Built Environment
Overview
Makers Valley was developed in the early industrial era which began in Johannesburg in the late 19th century, sparked by the discovery of gold in Witwatersrand. Many of the area’s warehouses and factories date back to this period, with features of Victorian and Edwardian architecture. The 20th century saw the expansion of industry as well as the development of formal neighbourhoods. Makers Valley is a residential area and industrial area, interspersed with parks, schools and amenities. The area is characterised by the presence of street art in the form of murals, which often have local historical, cultural and social themes. It has mosques, churches and temples as well as local primary and secondary schools and a daycare creche nursery.
Homes built around this period were typically single-family dwellings, modestly sized apartment buildings and duplexes. Today, multiple families can live in single-family households with approximately 10 people in a two-bedroom home and 25 people in a house designed for five. The houses are typically single to double-story, of reinforced concrete and masonry construction with pitched roofs. Apartment blocks are generally of reinforced concrete frame structure with masonry panel infills. Homes in Makers Valley are generally built for summer weather and not well insulated, which can make the winter months difficult.
There are communal spaces between the sections of the building and many residential buildings feature a small garden or composting area. Often gardens are filled with informal housing structures, as a means for additional income and housing. There is a public park, Bezuidenhout Park, northeast of Victoria Yards. The park has a football pitch which is used at the weekend for local matches and there is also a day centre for children. The Jukskei River runs through the park and the park is generally avoided at night.
Current situation
Mixed-use spaces like Victoria Yards, where cultural and commercial activities coexist, are essential to the well-being of a community. In Makers Valley, some historic buildings have been repurposed into workshops, galleries, and studios, while places like Skills Village utilize disused shipping containers alongside traditional masonry and concrete structures. Gearhouse South Africa features modern construction materials such as reinforced concrete, steel, and glass. However, redevelopment can often lead to gentrification, where once-neglected areas become trendy, attracting wealthier residents and driving up the cost of living. This can result in the displacement of the existing community. To address this, Makers Valley seeks to mitigate the impacts of gentrification by creating employment opportunities, such as repurposing existing buildings into creative, design, and workspaces to support local residents.
RELEVANT CASE STUDIES
Take a look at the following case studies for more information and ideas. As you explore this area and the perspectives from the case studies, consider how the built environment interconnects with other challenges identified by the community.
Christinah Ngoy who works at Timbuktu in the Valley—an organization dedicated to providing local youth with a safe learning environment where they can develop skills and receive academic support—discusses the impact of infrastructure on life in Makers Valley.
Johanna Monama Makers Valley Partnership Uplift Manager, discusses the issues with abandoned buildings in Makers Valley.
Nqobile Shabalala an intern at Engineers Without Borders South Africa, highlights that developments such as Victoria Yards are a source of hope for Makers Valley.
Projects
1. Old building renovations
In Makers Valley, numerous abandoned buildings stand as untapped resources amidst a growing housing crisis. Repurposing these structures offers a potential solution to the critical housing shortages in the area. How can these buildings be transformed into safe, energy-efficient spaces that also meet the unique needs of the community?
2. Climate resilience adaptation
Makers Valley experiences a range of temperatures, with summer averaging 24 degrees and winter around 13 degrees, though nighttime temperatures can sometimes dip below freezing. Given these climate conditions, how can buildings be adapted to ensure they are resilient and comfortable year-round?
3. Developing inclusive green spaces
Green spaces are essential for creating positive living and working environments in urban areas. In the context of Makers Valley, it is important to consider how to integrate green spaces into the community's growth and future development. What strategies can be implemented to ensure that green spaces become a fundamental aspect of the area? Additionally, how can we design these spaces to feel safe and welcoming for everyone in the community?
4. Improving existing houses
The ongoing housing shortage has forced many individuals to live in high-density homes, while hostels often experience overcrowding, and some residents find themselves in unregulated backyard rentals. Given these challenging living conditions, it's crucial to explore how existing houses can be improved to enhance the privacy, space, and dignity of those residing in them. What innovative ideas can be proposed to address these issues and create more comfortable living environments for the community?
5.Security
Security is a pressing concern in Makers Valley, impacting the overall quality of life for its residents. Ensuring safety within the built environment is essential for fostering a sense of community and well-being. What strategies can be explored to enhance security and create safer spaces for the people living and working in Makers Valley?
