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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award."
Daan Ferreira
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award."
Daan Ferreira
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award."
Daan Ferreira
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award."
Daan Ferreira
✔ 20+ Years Designing Along the Garden Route
✔ Featured in VISI & Dwell Magazine
✔ Award Winning Architect Institute of Architects
✔ 20+ Years Designing Along the Garden Route
✔ Featured in VISI & Dwell Magazine
✔ Award Winning Architect Institute of Architects
✔ 20+ Years Designing Along the Garden Route
✔ Featured in VISI & Dwell Magazine
✔ Award Winning Architect Institute of Architects
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
Designed inside and out, not just for looks, but for your lifestyle.
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
Designed inside and out, not just for looks, but for your lifestyle.
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
Designed inside and out, not just for looks, but for your lifestyle.
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 My Work
Get Inspired By My Work
Get Inspired By My Work
Holiday home in Buffelsbaai
Perched at the edge of forest and sea, this sculptural retreat in Buffelsbaai captures the drama of its setting. Iconic red concrete “ears” funnel in breezes and frame views, while multi-level interiors flow seamlessly between inside and outside. Custom-designed furniture and finishes reflect the same commitment to crafted detail as the structure itself, creating a complete architectural experience.
Architecture & Internal Design
2020
It remains a building which sets a further example for humility, for contextual engagement, for the rejection of stylistic surrender and for a bold and outgoing good-mannered architecture.
CAPE INSTITUTE FOR ARCHITECTURE
Holiday home in Buffelsbaai
Perched at the edge of forest and sea, this sculptural retreat in Buffelsbaai captures the drama of its setting. Iconic red concrete “ears” funnel in breezes and frame views, while multi-level interiors flow seamlessly between inside and outside. Custom-designed furniture and finishes reflect the same commitment to crafted detail as the structure itself, creating a complete architectural experience.
Architecture & Internal Design
2020
It remains a building which sets a further example for humility, for contextual engagement, for the rejection of stylistic surrender and for a bold and outgoing good-mannered architecture.
CAPE INSTITUTE FOR ARCHITECTURE
Holiday home in Buffelsbaai
Perched at the edge of forest and sea, this sculptural retreat in Buffelsbaai captures the drama of its setting. Iconic red concrete “ears” funnel in breezes and frame views, while multi-level interiors flow seamlessly between inside and outside. Custom-designed furniture and finishes reflect the same commitment to crafted detail as the structure itself, creating a complete architectural experience.
Architecture & Internal Design
2020
It remains a building which sets a further example for humility, for contextual engagement, for the rejection of stylistic surrender and for a bold and outgoing good-mannered architecture.
CAPE INSTITUTE FOR ARCHITECTURE
Hemel-en-Aarde Holiday Home
Tucked into a former quarry in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, this holiday home is a study in restraint and harmony with nature. The dark brick exterior grounds the building in the earth, while warm timber interiors create a tranquil living experience that feels both protective and open. Every detail, from material choices to orientation, was shaped by the site’s rhythms of light and landscape.
Architecture
2022
This restrained and carefully detailed building provides a modest and humble backdrop for its inhabitants’ lives. It is a masterpiece.
CAPE INSTITUTE FOR ARCHITECTURE
Hemel-en-Aarde Holiday Home
Tucked into a former quarry in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, this holiday home is a study in restraint and harmony with nature. The dark brick exterior grounds the building in the earth, while warm timber interiors create a tranquil living experience that feels both protective and open. Every detail, from material choices to orientation, was shaped by the site’s rhythms of light and landscape.
Architecture
2022
This restrained and carefully detailed building provides a modest and humble backdrop for its inhabitants’ lives. It is a masterpiece.
CAPE INSTITUTE FOR ARCHITECTURE
Hemel-en-Aarde Holiday Home
Tucked into a former quarry in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, this holiday home is a study in restraint and harmony with nature. The dark brick exterior grounds the building in the earth, while warm timber interiors create a tranquil living experience that feels both protective and open. Every detail, from material choices to orientation, was shaped by the site’s rhythms of light and landscape.
Architecture
2022
This restrained and carefully detailed building provides a modest and humble backdrop for its inhabitants’ lives. It is a masterpiece.
CAPE INSTITUTE FOR ARCHITECTURE
Pringle Bay Holiday Home
A coastal cottage transformed into a refined holiday home, this Pringle Bay project balances sensitivity and bold renewal. The renovation expanded living spaces and opened views to the ocean, while carefully integrating with the natural environment. From cabinetry to lighting, custom interventions reflect a philosophy of designing every element to enhance the way of living.
Renovation & Interior Design
2019
A Free State farming couple tasked a young Knysna architect with the renovation of their cheerless holiday home and were pleasantly surprised to find that he genuinely walked the talk – with the spiders and baboons too.
Vizi Magazine
Pringle Bay Holiday Home
A coastal cottage transformed into a refined holiday home, this Pringle Bay project balances sensitivity and bold renewal. The renovation expanded living spaces and opened views to the ocean, while carefully integrating with the natural environment. From cabinetry to lighting, custom interventions reflect a philosophy of designing every element to enhance the way of living.
Renovation & Interior Design
2019
A Free State farming couple tasked a young Knysna architect with the renovation of their cheerless holiday home and were pleasantly surprised to find that he genuinely walked the talk – with the spiders and baboons too.
Vizi Magazine
Pringle Bay Holiday Home
A coastal cottage transformed into a refined holiday home, this Pringle Bay project balances sensitivity and bold renewal. The renovation expanded living spaces and opened views to the ocean, while carefully integrating with the natural environment. From cabinetry to lighting, custom interventions reflect a philosophy of designing every element to enhance the way of living.
Renovation & Interior Design
2019
A Free State farming couple tasked a young Knysna architect with the renovation of their cheerless holiday home and were pleasantly surprised to find that he genuinely walked the talk – with the spiders and baboons too.
Vizi Magazine
What My Clients Say
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
What My Clients Say
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
What My Clients Say
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
We've built two homes with Guillaume Pienaar, and if we ever build a third, we wouldn’t hesitate to work with him again. His rare combination of world-class architectural skill and genuine care sets him apart, he stays deeply involved from concept to completion, crafting thoughtful, collaborative designs rooted in both history and heart.
Conrad Kemp
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 design even earned a Cape Institute for Architecture award.
Daan Ferreira
What I Do
What I Do
What I Do
Architecture
I design buildings that balance beauty, function, and context, from concept to completion. Each project is crafted with precision and purpose to create timeless spaces.
01
Architecture
02
Interior Architecture
03
Consultation
04
URBAN DESIGN
01
Architecture
Architecture
I design buildings that balance beauty, function, and context, from concept to completion. Each project is crafted with precision and purpose to create timeless spaces.
02
Interior Architecture
Interior Architecture
From concept to completion, I design spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. My process covers every stage — site planning, building design, interior detailing, custom finishes, bespoke built-in furniture, and integrated lighting — ensuring a seamless experience where inside and outside flow together. The result is timeless architecture that elevates everyday living.
03
Consultation
Consultation
My consultation service gives you expert guidance tailored to your needs. Whether it’s advice on layout, materials, or refining your vision, I provide clarity and direction so you can move forward with confidence.
04
Urban Architecture
URBAN DESIGN
Pinard Architecture shapes contemporary urban spaces with thoughtful, functional design that elevates everyday living.
01
Architecture
Architecture
I design buildings that balance beauty, function, and context, from concept to completion. Each project is crafted with precision and purpose to create timeless spaces.
02
Interior Architecture
Interior Architecture
From concept to completion, I design spaces that are as functional as they are beautiful. My process covers every stage — site planning, building design, interior detailing, custom finishes, bespoke built-in furniture, and integrated lighting — ensuring a seamless experience where inside and outside flow together. The result is timeless architecture that elevates everyday living.
03
Consultation
Consultation
My consultation service gives you expert guidance tailored to your needs. Whether it’s advice on layout, materials, or refining your vision, I provide clarity and direction so you can move forward with confidence.
04
Urban Architecture
URBAN DESIGN
Pinard Architecture shapes contemporary urban spaces with thoughtful, functional design that elevates everyday living.
Ready to Create Your Dream Space Together?
Join me now and discover the possibilities!
Ready to Create Your Dream Space Together?
Join me now and discover the possibilities!
Ready to Create Your Dream Space Together?
Join me 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
How long does the design and build process take for a house?
Concept design: 3–6 months Approval: 2–3 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 and homeowners' association approvals?
Absolutely. We handle all necessary drawings, documentation, and submissions to the local municipality and HOA 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 Knysna, Buffels Bay, and Plettenberg Bay along the Garden Route, we also take on select projects across the Western Cape, and internationally, when the vision and timing align. If you’d like to share your site with us, we’d love to hear from you.
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 design 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 for a house?
Concept design: 3–6 months Approval: 2–3 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 and homeowners' association approvals?
Absolutely. We handle all necessary drawings, documentation, and submissions to the local municipality and HOA 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 Knysna, Buffels Bay, and Plettenberg Bay along the Garden Route, we also take on select projects across the Western Cape, and internationally, when the vision and timing align. If you’d like to share your site with us, we’d love to hear from you.
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 design 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 for a house?
Concept design: 3–6 months Approval: 2–3 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 and homeowners' association approvals?
Absolutely. We handle all necessary drawings, documentation, and submissions to the local municipality and HOA 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 Knysna, Buffels Bay, and Plettenberg Bay along the Garden Route, we also take on select projects across the Western Cape, and internationally, when the vision and timing align. If you’d like to share your site with us, we’d love to hear from you.
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 design works spatially, structurally, and sustainably. We take your ideas and translate them into something that is both buildable and beautiful.