What Is It?

In the 1930s, Johannesburg rose up from its foundations to become a world-class city in the midst of a world depression. In the building boom that followed the abandonment of the gold standard, the city developed its distinct art deco facade, which today survives in the most unlikely spaces of the central city.

The 'Englishness' of the 1920s was eclipsed by the new modernism emanating from the United States: ziggurats rising into the New York skyline; rounded, streamline shapes from the fetish speed objects of the 1930s; projecting horizontal motifs and chevron friezes.

The pre-eminent architects of the period, JC Cook & Cowen and Obel & Obel, intoxicated by what they had seen and learned on visits to the great metropolises of the United States, competed with each other to design buildings that were taller, more luxurious and more startling in their decorative details.

Explore their legacy in a tour that encompasses Astor Mansions, Castle Mansions, Anstey’s, Manners Mansions, Dorchester Mansions, Dunvegan Chambers and other great art deco masterpieces. This is not to be missed, so get your tickets as soon as possible!

When Is It?

Saturday, 14 March 2020 from 14:00 - 17:00.

Where Is It?

Starting point: Sunnyside Park Hotel, Princess of Wales Terrace, Parktown, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Tickets cost R300 for members and R350 for non-members. Book yours here.

For More Information

Click here for more information.

Contact the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation on [email protected]