Redefining Namibian architecture from concept to landmark

Their firm’s philosophy, inherited from founder Leon Barnard, is rooted in minimalism, where the building is not the focus, but rather the space it creates.“We want our architecture to be memorable and simple enough that someone can sketch it in two minutes,” says Mutua. “That’s how you know it works."Mutua, when asked what drives their work, passion and purpose, he quickly adds that without passion, architecture becomes exhausting: “It’s sometimes a thankless job.”With a portfolio that reads like a who’s who of iconic Namibian architecture, Mutua Scriba has left its mark on the landscape, from the City of Windhoek headquarters to Old Mutual, Agribank, NUST’s postgraduate and health sciences buildings, and the Eros Airport Control Tower. The team even has footprints in Angola, Ethiopia and South Africa.Scriba shares insight into their evolution: “The firm started in 1996. We renamed it Mutua Scriba to reflect who’s behind it.”With projects ranging from residential developments in Auasblick to major commercial high-rises and hospitality spaces, Scriba explains that the real value lies in how spaces connect with nature. “Namibians are beginning to expect more from architecture. People are appreciating courtyards, gardens, and that blend between inside and outside living.”One standout project that embodies this ethos is The Village, where our interview took place. “It’s simple architecture that allows nature to lead,” says Scriba. “Our buildings become the backdrop.”ReawakeningOn the future of Namibian architecture, both architects agree that the sector is waking up again. With government spending and private investments on the rise post-pandemic, the demand for quality, nature-integrated spaces is growing. And Mutua Scriba is already rising to the challenge, breaking ground on the Namfisa headquarters on Independence Avenue, “an expression of our core philosophy,” Mutua notes.For aspiring architects, Mutua offers tough love advice: “Be good at one thing. That’s your ticket into a firm. When I started, I was hired not because of my portfolio, but because I mastered one software that others didn’t.”He emphasises humility, patience and being open to criticism. “Architecture is all about learning through critique.”Whether you're passionate about design, curious about Namibian architecture, or just love beautiful buildings, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Catch the full episode of My.na Property at 21H00 tonight, only on NTV.

Redefining Namibian architecture from concept to landmark

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Republikein 2025-08-05

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Redefining Namibian architecture from concept to landmark

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