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About MK Architecture
MK Architecture (MKA) is not just a company about designs or blueprints alone, it’s a creative company shaped by years of experience, bold ideas, and a passion for meaningful spaces. This company was founded in 2008 by Michael Kornmüller, and it blends international design with deep local insights. It delivers unique architectural solutions in Africa and beyond.
At MK Architecture, we believe design is never a solo act. Every project that we deliver begins with listening to the client, the site, the budget, and the full context. Our collaborative approach includes all voices in the process. We ask fellow professionals and also the craftsmen and ensure that the final design meets the expectations of clients. We architect the spaces in a way that people can live, work, or relax there without any issues. We create spaces that feel human, functional, and inspired, which are guided by context and built to last.
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About Michael Kornmüller
Born in 1971 in Cape Town, Michael’s career has spanned over 30 years in architecture and design. His architectural journey began in Cape Town, South Africa, with a solid academic background from the University of Cape Town (UCT). He got hands-on experience in Vienna and designed luxurious apartments there. Then, for around a decade, his involvement was in large-scale residential and commercial projects back home in South Africa. These formative years built the foundation of MK Architecture’s thoughtful design approach.
He has worked on a variety of architectural types and founded MK Architecture in 2008. He co-founded Tenthouse Structures in 2009 (specializing in tensile safari-tented structures) and Malapa Turnkey Design in 2021.
He has years of experience in the residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors, which gives him a unique ability to blend creative vision with technical expertise. He makes sure to deliver a design that excels in all areas.
| Born | 1971, Cape Town, South Africa |
|---|---|
| Education | Matriculated with distinction in 1989 (Diocesan College) |
| Bachelor Architectural Studies | 1990-1992, University of Cape Town (UCT) |
| El Appartementbau | 1993-1994, Luxury appartment design & development, Vienna, Austria |
| Bachelor of Architecture | 1995-6, University of Cape Town (UCT) |
| MLB Architecture | 1997-2006, Large-scale Residential & Commercial Architecture, Cape Town |
| Gateway Property Developers | 2006-2008, Design manager on new developments |
| MK Architecture | Founded 2008 to Present |
| Tenthouse Structures | Co-Founded 2009, exited 2020 |
| Malapa Turnkey Design | Co-Founded 2021, exited 2024 |
30+ Years
Experience
30+
Projects
50+
Clients
18+
Locations
From Estate Homes to Safari Lodges
He started strong with a focus on estate residential architecture and then expanded MKA for the hospitality sector, particularly for the African safari lodge market. Over the years, Michael Kornmülller Architecture has crafted multi-storey offices to luxury private homes, and signature safari lodges spread across Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Tanzania, and South Africa. Each project that is designed by MKA truly provides the beauty and also the connection with that particular place, purpose, and people.
Signature Projects
Over the years, MKA has led or contributed to a wide range of projects. Here are just a few highlights:
Safari & Lodge Projects (Tenthouse & Malapa):
- Duma Tau Camp (Botswana)
- Somalisa Camp (Zimbabwe)
- Tawana Camp (Okavango Delta)
- Karenge Camp (Rwanda)
- Osonjoi Lodge (Tanzania) (under construction)
- Masai Mara Lodge (Kenya) (on the drawing board)
Residential & Estate Architecture (MKA):
- Tafelsicht Apartments, Cape Town
- Kelderhof Country Village – homes, entrance, lifestyle centre
- Luxury homes in Franschhoek, Newlands, and Hout Bay
- Eco-modular homes like House Naidoo
- Oakley Villas and House Plummer in Victoria Falls
Looking Ahead
MK Architecture continues to grow with exciting upcoming projects in East and Southern Africa. The company will continue designing safari lodges in the Masai Mara or a modern estate home in the Cape. They have a commitment to create timeless and meaningful architecture that blends with the culture, nature, and comfort of the areas.