Boogertman’s architectural legacy honoured at prestigious Memorial Lecture

Veteran architect Henk Boogertman, whose work spans Africa and beyond, was named the 2026 Ian Alexander Memorial Lecture Laureate during a special lecture hosted at TUT.

Veteran architect Henk Boogertman with Pretoria Institute for Architecture President, Donette Werkman. The architect, whose career has shaped skylines across Africa, was recognised as the 2026 Ian Alexander Memorial Lecture Laureate during an event hosted at the Department of Architecture and Industrial Design within the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment (FEBE) at the Tshwane University of Technology.

With more than 45 years in practice, Boogertman and his partners have led the design of major architectural projects across the continent and internationally. Among his notable works is the design of the home of former South African President Nelson Mandela and his wife, Graça Machel, in Maputo.

The annual lecture, hosted by the Pretoria Institute for Architecture (PIA), honours the legacy of renowned architect Ian Alexander, whose career influenced the architectural profession for more than five decades. Now in its third year, the event recognises individuals who have made lasting contributions to architecture and the built environment.

Opening the lecture, Charles Nduku, President of the South African Council for the Architectural Profession, reflected on Alexander’s legacy. Having served alongside him on the board of the South African Institute of Architects (SAIA), Nduku described Alexander as a respected voice whose influence was rooted in knowledge, integrity and commitment to the profession.

Charles Nduku, President of the South African Council for the Architectural Profession. “His voice on the board carried weight not because it was loud, but because it was grounded in deep knowledge, integrity and respect for the profession. He ensured that architects’ perspectives were never overshadowed in the complex world of construction and project management,” said Nduku.

Donette Werkman, PIA President, noted that the Boogertman name has long been synonymous with architecture in South Africa. Presenting the award, she described the moment as a highlight in her professional journey and acknowledged the firm’s influence on the built environment.

During the event, members of the PIA Practice Committee led a professional development workshop, sharing practical guidance on establishing and managing an architectural practice. Discussions focused on issues such as starting a firm, understanding cost-to-company structures and navigating contracts across professional environments.

Committee chair, Meyer de Beer, highlighted the importance of choosing the right practice structure early in a career. He explained that while sole proprietorships are easy to establish, they carry higher tax implications and personal risk. Partnerships, he said, allow professionals to combine expertise, share responsibilities and distribute income, although partners also share liability for business decisions.

In his key note lecture, Boogertman reflected on the journey that built his practice into one of Africa’s leading architecture studios. Today, Boogertman + Partners operates offices in Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Durban and Kenya, with projects across Africa and the Middle East.

Pretoria Institute for Architecture Practice Committee Workshop Chairperson, Meyer de Beer. Addressing students and young professionals, he spoke candidly about the realities of building a career in architecture. He recalled working part-time throughout his studies while graduating cum laude and navigating difficult periods in the early years of his practice.

Growth, he explained, rarely follows a straight path. From times when paying staff was a challenge to later designing large retail centres, industrial facilities and business hubs across the continent, persistence and dedication shaped his journey.

Encouraging aspiring architects, he advised them to begin wherever opportunities arise and allow their work to build momentum as their reputation grows.

Reflecting on memorable moments in his career, Boogertman recalled the privilege of designing the Maputo home for Mandela and Machel, a project that one of the highlights of his decades-long contribution to architecture.

The 2026 Ian Alexander Memorial Lecture was attended by professionals, industry experts and Master’s students.