Obituary
It is with immense sadness that the South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) national office informs members of the passing of Arch. Emile Paulsen, SAIA's past Executive: Practice and CPD.
Emile was a part-time lecturer at the Department of Architecture and Industrial Design at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) specialising in professional architectural practice subjects. He was also the Principal of Emile Paulsen Architect which he established in 2014.
Emile joined the PIA, a Region of SAIA, in 2012 where he served as an active member of the Practice Committee since 2014.
In 2017, Emile joined the SAIA National Practice Committee and served voluntarily on number of SAIA and PIA task teams and sub-committees initiatives such as; the PROCSA drafting committee for the compilation of the professional service agreements, assessment of the curriculum and standards for the SACAP Professional Practice Examination (PPE), PIA task team to oversee the new national standards and protocols for the Building Information Technology and Modelling (BIT and BIM) for SAIA National, PIA task team for the re-drafting of the SAIA Client Architect Agreement, review of the 1999-2007 SAIA Practice Manual which resulted in the conversion to the 2018 SAIA Compendium of Practice Guidelines.
In 2020, Emile was commissioned to update and re-author the SAIA SACAP Professional Practice Examination (PPE) study aid. As a specialist in this area, Emile became well-known as the presenter of the PIA, SACAP PPE Preparation Course workshops which he presented to SACAP registered candidates.
Arch. Dr Gillian Adendorff, Chair of the SAIA National Practice committee wrote the following words, acknowledging Emile's contribution to the architectural profession.
"Emile Paulsen was an exceptional individual whose contributions to the South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) are deeply valued. His dedication, passion, and commitment to the field of architecture has left an indelible mark on our organisation and the architectural community at large" and added that 'beyond his professional achievements, Emile will be remembered for his warmth, humility, and willingness to mentor and support others in their professional growth. He touched the lives of many, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion".
Emile will be remembered for the pivotal role that he played in shaping the professional standards and policies of SAIA. His profound knowledge has enriched the practice of architecture, assisting countless architects and professionals to reach new heights in their careers.
(SAIA Newsflash 2023 08 02) |