Award-winning Architect

Architecture That Listens

— To You, And To The Land

Architecture That Listens — To You, And To The Land

As an experienced architect based in Knysna, I help homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle, connect with nature, and stand the test of time.

As an experienced architect based in Knysna, I help homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle, connect with nature, and stand the test of time.

Request a Private Consultation

"Pinard designed our Buffalo Bay beach house with thoughtful attention to every detail—from maximizing sea views to ensuring low maintenance and wind protection. The process was smooth, even with minimal site visits, and the result continues to draw compliments. The design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award. We feel privileged to own a home by such talented, down-to-earth professionals."

Daan Ferreira

Award-winning Architect

Architecture That Listens — To You, And To The Land

As an experienced architect based in Knysna, I help homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle, connect with nature, and stand the test of time.

Request a Private Consultation

"Pinard designed our Buffalo Bay beach house with thoughtful attention to every detail—from maximizing sea views to ensuring low maintenance and wind protection. The process was smooth, even with minimal site visits, and the result continues to draw compliments. The design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award. We feel privileged to own a home by such talented, down-to-earth professionals."

Daan Ferreira

Award-winning Architect

Architecture That Listens — To You, And To The Land

As an experienced architect based in Knysna, I help homeowners create spaces that reflect their lifestyle, connect with nature, and stand the test of time.

Request a Private Consultation

"Pinard designed our Buffalo Bay beach house with thoughtful attention to every detail—from maximizing sea views to ensuring low maintenance and wind protection. The process was smooth, even with minimal site visits, and the result continues to draw compliments. The design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award. We feel privileged to own a home by such talented, down-to-earth professionals."

Daan Ferreira

✔ 20+ Years Designing Along the Garden Route

✔ Featured in VISI & Dwell Magazine

✔ Architectural Designs That Respect Harsh Environments

✔ 20+ Years Designing Along the Garden Route

✔ Featured in VISI & Dwell Magazine

✔ Architectural Designs That Respect Harsh Environments

✔ 20+ Years Designing Along the Garden Route

✔ Featured in VISI & Dwell Magazine

✔ Architectural Designs That Respect Harsh Environments

About

Design That Breathes With The Landscape

You dream of a coastal getaway, but harsh winds, glaring sun, and disconnected spaces often turn that dream into frustration.


When Guillaume Pienaar rebuilt his family’s Buffelsbaai home, he faced those same challenges head-on. As a surfer who knows the Garden Route well, he designed a space that works with nature, not against it.

About

Design That Breathes With The Landscape

You dream of a coastal getaway, but harsh winds, glaring sun, and disconnected spaces often turn that dream into frustration.


When Guillaume Pienaar rebuilt his family’s Buffelsbaai home, he faced those same challenges head-on. As a surfer who knows the Garden Route well, he designed a space that works with nature, not against it.

About

Design That Breathes With The Landscape

You dream of a coastal getaway, but harsh winds, glaring sun, and disconnected spaces often turn that dream into frustration.


When Guillaume Pienaar rebuilt his family’s Buffelsbaai home, he faced those same challenges head-on. As a surfer who knows the Garden Route well, he designed a space that works with nature, not against it.

About

Design That Breathes With The Landscape

You dream of a coastal getaway, but harsh winds, glaring sun, and disconnected spaces often turn that dream into frustration.


When Guillaume Pienaar rebuilt his family’s Buffelsbaai home, he faced those same challenges head-on. As a surfer who knows the Garden Route well, he designed a space that works with nature, not against it.

What You Can Expect

A Space That Feels Like Home

Thoughtfully designed around your lifestyle, not just aesthetics

Clarity From Start to Finish

A guided process that keeps you confident and informed

Design That Lasts

Beautiful, durable spaces that respond to the site, weather, and time

What You Can Expect

A Space That Feels Like Home

Thoughtfully designed around your lifestyle, not just aesthetics

Clarity From Start to Finish

A guided process that keeps you confident and informed

Design That Lasts

Beautiful, durable spaces that respond to the site, weather, and time

What You Can Expect

A Space That Feels Like Home

Thoughtfully designed around your lifestyle, not just aesthetics

Clarity From Start to Finish

A guided process that keeps you confident and informed

Design That Lasts

Beautiful, durable spaces that respond to the site, weather, and time

Get Inspired By Our Work

Get Inspired By Our Work

Get Inspired By Our Work

Project 1

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Kitchen

4 weeks

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Rachel Morgan

Project 1

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Kitchen

4 weeks

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Rachel Morgan

Project 1

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Kitchen

4 weeks

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Rachel Morgan

Project 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

External Works

1 month

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Michael Turner

Project 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

External Works

1 month

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Michael Turner

Project 2

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

External Works

1 month

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Michael Turner

Project 3

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Bathroom

6 weeks

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Laura Davies

Project 3

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Bathroom

6 weeks

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Laura Davies

Project 3

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Bathroom

6 weeks

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in

Laura Davies

What our Clients Say

What our Clients Say

What our Clients Say

What We Do

What We Do

What We Do

At Pinard Architecture, we create refined, thoughtful architecture that feels rooted in place and deeply personal. Based in Knysna and best known for our work in Buffels Bay, we design homes that respond to their environment, the lifestyle of their owners, and the beauty of everyday living.


Whether we’re working on a contemporary beach house or a secluded forest retreat, our process is collaborative, calm, and purposeful. We handle every stage—from initial concept to council approvals and site supervision—so you can trust us to guide you from big-picture vision to the smallest, most intentional detail.

We don’t just design buildings. We shape spaces that live well.


Services include:

  • Custom residential architecture

  • Renovations and additions

  • Site analysis & feasibility

  • Full council submission documentation

  • On-site project supervision & contractor liaison

  • Design consultation & architectural advice

Request a Private Consultation

Ready to Create Your Dream Space Together?

Join us now and discover the possibilities!

Ready to Create Your Dream Space Together?

Join us now and discover the possibilities!

Ready to Create Your Dream Space Together?

Join us now and discover the possibilities!

Answering Your Questions

Answering Your Questions

Answering Your Questions

Answering Your Questions

Got more questions? Send us your enquiry below

Got more questions? Send us your enquiry below

Got more questions? Send us your enquiry below

Get in touch

How long does the design and build process take?

This depends on the scale and complexity of your home, but for a custom residence, you can expect: Design & documentation: 3–6 months Council approval: 1–3 months Construction: 9–18 months We’ll walk you through the timeline upfront and keep communication clear every step of the way.

Do I need to have my land before starting?

Not necessarily. Many clients come to us while still exploring properties, and we often assist with site evaluations to help assess suitability, views, and build potential before you buy. This can save a lot of time (and frustration) down the line.

How involved do I need to be in the process?

As involved as you want to be. Some clients want to be part of every design conversation. Others just want to be looped in at key milestones. We’re comfortable with both and adapt to your preferences while ensuring the integrity of the design is maintained.

Can you help with navigating council approvals?

Absolutely. We handle all necessary drawings, documentation, and submissions to the local municipality on your behalf. We’re familiar with the planning requirements and nuances in the Knysna and Garden Route area, which can save you considerable time and headache.

Do you only work in Knysna?

While most of our work is based in the Knysna, Buffels Bay, and Plettenberg Bay areas, we do take on select projects across the Western Cape depending on availability and alignment. Feel free to reach out and tell us about your site.

Is it worth hiring an architect if I already know what I want?

Yes—especially if you're building in a coastal or environmentally sensitive area. Even with a strong vision, a skilled architect ensures that the space works spatially, structurally, and sustainably. We take your ideas and translate them into something that is both buildable and beautiful.

How long does the design and build process take?

This depends on the scale and complexity of your home, but for a custom residence, you can expect: Design & documentation: 3–6 months Council approval: 1–3 months Construction: 9–18 months We’ll walk you through the timeline upfront and keep communication clear every step of the way.

Do I need to have my land before starting?

Not necessarily. Many clients come to us while still exploring properties, and we often assist with site evaluations to help assess suitability, views, and build potential before you buy. This can save a lot of time (and frustration) down the line.

How involved do I need to be in the process?

As involved as you want to be. Some clients want to be part of every design conversation. Others just want to be looped in at key milestones. We’re comfortable with both and adapt to your preferences while ensuring the integrity of the design is maintained.

Can you help with navigating council approvals?

Absolutely. We handle all necessary drawings, documentation, and submissions to the local municipality on your behalf. We’re familiar with the planning requirements and nuances in the Knysna and Garden Route area, which can save you considerable time and headache.

Do you only work in Knysna?

While most of our work is based in the Knysna, Buffels Bay, and Plettenberg Bay areas, we do take on select projects across the Western Cape depending on availability and alignment. Feel free to reach out and tell us about your site.

Is it worth hiring an architect if I already know what I want?

Yes—especially if you're building in a coastal or environmentally sensitive area. Even with a strong vision, a skilled architect ensures that the space works spatially, structurally, and sustainably. We take your ideas and translate them into something that is both buildable and beautiful.

How long does the design and build process take?

This depends on the scale and complexity of your home, but for a custom residence, you can expect: Design & documentation: 3–6 months Council approval: 1–3 months Construction: 9–18 months We’ll walk you through the timeline upfront and keep communication clear every step of the way.

Do I need to have my land before starting?

Not necessarily. Many clients come to us while still exploring properties, and we often assist with site evaluations to help assess suitability, views, and build potential before you buy. This can save a lot of time (and frustration) down the line.

How involved do I need to be in the process?

As involved as you want to be. Some clients want to be part of every design conversation. Others just want to be looped in at key milestones. We’re comfortable with both and adapt to your preferences while ensuring the integrity of the design is maintained.

Can you help with navigating council approvals?

Absolutely. We handle all necessary drawings, documentation, and submissions to the local municipality on your behalf. We’re familiar with the planning requirements and nuances in the Knysna and Garden Route area, which can save you considerable time and headache.

Do you only work in Knysna?

While most of our work is based in the Knysna, Buffels Bay, and Plettenberg Bay areas, we do take on select projects across the Western Cape depending on availability and alignment. Feel free to reach out and tell us about your site.

Is it worth hiring an architect if I already know what I want?

Yes—especially if you're building in a coastal or environmentally sensitive area. Even with a strong vision, a skilled architect ensures that the space works spatially, structurally, and sustainably. We take your ideas and translate them into something that is both buildable and beautiful.