NH Kerk - Waterkloofpark (Pretoria-Oos)

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Aka: Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk (Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa)

Built: 1972

Architect: Hendrik Vermooten

Building contractor: Weeshuis-bouers

Location: Dely Rd, Waterkloofpark.

View from north (1974)¹

The congregation had grown and increased in numbers to such an extent that the church building in Lynnwood Road could no longer provide sufficient accommodation. Consequently, plans were made and undertaken to erect a larger church building. Suitable land was sought, and the best location found was the site in Waterkloofpark. The location of the building is something special. There is no possibility of street noise or parking problems.

Four large erfs were subsequently purchased, each 40,000 sq. ft. The site cost R36,000.00. In c.1972 the Weeshuis-bouers, under the supervision of the architect, Elder Hendrik Vermooten, and the building commission of the church council, began construction.

There is seating for 600 members, with plenty of space to place extra chairs when necessary. Everything was planned and executed as conveniently as possible for the orderly conduct of Sunday worship, the administration of the holy sacraments, catechism, youth work, the sisters' organization, and all possible congregational activities.

The space for the celebration of Holy Communion was planned for ninety-four members at each table. The gallery was omitted. Despite the large floor space, the acoustics are excellent throughout. There are no visual obstructions or blind spots in the building; everyone can see and hear the preacher.

A new system was introduced whereby a person who is hard of hearing can choose any seat in the church. The organ was designed by Mr. Mathlemer, secretary of the Council for Church Music. It is a three-manual organ that cost R24,000.00. The organ was placed opposite the pulpit. The consistory and portal are partitioned off with sliders and divided into a number of smaller spaces for classes. For various congregational functions and activities, the consistory hall can accommodate several hundred people without the partitions. There is also a kitchen and projection room in the consistory section.

The garden around the building and its planting took place under the direction of Prof. Robbertse, professor of horticulture and an elder of the congregation.

Locality map

Sources

  1. Le Roux, L.M. (1974) Pretoria Oos. Die Hervormer, Oct 1974.

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