Jo'burg Art Deco buildings:
The city’s heritage 

Art deco a originated in the 1920s and gripped the world, representing modernity, technology and luxury living in cities around the world 

A walk on the city of Johannesburg in South Africa can be a somewhat disheartening as most of the buildings have become old; and some neglected.



Art deco a originated in the 1920s and gripped the world, representing modernity, technology and luxury living in cities around the world.

Art Deco buildings are characterized by stepped 

form design, curves and chevron patterns.

Anstey's Building

                                                     Then and now

Anstey's Building in is one of the most famous Art Deco buildings in Johannesburg. Construction of the 20 storeys high building began in 1935 and it was completed in 1937.

The building has evolved over the years. It was initially a high-end department store called Norman Anstey & Company.

It’s been through a few challenges, facing demolition in 1989 but its developer’s architect refused to sign the demolition documents.

The building deteriorated over the years, but architect Denzil Hersch kicked-started its refurbishment in 1994.

Today, the building has become a residential area - a home for diverse cultures. It also houses a medical centre.

Anstey’s Building is going through a re-birth with upgrades currently underway. The building, which resembled the height of South Africa Art Deco era, is among many outstanding historical buildings in Johannesburg that are brightening the city’s skyline.

Anstey's Building   is at the corner of Jeppe and Joubert street in Johanneburg.

Astor Mansions

Astor Mansions is 102m 
tall and it was the tallest 
building in Johannesburg 
until Anstey's Building 
was built.

It is a heritage site
in SA.



 


Neglected buildings

Many of the buildings in Johannesburg have deteriorated after years of neglect.

The post office building in Johannesburg  is the second oldest building in the city; dating back to 1897. It was declared a heritage site in 1978.

The three storey building was the second post office to be built in Johannesburg.

Over the years, the post office has faced neglect and the city considered demolishing the building. Post office staff members moved out of the building in 1996.

The building eventually became home to homeless people seeking shelter. It further deteriorated and on 1 November 2009, the majestic three storey building caught fire at around 21:00.

The building, in Rissik Street, remains in terrible conditions in 2015.