg have become more pronounced, leading residents to explore various ways to secure a reliable source of water. The problem isn’t just about dry taps; it’s about the uncertainty surrounding the continuity of water delivery. Some areas are affected by frequent disruptions, leaving residents without access to water for long periods. As a result, more people are opting for boreholes as an alternative.

Boreholes are drilled into the ground to reach the water table, where groundwater is stored. The depth at which water is found can vary greatly depending on the location. Some people manage to find water at just 30 meters deep, while others may have to drill as deep as 80 meters. In certain unfortunate cases, people have drilled into unintended areas, such as the Gautrain tunnel—proving that borehole drilling requires more than just a casual approach.

But the excitement of having your own water source comes with a set of responsibilities. The legalities surrounding borehole drilling are often overlooked, and many Johannesburg residents are unaware that drilling a borehole requires a permit from the Johannesburg Land Use Management office.

The Legal Side of Borehole Drilling

If you want to drill a borehole in Johannesburg, you’ll need to go through a formal approval process. Under the City of Johannesburg’s Land Use Scheme (2018), a permit is required for any borehole drilling. This means you must apply for written consent from the Johannesburg Land Use Management department. Failing to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines or having the borehole filled in.

The process of obtaining this permit can be somewhat lengthy and involved. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what you need to do:

1. Submit an Application: The first step in the process is to submit a written consent application to the Johannesburg Land Use Management department. This can be done by emailing LandUseApplications@joburg.org.za.
2. Required Documents: Along with your application, you will need to provide several documents:
   • A completed application form
   • A copy of the property’s title deed
   • Zoning details for the property
   • A motivation memorandum explaining the purpose and necessity of the borehole
   • Drawings indicating the proposed location of the borehole on your property
3. Pay the Application Fee: Currently, the application fee is R1,185.00, although this fee is likely to increase in the coming months.
4. Assessment by City Authorities: Once your application is submitted, it will be assessed by multiple city departments, including City Water, the Johannesburg Roads Agency, City Power, and the Environmental Infrastructure Service Department. These authorities will review the feasibility and potential impact of drilling a borehole on your property.
5. Geological Assessment: A geologist will be required to assess any potential dolomite risks in the area. Dolomite is a type of rock that can cause dangerous subsidence in certain areas, so understanding its presence is crucial.
6. Land Use Management Decision: After all evaluations, the Land Use Management (LUM) department will make a decision on whether to approve or deny your application. If your application is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision.

This entire process may seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be managed effectively. Companies like GEOMETRICS offer professional assistance in preparing the necessary plans and application forms to help you navigate the process with ease.

Engaging a Borehole Driller

Once you have your permit in hand, the next step is to hire a reputable borehole drilling company. It is crucial to ensure that the company you choose is a member of the Borehole Water Association (BWA). Membership with the BWA guarantees that the company follows industry best practices and complies with all necessary standards.

Before the drilling starts, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Access to the Property: It’s important to make sure the drilling company has clear and easy access to your property, especially the area where the drilling will take place. The drilling equipment is large and bulky, so the site needs to be accessible.
• Notification for Neighbors: Drilling a borehole can be a noisy and disruptive process. It is a good idea to notify your neighbors ahead of time to prepare them for the noise and potential mess. Borehole drilling usually involves loud machinery, and it’s not uncommon for dogs to become agitated by the unfamiliar sounds. This could lead to additional noise from barking dogs, which may be disruptive to everyone in the neighborhood.
• Water Storage Location: Once the borehole is drilled, you will need to plan for water storage. Ensure that the location where the water will be stored is easily accessible and meets all safety requirements.

Testing the Water Quality

One of the key factors in using borehole water is ensuring that it is safe for consumption. While borehole water is an excellent resource for gardening and irrigation, it’s essential to test the water before using it in the household for drinking, cooking, or bathing.

Water quality can vary widely depending on the depth of the borehole, the geological conditions of the area, and potential contaminants in the water source. Therefore, it’s crucial to have the water tested by a reputable laboratory to ensure that it is safe to use. Some tests will check for the presence of harmful bacteria, chemical pollutants, and other contaminants.

In summary, drilling a borehole in Johannesburg can be a reliable solution for accessing water, especially during times of water shortages. However, it’s important to follow the correct legal procedures, engage with professional drilling services, and ensure that the water is tested for quality. By adhering to these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of your borehole while avoiding potential legal or health issues down the line.

If you’re considering drilling a borehole, it’s essential to be aware of the necessary permits and the steps involved. With the right information and guidance, you can ensure that the process goes smoothly and that your new water source serves you well for years to come.

Contact Information for GEOMETRICS

For professional assistance with borehole applications and project management, you can contact GEOMETRICS for their services in design, architecture, landscaping, interiors, and project management. They offer comprehensive support to help you navigate the legal requirements and ensure a smooth drilling process.

Tel: 083 294 4419
E-MAIL: info@geometricsdesign.co.za

Feel free to reach out for expert guidance in your borehole drilling project!