NEWMAN has evolved over the years to specialise in a range of design projects.
We offer various professional design services; from architecture, interior architecture and interior decoration and installation.
Our portfolio shows a mixture of renovations and new build projects ranging from bespoke private homes, restaurants, school buildings, sport pavilions, shops and small scale commercial buildings.
Our team is hands-on with all projects, and we place great importance on providing a comprehensive service that delivers projects that are able to move harmoniously through time.
Our principle design philosophy places emphasis on timeless aesthetics, lifestyle, comfort and durability. Clean lines and simplicity of design mark the finished projects.
Founding Partner
Karen Newman
Karen Newman launched NEWMAN upon her return from London in 1996, where she started her career as an architect.
In South Africa she has drawn inspiration from the wealth of vernacular architectural references, the big sky environment and the variety of clients that have worked with her.
Karen believes that good architecture should not blindly follow trends; that the essence of successful design lies in understanding the real needs of the client and interpreting them creatively. Karen has built a strong team around her, and Newman Architecture & Design strives to create buildings that are sensitive to their surroundings, enhance the space that they occupy, and are mindful of the needs of those who will inhabit them. This sound design philosophy is reflected in numerous projects throughout South Africa and beyond.
B Build (1987 – UPE)
B Arch (1989 – UPE)
Registered Architect in United Kingdom (ARB)
Registered Architect in South Africa (SA Council for Architectural Professionals)
Member of the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects)
Member of SA Institute of Architects
Member of the Cape Town Institute of Architects
Interior Design (NMMU – 2008)
Masters Interior Design (Florence Design Academy – 2011)
Partner
Tamsyn Bowren
Tamsyn Bowren brings over a decade of design expertise to NEWMAN studio, where she’s been a key player since 2014. With a Master’s degree in Interior Architecture from Florence, Italy, Tamsyn offers a comprehensive turn-key service that seamlessly integrates every design element – from floors and walls to lighting, joinery, and furnishings. Her passion lies in distilling the architect’s vision and the client’s needs into spaces that are both beautiful and functional.
Tamsyn’s design philosophy is centered around crafting environments that reflect her clients’ unique personalities and passions. She strives to create spaces that feel familiar, yet inspiring – places where people can live, work, and thrive with joy and ease.
With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of what makes a building truly special, Tamsyn & Karen are dedicated to delivering design solutions that stand the test of time.
Newman Team
Architecture
Karen Newman
Tamsyn Bowren
Claire Bergh
Judy Newby
John Alves
Tiffany Finlay
Sheldon De Bruyn
Edwina Baker
Thelouise Van der Merwe
Annali Vlok
Kyla Smit
Interior Design
Karen Smit
Elmarie Smith
Holly Main