The architectural heritage value of Modernist Afrikaans Protestant churches in Tshwane

Abstract

There is a gap for the documentation of heritage interiors in Tshwane. Together with heritage interiors, the value of the modern movement built fabric is also underrepresented. In the past, various conservation issues have impacted the potential and value of our modern movement heritage. The study investigates the heritage layer of modern movement Afrikaans Protestant churches. This typology remains as a rare, well-preserved illustration of original modernist interior designs. In the form of a heritage survey, a selection of 8 sites within Tshwane is analysed to determine the current value of these structures. Various analysis forms and matrices are employed to arrive at qualitative conclusions. The result serves as a timeline of the development of the modern movement, the Afrikaner identity and the Afrikaans Protestant religion. The study finds that an imbalance exists between expert value and community value, and that social success of the churches often means alterations to the heritage fabric. The universal language, however, still remaining, is the spiritual experience inside the church walls. The risk to the layer is not a lack of appreciation but documentation and awareness. The study aims to serve as precedent for further interpretive, qualitative interior heritage studies to follow. The intention is to create a foundation for further documentation and conservation discussions, ultimately aiding in preserving the city's architectural heritage.