Brakdak House
Karoo, South Africa 

Research and restoration
2016

As part of a larger body of research into the lost South African building tradition of ‘Brakdak’ (a vernacular rammed earth technique) houses. Djernes & Bell were involved in the surveying and restoration of Akkedis brakdak cottage located in the Swartberg, Karoo, one of the worlds most ancient landscapes.

The research was inspired by South Africa’s most loved modernist and heritage experts, couple Gawie and Gwen Fagan, who carried out a body of photographic survey of Brakdak building in the 60’s. Djernes & Bell tried to locate and pinpoint any surving houses. 

Djernes & Bell research into Brakdak buildings was funded by the Statens Kunst Fond.