In an era dominated by industrial production, which risks overshadowing traditional craftsmanship, bridging the "interstitial" space and time between them poses a challenge for innovative design practices. Even more so in postcolonial contexts like that of South Africa.
The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) was the first South African institution invited to the Salone Satellite. The 26th Salone Satellite was held in 2025 at the Rho Fiera in Milan, Italy. Salone Satellite is a prestigious platform for designers under 35, which was launched in 1998. It is integrated within Salone del Mobile and universities are invited to exhibit alongside the young designers. The Department of Architecture and Industrial Design (Arch+ID) of TUT responded under the 2025 theme Nuovo Artigianato: Un Mondo Nuovo (New Craftsmanship: A New World). The exhibition, prepared by architecture students and lecturers, celebrated South Africa's diverse cultural heritage by combining Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) with cutting-edge technologies.
Titled Interstitiality, the exhibition's primary aim was to explore and demonstrate how traditional craft and industrial methods come together. Students were tasked with reimaging five iconic South African artefacts to honour heritage while exploring their manufacture through contemporary techniques.
This landmark participation decolonises architectural design education, while elevating South African creativity to a global stage. It explores how technology can be used to preserve cultural narratives.
Within the context of the exhibition, Interstitiality is defined as the dynamic relationship between craftsmanship and industrial precision. The exhibition is based on Marc-Antoine Laugier's 1753 "primitive hut" metaphor.
The students learnt various lessons from preparing, transporting, erecting, and dismantling the exhibition. The act of making formed an integral part of their learning experience. The digital re-fabrication of symbolic artefacts (a spear for protection, a doll for femininity, a headrest for life-death transition, a beer pot for communal rituals, a rhinoceros for wildlife heritage) within a mechanically dynamic, primitive hut produces hybrid designs that blend originality and innovation.
Employing a collaborative, student-led methodology, the project utilised Rhino 3D CAD, Blender, AutoCAD and CorelDRAW. Digital fabrication using laser cutting, CNC routing, 3D printing, engraving, and jewellery crafting allowed students to engage firsthand with materials such as softwood, Perspex, dual-colour PLA, brass, Rowmark, and gold leaf. The resultant product is a 24m² exhibition stand with a "primitive hut' that moves mechanically. The hut is enfolded with walls positioned according to the proportions of the golden-section-anchored, oscillating hut, featuring a Norman Eaton-inspired floor and Credo Mutwa symbols.
Results showcased a unique installation that drew international acclaim, validating the innovative teaching approach of TUT's Department of Architecture and Industrial Design. Furthermore, it positions TUT as a leader in global design discourse.

Keywords: Architectural Design Education, Craftsmanship, Exhibition, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, Industrial Production, Interstitiality, Primitive Hut, Salone Satellite, South Africa.