Working alongside Mieke Droomer to photograph a series of her projects was both fun and inspiring. Her talent for blending functionality with design, while preserving the soul of each space, made every shoot memorable.
Our first stop was a charming 1960s home in Stellenbosch. Mieke’s brief was straightforward yet impactful: “Keep true to the mid-century modern style of the house, yet modernise it for today’s family.” Through careful design interventions, she breathed fresh life into each room, honouring its original character while updating it for modern living—a balance that was truly rewarding to capture.
Next, we headed to Du Toitskloof Wines, where Mieke transformed several key areas of the property. This large-scale project included upgrades to the tasting room, bathrooms, and even reimagining the flow of the entrances & parking lot. The bathroom transformation, in particular, stood out to me as a personal favourite—a perfect example of Mieke’s attention to detail and flair for stylish, functional updates.
Finally, we shot an office space on Kanetvlei Farm, where Mieke had carefully altered and refurbished an old “werf” cottage. By enhancing the space’s functionality while preserving its historical essence, she achieved a striking fusion of old and new.
Documenting these projects brought to life Mieke’s unique approach to architecture, each shot reflecting her dedication to thoughtful, transformative design. I’m looking forward to seeing how these projects are received in the competition!