From Mining Camp to Metropolis: The Buildings of Johannesburg 1886-1940

From Mining Camp to Metropolis tells a fascinating tale, which will be read with enjoyment by all who are interested in their environment. This highly readable account brings to life the history of old buildings, places and events, while providing the specialist with a veritable gold mine of information about the phenomenal development of South Africa's leading city. It explores the city's rich architectural heritage — the almost inevitable byproduct of the wealth generated by Johannesburg's powerful gold mining industry. The Golden City is in many ways a city like any other, and readers who are familiar with urban city life should experience an immediate affinity with the contents of this book, and also gain a better understanding of their own urban environment. In one sense Johannesburg differs from other cities in South Africa and elsewhere - its growth in a matter of a century from mining camp to metropolis is unquestionably unique. It is the only city in the world ever to arise in such a short period, in such an isolated position with no surrounding natural beauty to speak of — and so closely linked to a single industry Johannesburg's architecture and urban design therefore represent a particularly interesting chapter in the visual history of our cities. What is new in this pioneering work is the discerning study of the historical development of an extensive urban area. Not only are the most important buildings highlighted, but the urban lay-out and panorama are discussed in their various stages of development. In this context attention is specifically focused on the relationships that exist between various components of built-up areas - for example the relationship between the street and the facade of the buildings lining it, and the surface of a square in relation to the buildings erected upon it and surrounding it. Attention is also given to the social and economic use to which the interior and exterior spaces of buildings are put.