Selected Work
Lutho Siganagana
Candidate Architectural Technologist
As I reflect on my journey in studying and working in the Built Environment, I have come to the realization that my fascination for Architecture extends beyond merely the desire to create beautiful buildings. It encompasses the desire to create spaces that challenge the status quo, foster community, and contribute to the development of a strong South African identity embedded in diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability.
My undergraduate years at the University of the Witwatersrand taught me more than just the basic principles of design and construction; they taught me to be a conscious designer who prioritizes environmental stewardship and a responsible designer who aspires to create spaces that not only meet but exceed the expectations of their users. Courses such as Histories and Theories of Architecture outlined the complexity of architecture and its overwhelming influence on society at large. Each project provided new learning opportunities, which brought forth a new set of challenges that entailed learning critical thinking, research, collaborative learning, constructive criticism, time management, and more. In this process, I started to question and slowly develop my own design identity. When I look back on my undergraduate years, I do so with fondness because I know that through failure and triumph, the three-year undergraduate courses set a solid foundation for the next phase of my architectural journey.
The transition from studying architecture to practicing it was not entirely seamless. There was no longer room for error, and maintaining a strong workflow became a top priority. Architecture was now firmly grounded in reality, with real-life implications, and buildings were no longer created in a laissez-faire manner but with deliberate intention . This leads me to my journey at TCN Architects as a Candidate Architectural Technologist and Intern. Though challenging, working as an intern straight out of university became my most fruitful learning experience.
I was fortunate to work under the guidance of experienced professionals, gaining insight into project operations and the dynamics of each stage of architectural work. My overall experience involved creating and coordinating documentation, communicating with relevant consultants, attending progress meetings and site visits, observing contract administration and management, and finally understanding the general operation of an architectural company. This experience also opened my eyes to the successes and shortcomings of the South African building industry, further motivating me to pursue my postgraduate degree. I aim to join the new wave of designers who share a deep concern for the state of our building industry and aspire to contribute to the evolution of our built environment.
I am excited to apply for my postgraduate degree at the University of the Free State because I believe that the two-year program will set me on the path to becoming an architect of value and purpose. I intend to honor my commitment to this degree by upholding the integrity of the School of Architecture, not compromising on quality, maximizing opportunities, and always prioritizing responsibilities.
Thank you for considering my application, I look to hearing your feedback.
Sincerely Lutho Siganagana
EXPERIENCE
2023 - Current
Architectural Intern
TCN Archiects CC
ACHIEVEMENTS
2023
MDS Architecture Prize
This Honour is awarded to top achievers of the Class 2022 : for being the student who submitted the best design project of a commercial or institutional building in the final year of study of the Bachelor of Architectural Studies Degree.
2022
Caesarstone Student Design Competition
Top 9 Finalist in the 2022 Caesarstone Student Design Competition (SDC)
REFERENCE
Principle & Professional Architect
AJ Corbett 082 772 4832
aj@tcnarch.co.za
TCN Archiects CC
Lecurer & Architect
Sandra Felix 011 622 6451
sandra.felix@wits.ac.za
University of the Witswatersrand
EDUCATION
2020 - 2022
Bachlor of Architectural Studies
University Of The Witswaterstrand
2015 - 2019
National Senior Certficate
Clarendon High School For Girls
SKILLS
Revit - Advanced Sketchup - Intermediate AutoCAD - Intermediate ArchiCAD - Beginner
Indesign - Advanced Ilustrator - Intermediate
Photoshop - Beginner
Enscape - Advanced Twinmotion- intermediate Lumion - intermediate
ACTIVITIES
Painting , Visual Art & Running
LANGUAGE
English IsiXhosa
02 03 04
Student Design Competition ‘22 6 -9
Macckear Catholic Church Accomdation 24-28
DoE Design Reviews 29-33
DoE Overcroeding Schools 34-38
brates South African culture and honors a form of identity that is rooted in democracy.
