Art Deco in the Inner City

Joburg was booming in the 1930s, and so was the Art Deco movement. As a result, our city is blessed with several outstanding examples of this much-loved architectural style that favoured streamlined profiles and geometric designs. 

Join local heritage architect Brian McKechnie and Joburg expert Jo Buitendach for an entertaining walk through the inner city as they explore some of the most important Art Deco buildings in the CBD. 

We begin the tour on the steps of the famous Rand Club (built in a neo-classical Edwardian style) and then head off along Commissioner and Jeppe streets to view the magnificent Anstey’s Building, Astor Mansions, Castle Mansions and others. If there is no load-shedding, we will also go up to the top of Anstey’s for a panoramic view over downtown.

The tour ends back at the Rand Club where you can stay for a drink or snack.

The Rand Club will also be hosting their Antiques Book and Artisanal Faire from 9am, so this is a good chance to make a day of it: visit the JHF books table, attend the lecture at 11h00 by JHF Vice-Chair Kathy Munro and James Findlay about old local maps and how they uniquely represent the history of our city; or even book for lunch in the Rand Club restaurant ([email protected])

Tickets for the Book Fair are sold separately and cost R50 per person. Get your ticket at the door or https://www.quicket.co.za/events/208316-rand-club-antiques-books-artisanal-faire

Please wear good walking shoes, and bring along a hat, sunblock and water. There is no dedicated parking available so it is recommended to catch an Uber. Although we haven’t had any security issues in the past, it is recommended that you don’t wear any fancy jewellery and keep your wallets out of sight.