Cape Dutch Architecture: A Cultural Trek and Long-lasting Legacy
Cape Dutch architecture is a reflection of the history and identity of South Africa. Emerging during the Dutch colonial period in the 17th and 18th centuries, this unique style continues to shape the architectural landscape of South Africa today. In this article, we’ll delve into the characteristics, historical roots, key architects, cultural significance, and touch on the subsequent architectural forms influenced by Cape Dutch architecture.
In recognising the legacy of Cape Dutch architecture, it is essential to acknowledge the rich and beautiful heritage it has bequeathed to South Africa. Despite the complexities associated with the colonial era, the architectural movement left an ineradicable character, weaving together European influences and local adaptations to create a unique cultural narrative.
The beauty of Cape Dutch buildings, with their ornate gables, whitewashed walls, and thatched roofs, stands as a witness to the craftsmanship and the quality of materials used in the building process. It is a showcase of the detailed skills of those who shaped the landscape at the time. Beyond the historical and emotional significance, these structures contribute to the preservation of cultural identity and serve as reminders of the diverse heritage that defines South Africa today.
The Cape Dutch architectural style is defined by the following characteristics:
- Ornate gables
- Whitewashed walls
- Thatched roofing
- Large wooden sash cottage panes
- External wooden shutters
- Long horizontal structures, usually single or double story
- Axisymmetric floor plan, often in T or H shape
- Green detailing often used
- Beautiful surrounding and well kept gardens
Historical Roots:
Cape Dutch architecture is a product of European influence meeting local conditions in the Western Cape. Rooted in the Baroque and Renaissance styles, it adapted to the African landscape, creating an architectural account that connects with the cultural fabric of the region.
Key Architects and Their Masterpieces:
Louis Michel Thibault (1750–1815):
One of the masterpieces designed by Thibault, the chief architect of the Cape Dutch style is Groot Constantia. It represents the birthplace of the South African wine industry. Although the winery was founded in 1685 the cellar and Manor House building as it is today was designed and rebuilt between 1789–1791 by Thibault. In 1969 the manor house became part of the South African Cultural History Museum, and in 1993 the estate passed into the ownership of the Groot Constantia Trust. Today the exhibition in the Manor House focus on rural slavery and the life of slaves during the Cape colonial period. Groot Constantia continues to produce high quality wines and dessert wines. On a side note: The Grand Constance is my personal favourite dessert wine; if you appreciate dessert wines you will find it unbeatable. 🥂
Another very notable project by Thibault is The Drostdy Hotel, built in 1804. In the late 1870s, after a period of use as a private residence, the building began its life as a hotel. It changed hands a number of times over the next century and was altered considerably. In the late 1970s the Oudemeester Group acquired the building and began a huge renovation. In 2014 the Drostdy Hotel was refurbished and transformed into a 5 star facility. Subsequently the achievements of the professional team were recognised when the hotel won the South African Property Owners Association’s overall heritage award the following year.
Herman Schutte (1760–1827):
Afrikaans for “Great Church” it is a Dutch Reformed Church in Cape Town and South Africa’s oldest place of Christian worship, built in 1841. The first church on this piece of land was built in 1678. It was replaced by the present building in 1841, but the original tower was retained. It houses South Africa’s largest church organ, which was installed in 1954. Its architecture boasts a peculiar combination of Greek and Gothic styles. Sculptor Anton Anreith made the extraordinary pulpit, which rests on a pedestal of lions and adds to the great architectural features of the building. Anton Anreith contributed to the Cape Dutch style with his sculptures in other projects such as the Kat Balcony in the Castle of Good Hope. The Groote Kerk historic building continue in use today both as a museum and as an active Afrikaans church with weekly worship services.
Example of Cape Dutch Architectures in Towns
Stellenbosch, Tulbagh, Swellendam, Paarl and Graaff Reinet have the best examples of Cape Dutch architecture.
Established in 1685, the charming town of Stellenbosch still contains a number of well-preserved Cape Dutch buildings that were subsequently developed during the 19th century.
Surrounding wine estates have beautiful old Cape Dutch homesteads such as Boschendal and Vergelegen that are still open to visitors today and produce excellent wines and some of the world’s finest olive oil.
The manor house at Boschendal is one of my favourite places to visit when I travel to South Africa; arguably it’s a most attractive example of Cape Dutch architecture. The current manor house was built in 1812. Here you can see the manor house, mainly from outside, sample their wines, enjoy their traditional Cape restaurant or enjoy a picnic in their beautiful idillic grounds. Boschendal lies between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
Subsequent Architectural Forms Influenced by Cape Dutch Architecture:
Following Union in 1910, the Cape Dutch Revival style became very popular as a South African vernacular style. Unlike real Cape Dutch Architecture, the Cape Dutch Revival style is defined almost exclusively by ornate gables. The rise in popularity of the Cape Dutch Revival style led to a renewed interest in Cape Dutch architecture and many original Cape Dutch buildings were restored during this period.
Architects continue to draw inspiration from Cape Dutch architecture today, incorporating its distinctive features into modern designs. This revival pays homage to the historical roots while adapting to contemporary needs. The success of Groot Constantia has influenced the architecture of modern wineries as far as in Australia and New Zealand. Thatched roofs, gables, and whitewashed walls are integrated to create winery spaces that blend tradition with innovation.
More recently Bosjes Chapel by Steyn Studio won Project of the Year in 2019 A+Awards
In this small pavilion and chapel space, form and massing sculpturally respond to the natural configuration of its mountain backdrop. The site’s dramatic surroundings have given the area the nickname of ‘Little Switzerland.’ As the team notes, typically, Cape Dutch Manor houses set up a dialogue with these types of environments, as found in Stellenbosch and Cape Town. The design’s inspiration is readily seen in its concise and graceful section drawings.
