Architect and Builder Magazine South Africa January/February 2014 | Page 12
BookWatch
topical, noteworthy books on architecture and related fields
The Pioneer
Architects of
Johannesburg
and their buildings (1886 – 1899),
with postcard illustrations
by
Michael Walker
T
his book covers the early background of twenty overseas pioneer architects who endured the rigours of pre-1900
travel to practise their profession in the mining town of Johannesburg. Later, Johannesburg became a prosperous
city as a result of the discovery of gold.
These men practised architecture, some with a variety of European styles which were completely foreign to the thenTransvaal and the ZAR - this added much-needed adornment and flair to the bleak mining town that was bereft of any
natural charm.
Johannesburg later became known as the ‘City of Gold’ and these pioneer architects contributed to the enhancement
of the city which was to become the financial powerhouse of Africa.
Mike Walker has compiled a book, using early picture postcards to illustrate architectural works, that details the efforts
of these pioneer architects. Many of these buildings are no longer in existence as they have been demolished so a book
such as this provides an essential reminder of buildings long gone.
It is clearly laid out and the postcards provide a cohesive form to the story of these pioneers. Available from
leading bookstores.
For further information, or to obtain a copy of the book, please contact the author, Mike Walker:
E-mail: [email protected]
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Book Watch