GASS, located in Johannesburg, South Africa, was launched in 2004 (previously trading under W Design) by Georg van Gass PrArch. The ethos of the practice is to create quality designs from inception to built form; to design works that meet the client's needs and budget; to craft objects and buildings that are environmentally sensitive; to produce built works that reflect and enhance the region.GASS philosophy is to create liveable, usable spaces that enhance and compliment the client's lifestyle or workplace needs. We strive to create fine works of architecture that are still rational and practical, rather than create awkward, unusable spaces in the service of monumental architectural showpieces. We work closely with the client offering personalised service from conceptual design until the end of the construction process, ensuring that the client's physical and budgetary requirements are met.Furthermore, we aim to incorporate sustainable environmental practices into all our designs, as we believe it would be ecologically and financially irresponsible to do otherwise. We examine all opportunities to incorporate "green" design from simple applications such as passive solar measures and response to climate, to more technical applications like specifying recycled flooring products and alternatives to conventional heating methods. In addition, we strive to achieve an aesthetic reflective of our country and site-specific atmosphere by using local materials, colours, and textures while still retaining a contemporary expression that augments the way we live and work in the modern world.