Lower Glenwood Walk 2019
FADING GLORY OF LOWER GLENWOOD
Franco Frescura, outspoken architect and author, led an interesting walk past the art deco buildings in the Berea (King Dinizulu), Umbilo and Moore (Che Guevara) Road area of Durban. With the changing use of this area, some buildings have lost their original lustre, but nevertheless tell a story about our past.
With his knowledge of the historical development of
this area, Professor Frescura was able to account for the evolution of building
styles, with the congruous and sometimes incongruous juxtaposition of
buildings. He made the point that 50 to 100 years ago, development was a far
more gentlemanly affair, with buildings being constructed in sympathy with
their neighbours, and carrying identifiable symbolism.
The walk was conducted on Sunday 7 April, 2019, and
attended by some 30 members of the Durban Art Deco Society and friends.
Franco
Frescura - walk guide
Syringa
Avenue
Syringa
Avenue - row of town houses with separate staircase entrances
Row of
three brightly coloured shop buildings in lower Berea Road. The owner, Mr
Hansa, was awarded a Merit Certificate by the Durban Art Deco Society for this
renovation.
Entrance
to the old City Building of the University of Natal - now being considered for
preservation. Commerce classes were held here to allow access to after-hours
lectures for city workers.
University
‘City Building’ interior 1
University
‘City Building’ interior 2
Garvock
building, 14 Umbilo Road
Escombe
Court, 29-31 Umbilo Road
Makan
Bros, 45 Umbilo Road
Moorlands,
158 Moore (Che Guevara) Road
Santa
Maria, 187 Moore (Che Guevara) Road