Chris Stander, a valued Stellenbosch architect, died during the past week. We will be placing a profile of his life and work on the website, alongside those of other Stellenbosch architects already available on the website.
With friends late Hannes Meiring (left) and Johan Krige (right) at the opening of the Hofmeyr Hall
In the meantime:
Chris Stander studied at the University of Cape Town and commenced working as architect when he completed his studies, initially for Lochner, Pauw and Green and later for Swart and Stander. He was known for his scrupulous and neat architectural drawings and work, and as someone who always took time to think and organise his thoughts before saying or doing anything.
House Krige behind the Caledon Villa
He was responsible for many houses and larger projects, like the Van der Stel sport centre, and hospitals, in particular. He was the project leader for most of the large provincial hospitals built during his time. Homes designed by him include House Songe and House Fensham, as well as House Krige, at the back of the garden of Caledon Villa in Neethling Street.
Before and particularly after his retirement he was closely involved with the Mother Church, inter ais with the restoration of the church office and the Hofmeyer Hall, and witht the Uniepark congregation, where he designed a preschool. He served as a committee member of the Heritage Foundation for a long time.
