The Dynamite Press : a publishing house and book village in a historical and industrial precinct (Modderfontein) in northeast Johannesburg

Abstract

The study has investigated a design intervention to the historically significant industrial precinct of Modderfontein. Modderfontein contains the first dynamite explosives factory in South Africa and is situated 20km northeast of Johannesburg. The area and its old buildings are relatively unknown. Due to the introduction of the Gautrain and the proposed development of the Modderfontein station and surrounds, the area will be densified and become more accessible. The intention of the framework proposed by the author is to activate the Main Street which contains the First Factory Manager’s house and the Dynamite Company Museum. This would be achieved by densifying the village with a series of buildings in clusters that have public, office and residential components. It is proposed that one of the clusters becomes a Book Village. The proposal will adhere to the various guidelines in a sensitive, contemporary manner.