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Menu Home Upfront Now Up Books Towns Structures People Firms Lexicon VAN DER MERWE MISZEWSKI, Anya Born: Architect Anya VAN DER MERWE MISZEWSKI together with Macio MISZEWSKI was the Sophia Gray Laureate in 2008. She is one of the directors of VAN DER MERWE MISZEWSKI ARCHITECTS. 1981 Bachelor of Architectural Studies (BAS) University of Cape Town 1984 Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch.Dist) University of Cape Town (Degree and Thesis awarded with Distinction) 1987 Architectural Association Graduate Diploma in History and Theory (AAGradDip) ARB Member of Architects Registration Board of the United Kingdom MIA/Pr. Arch Member of Institute of South African Architects SACAP Registered as a Professional Architect with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession 2009 Adjunct Professor of Architecture at University of Cape Town Awarded the Gold Medal for Architecture in 2026. Citation: Throughout a remarkable career as an architect, educator, leader and mentor, Anya van der Merwe has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to design excellence, intellectual rigour and the advancement of the profession. As co-founder and former director of Van der Merwe Miszewski Architects, she has contributed to a distinguished body of work spanning housing, education, commercial projects, public spaces and the broader urban realm. Her architecture is characterised by clarity of concept, disciplined execution, and a profound understanding of material, landscape, form and space — shaping a distinctive architectural language that responds intelligently to place and context, and balances innovation with restraint. Beyond her practice, Professor van der Merwe has made a significant contribution to architectural education through teaching, academic engagement and mentorship, influencing successive generations of practitioners. Through leadership within her practice and service to the South African Institute of Architects, including participation in regional committees and awards panels, she has contributed generously to the advancement of architectural excellence, professional standards and discourse in South Africa. The SAIA Gold Medal for Architecture is awarded to Anya van der Merwe in recognition of an exceptional contribution to the advancement of architecture in South Africa, an outstanding body of architectural work, and distinguished leadership in both practice and education. Submitted by William Martinson.