Timeless Design

In the realm of architecture, Pemba designs spaces that respond to their environment with timeless elegance and thoughtful innovation. Like nature’s own creations, our bespoke structures foster meaningful connections between people and place.
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About Us

Pemba is a Cape Town-based architectural practice dedicated to crafting bespoke residential architecture and transformative spaces. The firm was born from a shared passion for bold ideas and a lifelong curiosity about the built environment.

Pemba is rooted in a philosophy that prioritizes thoughtful, human-centered design, blending sustainability with cutting-edge technology. Every project is a dialogue between purpose, place, and the people who will inhabit the space. With years of experience at award-winning architectural firms in design and strategic leadership roles, Alfred and Michael bring a rich understanding of diverse project types, including single and multi-residential projects, heritage restorations, mixed-use developments, unique hospitality experiences, and urban design.

The firm embraces a holistic design approach that extends beyond architecture, incorporating elements of interior design, urban planning, and product design to create spaces that are as functional as they are inspiring. Collaboration is central to their ethos, both within the studio and with their clients, contractors, and consultants. Their work reflects a deep respect for site context, materiality, and craftsmanship—creating homes and environments that are timeless, elegant, and meaningful.

Pemba looks to the future with a mission that explores new ways to push the boundaries of design and innovation. The practice aims to expand its global reach, driven by a vision of creating spaces that not only reflect the lives of those who live in them but also endure for generations to come.

Leadership

Alfred Vinyu

Principal | Architect

Alfred is an architect and project leader with extensive experience across private and public sector developments. His portfolio includes residential, commercial, educational, and transit-oriented precincts, along with the management of a R300M+ healthcare portfolio.

With a strategic and solutions-driven approach, Alfred seamlessly integrates design, project management, and development expertise to deliver impactful, high-performance spaces.

Michael Hobbs

Principal | Architect

Michael is a design-driven architect with a deep passion for innovation, craftsmanship, and human-centered spaces. His expertise spans residential and mixed-use developments, cultural and educational institutions, and luxury hospitality.

Michael brings a thoughtful, future-focused approach to every project—balancing bold ideas with meticulous detail.

How We Began and
Where We’re Going

Forged in Friendship

Pemba was founded on the idea of collaboration, developing architecture that enhance lives through thoughtful, engaging, and intelligent spaces.

Rooted in Imagination
We see architecture as works of art that you can walk through, and our goal is to make the most incredible art.
Design That Dares to Innovate
Early exposure to detailed, award-winning projects taught us to value precision and courage in design.
Your Vision, Our Blueprint
Our design philosophy starts with you. We collaborate closely to ensure each space reflects your unique vision, style, and personality.
Designed to Last
Pemba embraces sustainability with energy-efficient design, biophilic principles, and resilient materials.
Global Design, Personal Touch
We leverage technology and remote collaboration to design globally but keeps the human element central.

Our Services

Architecture

Concept design through to construction documentation.

Innovative, context-driven, and sustainable architectural solutions.

Urban, residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.

Integration of passive design strategies for energy efficiency.

Collaboration with local architects for international projects.

BIM-driven workflows for precision and coordination.

Urban & Landscape Design

Large-scale master planning and urban frameworks.

Sustainable landscape integration and green infrastructure.

Public space and placemaking strategies for vibrant communities.

Site analysis and contextual studies for urban developments.

Ecological and climate-responsive design approaches.

Resilient and adaptive strategies for flood, heat, and biodiversity.

Mixed-use and transit-oriented development planning.

Cultural and historical landscape preservation.

Research & Feasibility

Site and market analysis to assess project viability.

Urban planning and large-scale development strategy.

Cost-benefit analysis for materials and construction methods.

Regulatory and compliance research for global projects.

Cultural and contextual studies for meaningful architecture.

Risk assessment and mitigation planning.

Interiors

Design coordination from concept to execution.

Procurement management and contractor liaison.

Budgeting, scheduling, and risk mitigation.

Quality control and design integrity enforcement.

Construction phase oversight in collaboration with local teams.

Contract administration and documentation management.

3D Modelling & Analysis

BIM modeling for detailed design and coordination.

Energy modeling for efficiency and sustainability optimization.

3D printing for prototyping and physical model exploration.

Digital twin technology for predictive maintenance and monitoring.

Structural and environmental performance simulations.

High-quality renders and animations for presentations.

Industrial Design

Custom furniture, lighting, and fittings tailored to each project.

Functional and aesthetic solutions for unique spaces.

Sustainable and locally sourced material innovations.

Prototyping and development using digital fabrication techniques.

Modular and prefabricated design solutions.

Custom signage & branding elements for identity-driven spaces.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

How do I start a project with Pemba?

To start a project, simply contact us via our website or give us a call. We’ll schedule an initial consultation to discuss your vision and project details.

Can I hire your architectural practice for only part of the design process?

Yes, we offer flexible service options to suit your needs. If you're unsure about the full scope of your project or want to explore possibilities, you can engage us for an initial feasibility study or concept design. These services help define the project's potential, explore design options, and clarify your vision before committing to a full design process. Whether you need assistance with just one stage or the entire journey, we’re here to support you.

What is the typical timeline for a project?

Project timelines vary based on scope and complexity. We provide a detailed timeline during the initial consultation and keep you updated throughout the process.

Do you offer sustainable design options?

Sustainability is at the core of Pemba’s design philosophy. We integrate passive design strategies, material efficiency, and advanced digital modeling to create buildings that are energy-efficient, resilient, and contextually responsive.

Our approach includes:

Climate-responsive design – Maximizing natural light, ventilation, and shading for energy efficiency.

Material innovation
– Prioritizing locally sourced, low-impact, and durable materials.

Smart technology & modeling – Leveraging BIM, energy modeling, and digital twins to optimize performance.

Water & resource management – Implementing rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and efficient systems.

Every project is an opportunity to push the boundaries of sustainable and future-proof design, ensuring long-term value for both clients and the environment.

Can you work with my local contractors and builders?

Absolutely. We often collaborate with local contractors and builders to ensure that our designs are executed to perfection, adhering to both our standards and local building codes.

How involved will I be in the design process?

You’ll be actively involved throughout the design process. We value client input and ensure your vision is reflected in every aspect of the project.

How do you ensure the project stays on schedule?

We ensure projects stay on schedule by utilizing detailed project timelines and conducting regular progress reviews to monitor milestones. We work closely with a trusted network of professionals, including contractors, consultants, and local architects, to address challenges proactively. Additionally, we use advanced data capturing and project management software to keep all stakeholders informed and aligned throughout the process. This integrated approach minimizes delays and ensures smooth project execution.

What Services do you offer Globally?

Pemba provides a comprehensive range of architectural and design services tailored to international projects. Our expertise extends across:

Architecture & Interior Design – Full or partial services, from concept to construction documentation and procurement.

Research & Feasibility Studies – Urban planning, site analysis, and project viability assessments.

Product & Furniture Design – Bespoke solutions crafted for unique spaces and experiences.

3D Modeling & Digital Analysis – BIM integration, energy modeling, 3D printing, and digital twin technology.

Project Management & Procurement – Coordination of design execution, ensuring seamless delivery.

Whether designing a landmark building, refining interiors, or developing cutting-edge digital models, Pemba offers innovative, high-quality solutions tailored to each project's specific needs and context.

What are the benefits of hiring PEMBA for an international project?

Pemba brings a bold, future-focused design approach to every project, combining global architectural expertise with a deep understanding of local context. Our process ensures that your project benefits from world-class design thinking, meticulous detailing, and a commitment to sustainability, while also being seamlessly integrated into its specific location.

By hiring Pemba, you gain access to a practice that pushes the boundaries of design and innovation, delivering spaces that are not only functional and compliant but also transformative, distinctive, and timeless.

How do you ensure quality in international projects?

At Pemba, we maintain the highest standards of design quality by delivering projects up to Stage 4 (construction documentation and procurement) with meticulous attention to detail. Our expertise ensures that every aspect of the design—functionality, aesthetics, sustainability, and innovation—is fully developed before construction begins.

For site execution, we collaborate with trusted local architects of record, who bring essential on-the-ground knowledge of regulations, permitting, and construction standards. This approach allows us to maintain design integrity while ensuring compliance with local codes. By combining our global design vision with local execution expertise, we provide a seamless and well-coordinated architectural experience, delivering projects that are both conceptually bold and contextually sound.

Can you manage the entire project remotely?

Yes, we can oversee the project remotely and collaborate closely with local architects and consultants. We stay involved throughout the construction process to ensure the project aligns with our design and quality standards. Ideally, we would like to visit the site at the major checkpoints in the project and meet with our clients on site to document the progress.

What is your approach to project budgeting?

We work closely with you to establish a realistic budget and manage costs effectively, providing transparent updates and adjustments as needed.

Can you help with permits and approvals?

We take care of all the necessary permits and approvals for your project as part of our comprehensive service, ensuring full compliance with local regulations. We co-ordinate the process with the various specialists and consultants necessary for these applications, with Pemba always acting as an extension of the client's best interests.

How do you handle project changes?

We accommodate changes through a structured revision process, ensuring that adjustments align with your vision and budget.