Sophia van der Meulen

With a heritage steeped in architecture, Sophia's journey into the design world was almost predestined. Raised in an environment where creativity and precision were revered, she inherited a passion for crafting spaces that evoke emotion and inspire connection. Growing up in South Africa her childhood dreams oscillated between becoming a game ranger or an architect, she ultimately followed in the footsteps of both her father and grandfather.

 

Sophia's deep connection with nature has always been a driving force, influencing her desire to bring the exterior world into the interior spaces she designs. Her favourite place is in the African bush, where she can truly be present in the moment, and it is this sense of presence that she aims to convey through her designs. She seeks to craft immersive experiences that reconnect individuals with nature, spirituality, and self.

 

After earning her Master of Architecture with top honors from the University of Pretoria, Phia joined her father-in-law's renowned practice, Nico van der Meulen Architects. Here, she gained hands-on experience and international exposure, refining her skills as a project and interior architect. Over the past 18 years, she has demonstrated a wide range of capabilities, including project management, strategic decision-making, team leadership, creative strategy development, cost management, technical documentation, and contract management. In 2019, her outstanding contributions to the field were recognized when she was nominated for the SAPSA Woman Professional of the Year in South Africa.

 

Alinea Design Studio, founded by Sophia and Rudolph in 2019, has been influenced by their five years in Barcelona, Spain. This experience deepened their understanding of community and the transformative power of architecture. Phia emphasizes purpose-driven design, where luxury, sustainability, and social responsibility converge seamlessly. Through Alinea, they craft spaces that inspire and connect, mindful of their impact on human experience and the environment.