We are delighted to host Mark Thomas for a school talk this Thursday, 15 May, from 1pm to 2 pm SAST. The talk, titled ‘Building Bridges and Benches’, will focus on a series of interconnected bridges and benches designed by MTA across Southern Africa and the globe.

The firm is inspired by the sculptural brilliance of Luis Barragan and his ability to frame nature; the fluidity and human-scale of Alvar Aalto’s work, and at a local level, the joy of Bert Pepler’s work and detail; the brilliance of Jack Barnett’s Baxter theatre; and the smooth and experienced design ability of Geoff George, with whom MTA used to share offices.

In terms of material use there is an ongoing respect for the joy of thick carved walls, raw brick, rough timber, concrete, windows that open wide, doors that slide away completely, stone and natural materials.