EX Mary Theresa Offices

Project name: Ex-Mary Theresa Offices: Additions, Alterations & Renovations

Client: Eastern Cape Department of Public Works

Project year: 2016 -2020

Project value: R 89 515 829.39

Project Description: The project involved the conversion of the Ex Mary Theresa Hospital (which is a heritage building) and adjacent Nurses Home into offices for the Departments of Health, Education and Social development in Mt Frere, Eastern Cape.

Conversion of a 1938 Catholic convent hospital — made redundant by a new facility in 2007 — into offices for the Departments of Education and Health. Major challenges included severe damp and structural water damage (resolved via agricultural drains and new stormwater reticulation), and balancing heritage restoration with contemporary requirements. Later additions were demolished, original windows and doors replicated in powder-coated aluminium, and the building brought to full disability compliance. The original chapel with its stained glass windows was retained and enhanced. Air conditioning plant was concealed in the attic space to preserve the facade. New data, lighting, and air conditioning systems were installed throughout.