Marise Grobler
Director
B Arch (stud), B Arch (UFS), MCPUD (UCT), Pr Arch, MIA
Marise is an experienced urban designer and architect with a strong intuition for people and places. She is passionate about realising potential - a skill which is evident both in her approach to urban and architectural design, as well as the way in which she manages the Urban Concepts team. As director and a founding partner of Urban Concepts, her calm leadership and the personal interest she takes in each member of the team create a happy and productive work environment.
Phakamisa Mohaila
Associate
B Tech Arch (NMMU) Pr S Arch T
Phakamisa brings to the team his expertise in architectural construction and detailing; his natural curiosity and eye for lifestyle trends, concepts and design philosophies; as well as his passion for mentorship and sharing of knowledge and skills. As an associate, he works closely with the team and takes a personal interest in their continued growth and well-being. Phakamisa also has a keen interest in history and heritage and is a member of both VASSA and the Jan van Riebeek Society.
Vicko Venter Architect B Arch, B Arch (Hons), M Arch (Prof) (UFS)
Vicko is an Essentialist at heart, aiming to extract and translate the architectural essentials required to cultivate a meaningful and people-centred environment. Out of a love for designing and making that spans beyond architecture and urban design, he endeavours to instil a timeless aesthetic and balance by celebrating the integrity of the design intention.
Julia Uys
Urban Designer
BAS (UCT), BLA (UCT, PGDip (UCT) MUD (UCT)
Julia is an architect and urban designer who is passionate about the meaningful shaping of everyday experiences and the possibilities of impact enabled through quality design.
She is inspired by the vibrancy of landscapes and strives towards interventions supporting the creation of safe and integrated communities.
She joined Urban Concepts in 2023 after graduating from the University of Cape Town with a Masters in Urban Design. Her extensive background in architecture, landscape architecture, graphic design, project management and entrepreneurship equip her with a holistic approach and unique perspective to tackle complex urban issues.
Alexandra-Naledi Holtman
Urban Designer
BAFA (Hons), BLA (Hons), MUD (UCT)
Alexandra-Naledi is an urban designer and joined the Urban Concepts team in 2024. She is passionate about the intersections of spatial and creative disciplines.
With a background in Fine Art and Landscape Architecture, her focus is centred around social justice and strengthening the relationship between the conceptual and ecological realms.
Naledi brings to the team her enthusiasm, warmth and exceptional eye for design.
Blanch Slinger
Office Manager & Finance
Blanch manages the daily operations of the office and assists with project and financial administration. Her organisational skills, attention to detail and capacity to take on responsibility make her an invaluable office manager. Blanch has a natural appreciation for aesthetics which complements her position in an architectural office.