Buffalo Volunteer Rifles
The Buffalo Volunteer Rifles Regimental Museum has a history that spans over a century. The Museum is recognized as a South African heritage building and one of the oldest in East London.
The intention from the outset was to restore the building to its original character. Thorough research was undertaken to ensure that crucial elements of the building were salvaged. Ironmongery, artwork and timber panelling were just a few of the items successfully reintroduced into the Museum. The most challenging part of the project was the restoration of the large Drill Hall. The large lattice trusses had been severely weakened over time due to water ingress and rot. Areas that had experienced excessive damage were assessed and carefully replaced in order to restore the hall to its former glory.
The final result is a beautifully crafted Museum that addresses the requirements of the client without compromising the integrity of the original design.
My responsibilities included:
- Involved in the design, detailing and site administration of the museum.
- Local statutory documentation
- Traced site-specific moldings to scale for reinstatement along the new facade.
My responsibilities included:
- Involved in the design, detailing and site administration of the museum.
- Local statutory documentation
- Traced site-specific moldings to scale for reinstatement along the new facade.
Location
East London, South Africa
Architects
Smale & Partners Architects
Client
NDPW
Programme
Museum
Completion
2016
Photography
Calvin Gillmer & Google Earth
“The final result is a beautifully crafted Museum that addresses the client's requirements without compromising the integrity of the original design.”