Architecture, Organised
Archinet is a digital commons for South African architects. Bringing together tools, resources, and conversations across every stage of practice. It exists to reduce friction, share knowledge, and support better architecture through a connected professional community.
Who We Are
Archinet is a digital platform developed by Independent Architectural Services (IAS); a South African architectural support practice focused on strengthening the built environment through practical services, systems, and shared knowledge.
IAS works closely with architects and built-environment professionals, supporting practice across design, documentation, compliance, coordination, and delivery. Through this work, a consistent challenge became clear: valuable knowledge, tools, and resources within the profession are fragmented, repetitive, and often inaccessible, particularly to smaller practices and emerging professionals.
Archinet was developed in response to this gap.
Our Intention
Archinet exists to reduce friction in architectural practice by bringing together community, tools, learning, and resources into a single, structured digital environment aligned with the recognised stages of architectural work. It is intended as a shared professional space, not a replacement for practice, but a support system that makes practice more efficient, informed, and connected.
Our Background
The platform was conceived and developed in South Africa through direct engagement with the realities of local practice; including fee pressure, administrative burden, compliance complexity, and the absence of locally relevant digital infrastructure. Archinet began as a modest internal initiative and evolved into a public platform designed to serve the broader profession.
Launched as a living project, Archinet will continue to grow incrementally, shaped by professional input, industry needs, and practical use.
Looking Ahead
his is only the beginning. Archinet will expand over time to include deeper tools, richer resources, and new ways for professionals, suppliers, and collaborators to engage meaningfully. Through both IAS’s professional services and the ongoing development of Archinet, we remain committed to contributing positively to the architectural profession and supporting better practice, and a stronger industry.
About Archinet
- What is Archinet?
Archinet is a digital platform for South African architects and built-environment professionals, bringing together tools, resources, learning content, and community discussions aligned with the stages of architectural work.
- Who is Archinet for?
Archinet is intended for architects, architectural technologists, students, educators, and other built-environment professionals working in or with the South African context.
- Who runs Archinet?
Archinet is developed and managed by Independent Architectural Services (IAS), a South African architectural support practice.
Accounts & Membership
- Do I need an account to use Archinet?
Some content is publicly accessible, but an account is required to access tools, downloads, discussions, and personalised features.
- Is Archinet free to use?
Yes. Archinet currently offers free access to core content and tools. Additional features, resources, or services may be introduced in future.
- Can I contribute content?
Selected users may be invited to contribute articles, discussions, or resources. All submissions are reviewed before publication.
Tools & Resources
- Are the tools on Archinet legally binding or professionally certified?
No. All tools, calculators, and resources are provided for general guidance only. They do not replace professional judgment, statutory compliance, or formal consultancy services.
- Are the resources aligned with South African standards?
Where applicable, resources reference South African standards and local practice conventions. Users are always responsible for verifying compliance on a project-by-project basis.
- Can I rely on Archinet tools for council submissions?
Archinet tools may assist with early-stage understanding and preparation, but they should not be relied upon as definitive or submission-ready documentation.
Forum & Community
- Who moderates the forum?
The forum is moderated to maintain professionalism, relevance, and respectful engagement. Content that violates guidelines may be edited or removed.
- Can I advertise services or products in the forum?
Promotional content is limited. Any commercial participation must align with Archinet’s community guidelines.
- Is advice given in discussions considered professional advice?
No. Forum discussions reflect individual opinions and experiences and should not be interpreted as professional, legal, or technical advice.
Learning & Media
- Does Archinet offer CPD points?
At present, Archinet does not issue CPD points. This may be explored in future as the platform develops.
- Are podcasts and articles peer-reviewed?
Content is curated and reviewed for relevance and quality, but opinions expressed remain those of the individual contributors.
Future Features
- Will there be a BIM library or store?
Yes. Archinet plans to introduce a curated BIM and resource marketplace, with a focus on locally relevant content.
- Will there be paid features?
Some advanced tools or services may become paid offerings in future. Core access will remain available.
Legal & Privacy
- How is my data handled?
Archinet complies with South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). Personal data is not sold or misused.
- Who owns the content I upload?
Users retain ownership of their original content, while granting Archinet permission to display it on the platform.
- Can my account be removed?
Yes. Users may request account deletion at any time.
Support & Contact
- How do I report an issue or suggest a feature?
You can contact the Archinet team through the contact page or designated feedback forms.
- Is Archinet affiliated with SACAP or any regulatory body?
No. Archinet is an independent platform and is not an official representative of any regulatory authority.
Archinet is developed and managed by Independent Architectural Services (IAS), a South African architectural support practice.
For legal and privacy information, please refer to our Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions, and Disclaimer pages.