The Old Chemistry Building was completed in 1911 at a construction cost of £13,500.00 and is the oldest building on the Hatfield campus of the University of Pretoria. The building was designed circa 1909 by a Mr Cleland from the Department of Public Works. The main contractor was J.J. Kirkness, who was also the owner of the Groenkloof Brick, Tile & Pottery Works. Kirkness is credited as the pioneer of quality clay bricks in South Africa at the time.
In 1971, the south wing was demolished to make way for the Merensky 2 Library, affecting the symmetry and balance of the original floorplan (maybe unfortunate decision?). The sandstone arches which lead to the entrance of the south wing were maintained, serving as a memory of the original design.
Today, the Old Chemistry Building serves an administrative capacity on the Hatfield campus: the Disability Compliance Unit is housed in the building as well as the Career Service Centre offices, along with a Digital Capability Laboratory.
