Meet the founders

In 2022, STUDIO THREE21 and Hester Steph Architecture & Design formally joined forces to collaborate on larger-scale projects throughout the Cape Peninsula and beyond. This partnership represents a shared vision: to craft architecture that is both enduring and deeply responsive—to place, to people, and to possibility

Our Founders

HEster Stephanie Potgieter

cindi janse van vuuren

Cindi Janse van Vuuren graduated with a Masters in Architecture from the University of Pretoria. Driven by a desire to be immersed in a progressive and design-forward environment, she relocated to Cape Town shortly thereafter. She began her professional journey at KUBE Architecture, under the creative leadership of Simon Mountford and Stefan Rademan. During her time there, she developed a deep appreciation for both the artistry and technical discipline of architecture in the Western Cape context. Having gained broad and meaningful experience across all facets of the profession, Cindi founded STUDIO THREE21 in March 2022—a practice grounded in detail, collaboration, and the pursuit of architectural excellence.

Hester Steph Architecture & Design was a Cape Town-based studio led by director Stephanie Potgieter. Since its establishment in 2013, the practice has undertaken a diverse portfolio of work, with a strong emphasis on high-quality residential architecture across varying scales. With over 13 years of experience in the fi elds of public and private architecture, urban design, and construction management, Stephanie brings a wealth of knowledge to each project. Prior to founding Hester Steph Architecture & Design, she co-directed Hester Hanna Architecture and worked on the design and realisation of civic architecture under the guidance of Dr. Kathryn Ewing. Stephanie’s expertise extends deeply into site and contractor coordination — ensuring that design intent is preserved throughout the construction process. She graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Cape Town and has been a registered professional architect (Pr. Arch 22170) with SACAP since 2011.