Steffen Labuschagne

As a pet sitter in Pretoria for five years, I provided in-home care for pets, including feeding, walking, and administering medication. This experience improved my communication skills with pet owners, enhanced my time management abilities, and deepened my understanding of animal behavior and care, contributing to my overall professionalism.

In my role at TAARCH in Cape Town, I have been actively involved in various aspects of architectural practice. This includes gaining hands-on experience in design, drafting, and administrative tasks, as well as participating in site meetings. Notably, I have contributed to the ongoing residential building project by producing detailed plans and sections. This experience has been instrumental in enhancing my technical skills and understanding of the architectural process, reinforcing the significance of precision and clear communication in project delivery.

As a candidate architect/designer at MILarchi Architects, I had the opportunity to work in a dynamic, collaborative environment that prioritizes culturally rooted and sustainable design. Drawing from my experience designing and documenting projects in South Africa and Uganda, I contributed to projects that aimed to create meaningful community impact. The studio's multidisciplinary approach allowed me to engage with urban and interior design, while its mentorship-driven culture fostered both professional and creative growth. Working within this setting deepened my understanding of context-driven architecture and reinforced my commitment to designing for social and environmental relevance. Moreover, I have worked closely with clients and construction professionals on the deliverables that make each project unique and challenging. This has has fostered a collaborative learning curve and a higher understanding of the architectural profession.