Waterkloof Primary School Extensions

HLMSV have been the architects for Waterkloof Primary School since the early 1990s, during which time we've developed the masterplan for the school and its adjacent sport fields, built a new administration wing and a new senior school and most recently designed and supervised the construction of a new technology centre.
Waterkloof Primary School has particular design significance; it was the prototype National Building Research project in the 1950s, influencing every new school built over the subsequent 40 years. It was important therefore that we retained the ethos of the original buildings, maintaining the use of brick and metal roofs while enhancing the zoning and circulation routes. On every project, environmental control, sustainability and maximizing budgets were also key considerations.
The technology centre doubles as a sports pavilion and has a terraced upper level, for spectators and so children can carry out projects during school hours. Technology is visibly emphasised by displaying all mechanical and electrical services. Like the original school, the technology centre is likely to be seminal in the construction of future facilities at primary schools across South Africa.