Tswaing, a place of commemoration and reminiscence : making the natural environment accessible to all

Abstract

The Tswaing Meteorite Crater, formed 220 000 years ago, on the farm of Zoutpan, (or also known as the Pretoria Saltpan), had been a topographic and geological riddle for a long period of time. The gathering of salt from the crater was its main attraction for many groups that flocked to the crater, which later became an important beacon of infrastructure, becoming the largest producer of Soda and Salt in the Transvaal in the early 1900’s. Knowledge is an intangible quality of the cultural landscape and its history which can be lost in the blink of an eye if it is not preserved, commemorated and conserved for future generations. Through the investigation of Inclusive Design and the application of its principles, the narrative which is Tswaing, can be made accessible to all by revealing the concealed narrative of the place, tangible and intangible, through time. The afterthought or lack of design for disabled individuals can be seen in many projects. By ensuring accessibility is part of the design process from the onset of the project, valuable resources are not needlessly wasted later. As a result the cultural landscape and its secrets can be uncovered and shared with all.