Student work_Postgraduate_Heritage project

The Mamelodi Rondavels

An analysis of the heritage significance of the Mamelodi rondavels according to the Burro charter has determined that they represent the catalytic core of a precinct that acted as an embryonic element of education within Mamelodi West. This precinct has an important agricultural and industrial heritage, both of which have existed since the early development of Mamelodi and which is still expressed today. A negative association to the rondavels exist due to their political connotation and the misinterpretation of cultural identity. However these memories and associations are able to inspire collective identity and when employed correctly can encourage and strengthen future action. Therefore the rondavels exist as important visual local remnants of the historical development and tradition of black education. The tectonic structure of their roofs provides significant potential for architectural reinterpretation by means of adaptive reuse. Specific elements relating to the rondavels, act as mnemonic devices that provide important clues to certain rituals which took place on the site. These clues can inform an appropriate architectural response. The conclusion that can be drawn is that every rondavel has a unique character and that alteration, additions or earlier treatments of their fabric that changed their original appearance contribute to their specific character. Changes that were made to the appearance of the rondavels do not necessarily imply that they are non-authentic and therefore their complete demolition based on this motive is a very naive and self-righteous response. In fact the unique characteristics of each rondavel due to changes that occurred to their original fabric should rather serve to inform or influence an appropriate architectural response.