A few years ago the Provincial Heritage Resources Authority Gauteng (PHRAG) approved the demolition of the Anton van Wouw House in Doornfontein on the condition that the studio where van Wouw completed many of his famous works was preserved. As word of the demolition spread many people struggled to come to terms with the decision as the Van Wouw House formed part of the Joburg100 list (a list of 100 sites worthy of preservation compiled in the lead up to Johannesburg's centenary celebrations). Below is an excerpt from the report compiled by West Rand Heritage Consultants at the time. It provides fascinating historical snippets and unpacks some of the complexities that made the PHRAG decision such a difficult one.
The Anton van Wouw House with the Alhambra Theatre and the Lion Shull form an important node of historical buildings with architectural significance. However, due to the degrading of the area and increased crime rates, the historical significance of the buildings is under severe threat. The Anton van Wouw House is already in a derelict and inhabitable state. Restoration of the house requires a considerable amount of money to make it usable again, the costs of which the owner will not be able to recover through leasing or selling of the property. The small scale of the house makes it also no longer an economic proposition that matches 21st century property values in the area, especially in view of the redevelopment plan for the area.
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