West Coast College is proud to share exciting developments around the historic Loedolf House in Malmesbury, which is currently undergoing a major restoration and redevelopment project. Once completed, the building will serve as a hospitality training site, providing real-world learning opportunities for students while preserving a piece of the town’s rich Victorian heritage.

Situated on the corner of Loedolf and Church Streets, Loedolf House has long been a local landmark. Structural challenges in recent years—including the collapse of its front and rear gables—necessitated urgent intervention to save the building. In 2022, West Coast College secured approval to begin phased restoration, and work has continued steadily ever since.

The restoration is taking place in two major phases:

  • Phase 1 (2022): Focused on securing and stabilising the structure, including demolition of unsafe sections.

  • Phase 2 (2024): Rebuilding, refurbishing, and preparing the site for future educational use.

The college is working closely with Heritage Western Cape to ensure the building retains its original Victorian charm—including signature gables, a wrap-around veranda, and a traditional corrugated iron roof. Wherever possible, original materials such as windows, doors and timber detailing are being restored or reused.

Significantly, the project is supported by funding from the Wholesale and Retail Sector Education and Training Authority (W&RSETA). This partnership highlights the value of skills development and sector collaboration in strengthening educational infrastructure.

Speaking about the project, Mr Lungisa Mbulawa, Principal of West Coast College, said:

“The intended future use for Loedolf House is to be used as a restaurant and guest house that will be managed and operated by the West Coast College Hospitality School, as well as act as a small meeting and conference venue that will allow the students of the college to interact with stakeholders and in doing so gain much-needed practical experience.”

Alongside Loedolf House, the neighbouring Loedolf Annexe will become a student-run bakery, with a focus on fine patisserie training—another hands-on learning opportunity that supports entrepreneurship and job readiness.

This project not only revives a treasured building in Malmesbury, but also brings it to life as a space of opportunity, where students can learn, grow and engage directly with the industry and broader community.

Stay connected to our channels for future updates as Loedolf House begins its next chapter—rooted in the past, and built for the future.