Greg Straw oversees both the grounds and the Blaauwklippen Family Market, bringing his signature vision to every corner of Blaauwklippen.
Greg Straw is a renowned South African landscape architect and horticulturist, celebrated for his innovative approach to landscape design and his commitment to environmental restoration. With a National Diploma in Horticulture and a B.Tech in Landscape Architecture, Straw has cultivated a career that seamlessly blends artistic vision with ecological sensitivity.
Straw has led numerous high-profile projects across South Africa and internationally. His portfolio includes the design and construction of Nelson Mandela’s memorial gardens in Qunu and Houghton, showcasing his ability to create spaces that honour cultural heritage while embracing natural beauty.
Straw's international experience spans countries such as Israel, Jordan, Cyprus, Seychelles, Zambia, Mozambique, Mauritius, and Costa Rica, reflecting his adaptability and global perspective in landscape architecture.
In 2013, Straw founded the Fourways Farmers Market, envisioning a space where community, nature, and commerce converge. What began as a modest market has evolved into Johannesburg's largest farmers market, now located within the Modderfontein Nature Reserve. The market offers a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can enjoy artisanal foods, crafts, and live entertainment amidst lush gardens.
Straw's design ethos centres on creating sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing landscapes. He emphasises the importance of integrating natural elements with human-made structures, ensuring that each project harmonises with its environment. His work often involves habitat restoration, demonstrating a commitment to ecological preservation.
Through his innovative designs and community initiatives, Greg Straw has significantly influenced the landscape architecture field in Southern Africa. His projects not only enhance the visual appeal of spaces but also promote environmental sustainability and community engagement.