Reservoir

In 1994 during the planning phase of the African Carousel at Oliewenhuis Art Museum an underground reservoir was discovered, which contained approximately half a metre of water.  Pipes leading into the structure and an outlet pipe dated back to 1902 are situated at its southern corner which indicated that it was probably built as a catchment basin for the surrounding area.

As far as can be determined the Reservoir was built in about 1904 and was excavated out of almost solid granite.  The structure is supported by two rows of five dolerite pillars supporting two concrete beams on which a vaulted roof rest.  The cast concrete allowed water to seep through and collect in the reservoir, therefore the most important aspect that needed to be considered during the transformation of the reservoir into an exhibition space was to make it completely waterproof.  Brick walls were built on the inside of the existing concrete walls and a concrete floor was cast.

In order to allow access to the venue without damaging the existing structure they had to do excavations directly next to the reservoir.  The solid rock could not be removed by ‘blasting’ as it would have lead to damage or destruction of the existing structure.  Pressurised air drills were used to remove the solid rock manually.

The inside measurements of the Reservoir is 14 X 33 X 32 metres, with a surface area of 450m².  Definitely a venue in it’s own class!!