Around the time that I heard about the competition, I recall hearing that the mullet was making a comeback. With this in mind, I read the brief and thought about the classic attributes of the hairstyle - 'Business at the front, party at the back’. I thought this would be a great concept for a home.

Being from South Africa, I was inspired by the barbershop murals you see back home. I love the way the murals use characters and objects to sell a hairstyle as if it was a lifestyle choice. Using this as inspiration, I wanted my artwork to tell a story in an almost cheesy way, using 80's iconography to combine the barbershop mural with a pop-art nostalgia.

The main character in my artwork is Arnold. Like most people, he had to sacrifice a lot during the pandemic and he had to slim down his operations in order for his business to survive. But he found a way, he converted his garage into an office and now runs the business out of his home. He even found a new hairstyle, one that is easy to maintain and makes him stand out from the crowd.

Can you tell us about you and your background?

Originally from South Africa, I moved to the UK in 2012 following the completion of my Masters' degree In Architecture. During my time here, I have worked in mostly the retail and hospitality design sectors. In September last year I was made redundant and I have been working freelance ever since. It's not all gloom and doom as I have recently been offered a lead design role with a hospitality brand and I start my new job In May.

What inspired your artwork?

The mullet. Business at the front, party at the back - It's the perfect haircut for times like these.

Can you tell us about your process and approach to responding to the competition theme, and perhaps your favourite aspect?

When I started thinking about a concept, I was mindful that the design should be in poster format. From the beginning, I wanted to create an artwork that was light-hearted and uplifting. I didn't want to go too far down the road of creating an amazingly designed space but rather a bit of light humour for the viewer. A lot of my artwork is satirical and sarcastic as I think these are two attributes that sum up my personality.

What drew you to the competition & how does it feel being awarded?

As I was not working, I had a lot of free time on my hands. I scoured the Internet for Architecture competitions to bolster my portfolio and keep me busy. I was attracted to enter this competition as I enjoy painting and drawing in my spare time. When I found out I made the shortlist, I was over the moon and when I saw the other entries, I was convinced my entry would not go any further, so I am thrilled to be one of the winners.

What do you particularly love about architecture and what attracted you to the profession?

I love the problem-solving element of design and creating solutions that are technically resolved, sustainable and responsive to the users needs. My first attraction to the profession was probably when I was 10 years old. My mom designed her own home and I remember sitting in meetings with the architect and peering over the floor plans with amazement.

Do you have a favourite architect, designer or artist whose work inspires you?

Glenn Murcutt - I love design which considers the site as the most important factor to design around. Jean-Michel Basquiat - He was a genius and left this earth too soon.

How would you describe your own profession artistic/design style?

Satirical, political, and not safe for work.