Architecture
PORTFOLIO
Ildea van den Berg | M.Arch.Tech | B.Tech
My approach to design is rooted in
curiosity and problem-solving, which
drove my master’s research on
repurposing discarded local stone for
contemporary architecture, through
hands-on exploration and finding
meaningful ways to connect
traditional materials with modern
practices. Compassion, endurance,
and self-expression shape my work
ethic and my commitment to
thoughtful design.
Meticulous and dedicated, I take
pride in approaching every task
carefully, ensuring that each project
reflects purpose, responsibility, and
creativity.
I L D E A V A N D E N B E R G
Email: [email protected]
Contact: 083 789 5713
www.linkedin.com/in/ildea-van-den-berg
SACAP reg CSAT67621033
E X P E R I E N C E R E F E R E N C E S
Attending on- and off-site meetings, drafting
municipal submissions and technical construction
drawings, and assisting with design development
and project proposals for locations in Zimbabwe,
Kenya, and the DRC.
Attending on- and off-site meetings, assisting
with drawing revisions using Caddie and
ArchiCad, and meeting with company
representatives to explore new products for
design development.
Candidate Senior Architectural Technologist
Part Time Intern
2021 - Feb 2024
2017 - 2018
Richter and Associates Architects
Archactive Architects
E D U C A T I O N S O F T W A R E
B-Tech Architectural Professional Degree
Tshwane University of Technology
M.Arch Tech (Master of Architecture in Architectural
Technology)
Tshwane University of Technology
National Senior Certificate
Hoërskool Oosterlig
2015 - 2019
2023 - 2024
2013
rupert@r-aa.co.za
083 450 3646
elise@archactive.co.za
083 448 5512
Richter and Associates Architects
Archactive Architects
Rupert Richter | Director
Elise van Gass | Owner
ArchiCad
Lumion
Adobe
Illustrator
Adobe
Photoshop
Revit
MS Word
MS Excell
MS
PowerPoint
Sketchup
Adobe
InDesign
01
02 04 06
03 05 07
Masters Dissertation -
Innovative Approaches
to Architectural
Stonework
Structure Narrative -
Rissik Street
Practice Work -
Kisumu Jubilee Bridge
Practice Work -
Springvale Primary
School
Spirit and Material
Equipoise - The
Artefact
Practice Work -
Fishbay Residence
Practice Work -
Vheneka Residential
Estate
Masters Dissertation - Innovative
Approaches to Architectural
Stonework: Examining Pretoria’s
local stone resources and
machining techniques
01
Research focus
Natural discarded stone in contemporary
construction, highlighting the challenges
and opportunities.
It covers the historical importance of the
material, its uses today, and the potentiality
for innovative reuse and technological
improvements for applications in the future.
Column System:
Repurposing Discarded Stone for
Structural Use
The Column System explores the potential of
repurposing discarded stone for construction by
transforming offcuts into modular components.
This approach presents a sustainable method for
material reuse.
The process began with selecting and measuring
stone pieces, cutting them into uniform 20 mm
deep blocks while preserving their natural
thickness. A grinder with a diamond blade created
precise separation lines, followed by a hammer
and chisel to refine the interlocking components
for enhanced stability.
Once assembled, the system weighed 24.15 kg and
was designed for easy disassembly and relocation.
This project demonstrates how discarded stone
can be reimagined as strong, reusable building
elements, offering a practical solution for
sustainable construction.
Column and Beam System:
Reviving Discarded Stone for
Structural Use
The Column and Beam System repurposes discarded
stone by transforming it into a structural element. The
process involved stacking and cutting stone samples
to size using a grinder, then securing them with M6
screws, which were later cut into steel rods for
reinforcement. A water-cooling system minimized dust
and overheating during drilling, ensuring precise
connections.
The final 3.64 kg assembly merges historical materiality
with modern machining, demonstrating the enduring
architectural potential of repurposed stone.
Stone Space Frame System:
Reviving Discarded Stone
The Space Frame System was developed using
discarded Caesarstone samples, selected for their
uniform shape and texture to ensure smooth
assembly. The pieces were cut to the required
length using a grinder with a diamond blade, and
a hose-dripping system, which prevented
overheating, reduced dust, and minimised the risk
of cracking.
Each stone sample was drilled with 8 mm holes at
its base using a diamond drill bit. However, during
assembly, the square-shaped stones created
alignment issues, as their sharp corners interfered
with the steel connectors, preventing precise
angles.
To resolve this, a local artisan skilled in metalwork
and motorcycle repairs was consulted. His
expertise was crucial in reshaping the blocks,
eliminating obstructions, and allowing for accurate
connections.
For structural stability, 8 mm stainless steel rods
were chosen for their strength and compatibility
with stone. To determine the best angles, flexible
steel wire was shaped as a guide before the rods
were welded into rigid connectors. The rods were
then securely glued into the pre-drilled
Caesarstone holes using epoxy, ensuring a strong
and stable bond.
This system successfully demonstrates how
discarded Caesarstone can be refined and
repurposed for structural applications, bridging
traditional material reuse with modern fabrication
techniques.
Through testing various stone types and
machining techniques—including grinding,
drilling, chipping, polishing, and engraving—the
distinct properties of each material became
evident. These tests provided insights into how
different stones respond to manipulation,
highlighting their potential applications in
architecture.
By understanding how each stone reacts to
machining, architects can make more informed
material choices, aligning their selections with
design intent. These findings serve as a reference
for integrating natural stone into contemporary
architecture in ways that respect its inherent
characteristics while expanding its possibilities in
modern construction.
5th year Masters project
Structure Narrative - Rissik Street
02
Project Overview
This project explores the relationship
between urban decay, historical significance,
and the human experience within
architectural spaces.
The site is located between historical
structures and a fountain, the project
reimagines the role of architecture in
reconnecting people to their environment
and history
Design
5th year Masters project
Spirit and Material Equipoise - The Artefact
03
Project Overview
This project is about a symbolic dinner table
made from Fastcrete to represent the
complex dynamics within a family.
Each block signifies a family member, and
explores themes of communication,
connection, and conflict, highlighting how
family tensions disrupt balance and create
lasting impacts.
