Dome of Discovery

kate_otten_planet_0824_49_high

Kate Otten Architects Introduce the Anglo American Digital Dome at the University of the Witwatersrand in a Powerful Act of Adaptive Reuse

Designed by Kate Otten Architects, the recent transformation of the Wits Planetarium re-energises this iconic structure, originally completed in 1960. With its stunning copper dome and slender portico, this planetarium has served as the largest in sub-Saharan Africa for over six decades. It has welcomed thousands of visitors, offering a celestial experience that has captivated both the academic community and the general public. The renovation aims to create a fully interactive digital system that expands its offerings beyond astronomy, fostering a greater connection with the community and reimagining the planetarium for the 21st century.

The Wits Planetarium, renowned for its extraordinary Zeiss planetarium projector, has long been a landmark on Yale Road. Recognising its historical significance and potential for modern engagement, the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome project emerges as a high-profile centenary initiative, marking an exciting new chapter for the university.

kate otten planet 0824 26 high
kate otten planet 0824 46 high

New functions
The primary goal of the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome project is to create a cutting-edge visualisation laboratory within the planetarium. Kate Otten Architects were appointed in 2021 to spearhead the adaptive reuse of this iconic structure, carefully considering its heritage importance and the sensitivity of the building’s design. The process of reimagining the planetarium posed interesting challenges, particularly in the effort to seamlessly transition an already iconic building into a contemporary space while making it seem as though nothing had happened. This delicate balance involved navigating the interests of three conflicting departments — art, science, and sport — while accommodating the diverse needs of each group. The project’s triumph lies in its ability to create a harmonious environment that serves all users while maintaining a seamless interface with the public.

The brief encompasses not only the transformation of the planetarium into a digital facility but also the upgrade of office spaces and teaching facilities. Plans included new ablution facilities, enhanced access points, and improved seating for the adjacent sports field and grandstands. A delightful addition to the project includes steel constellation-patterned screens designed to match the existing glass-etched impressions, fostering a dialogue between the original architecture and the new elements. The various components of the complex are designed to function cohesively and independently, with shared spaces like the roof viewing deck serving dual purposes: housing telescopes for views of the night sky while providing a vantage point for guests during campus events.

kate otten planet 0824 09 high

A dome of possibilities
To initiate the renovation process, all sensitive heritage elements were meticulously protected or temporarily removed for later reinstallation. This included the intricately etched windows above the entrance, original doors, signage, and marble skirtings. In the foyer, the team introduced a long seating area and an open-plan kitchen, converting the original bookstore into a ticket office with reclaimed timber from the Gatehouse building, which complements the planetarium’s original woodwork.

The existing domed aluminium projection screen remains intact, with new projectors and equipment installed. The advanced digital projection system will enable not only the display of the 100 billion stars within the Milky Way but also stellar nurseries, other galaxies, and a fresh perspective of Earth. Seating has been reconfigured to accommodate new raked arrangements, while the historic 92-yearold Zeiss Mark 3 projector has been carefully disassembled for future display as a museum piece on campus.

Designed for discovery
The reimagined Wits Anglo American Digital Dome stands ready to transport 270 visitors across the universe, inviting minds from all disciplines to explore data in profound new ways. As this celestial theatre prepares to raise its curtain once more, it promises to ignite wonder and understanding, ensuring that the magic of the cosmos continues to captivate generations to come.

This article is an extract from our 2024/25 Coffee Table Edition. Click here to read the full issue.

Latest issue

Sign up to our mailing list

You may also like

Subscribe to our mailing list

Join our mailing list and keep up-to-date with our publications and news.