In celebration of Women’s Month, we’re thrilled to spotlight incredible women whose work has profoundly influenced our design philosophy and practice. We’re excited to feature two of our talented architects, Jenna-Lee Meyer and Natasha Boshoff, as they reveal their personal sources of design inspiration. Each of these exceptional women has made significant contributions to the field of architecture, and their stories reflect a deep connection to both their craft and the architects who inspire them.
Jenna-Lee Meyer and Her Architectural Muse: Frida Escobedo
Jenna-Lee Meyer is a distinguished Architect (PrArch) at ACOARCH Studio, known for her pivotal role in high-profile projects such as the Mantuli Luxury Estate and Mantuli Gateway in Zanzibar, as well as luxury residential developments in Mauritius. Her architectural journey began with a passion for integrating modern designs with local landscapes, evolving into a career marked by innovation and a refined aesthetic sense. With a Masters Degree in Architecture from NMMU, Port Elizabeth, Jenna-Lee’s work reflects a commitment to creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically striking.
“Through my journey as an architect, Frida Escobedo stands out as a profound influence. Her innovative use of geometric forms and everyday materials to create timeless, tactile spaces resonates deeply with my own design philosophy. Projects like the Serpentine Pavilion and Mar Tirreno 86 showcase her mastery in blending sustainability with aesthetic appeal. Escobedo’s ability to harness natural light and create dynamic interactions within her spaces reflects the principles I strive to incorporate in my work, combining functionality with elegance”.
Natasha Boshoff and Her Source of Inspiration: Sumayya Vally
Natasha Boshoff is an accomplished Architect with a Masters Degree in Architecture from the University of Witwatersrand, bringing her expertise to ACOARCH Studio. Natasha has been instrumental in developing significant projects, including the Mantuli Luxury Apartments, The Mantuli Threshold, and the captivating Mangrove entrance experience. She is currently applying her design skills to interiors for an upcoming Office and Hospitality project. Natasha’s contributions to architecture are characterised by her innovative approach and dedication to creating impactful designs.
“Sumayya Vally’s architectural approach profoundly resonates with me. Her ability to merge architectural theory with practical design is an inspiring example of holistic practice. Vally’s work challenges traditional spatial relationships and emphasises creating spaces with meaningful narratives, which aligns with my own aspirations. As a fellow Wits University graduate, her global recognition and innovative designs remind me of the impact thoughtful, creative design can achieve. Vally’s work inspires me to push boundaries and craft spaces that tell compelling stories and forge deeper connections”.
Reflecting on Influences and Aspirations
Reflecting on the influences of Frida Escobedo and Sumayya Vally through the eyes of Jenna-Lee Meyer and Natasha Boshoff offers a glimpse into how visionary architects shape and inspire the field. Their admiration for these trailblazing women underscores the powerful impact of innovative thinking and creative exploration in architecture.
As we celebrate these influential figures, we also recognise the ongoing journey of each architect at ACOARCH, driven by a shared commitment to pushing boundaries and crafting spaces that inspire. The legacies of these remarkable women remind us of the profound effect that thoughtful and bold design can have on our world.
