Salisbury House

Also known as Berns Building, Anderson’s Chemist Building

Last Updated: July 17, 2025

About Salisbury House

A two-storey Victorian commercial building constructed in 1903 as business premises for Mr. P. Chat (Johannesburg 1912, 2021). The building exemplifies late Victorian commercial architecture adapted for South African conditions, featuring distinctive architectural elements that reflect both British colonial influence and adaptation to local climate and lifestyle.

Architectural Features

The building demonstrates characteristic features of Victorian-era commercial architecture:

Exterior Elements
● Two-storey load-bearing masonry construction with pointed brick and white plastered walls
● Distinctive cast iron verandahs with ornate decorative “broekie lace” and balustrades spanning both street frontages
● Green corrugated iron hipped roof with chimneys
● Large glazed shop fronts at ground level designed for commercial use
● Rhythmically ordered fenestration with double-hung sash windows
● Classical proportions reflecting Victorian architectural conventions
● Original Victorian pavement lights-finely detailed to bring in natural light into the basement

Interior Features
● Original high pressed metal ceilings throughout
● Original stained glass windows featuring elaborate floral motifs in red, yellow, blue, and green, augmented by the new stained glass with new motifs, harmonizing with the existing, in areas of alteration (2003)
● Restored original augmented with Oregon pine floors in areas of alterations (2003)
● Original light fittings including Victorian-style pendant lamps augmented with new light fittings inspired by original period light fittings
● Original skirtings, mouldings, dados and wood panelling
● Original moulded airbricks and new to match
● Central staircase providing access to upper floor accommodation
● Alterations (2003) to enhance circulation through the building, adding kitchen and ablution facilities
● Original built in pharmaceutical cabinets from the Anderson period
● Period fireplaces restored
● Original vinyl floors persevered
● The augmented new and previous alteration work form various periods is intended to be visible in order to facilitate the understanding of the layering changes over time within the building.

The building reflects the Victorian architectural movement that dominated construction during Queen Victoria’s reign (1837-1901), characterised by eclectic revival styles and adaptation of British architectural traditions to colonial contexts (Wikipedia, 2024). Similar to other prominent Victorian commercial buildings in Johannesburg such as Victory House, Salisbury House represents the adaptation of metropolitan architectural styles to the rapidly developing goldfield town (Wikipedia, 2024).

Address

420 Marshall Street, Jeppestown, Johannesburg

History

Pre-Development Context (1886-1903)
The establishment of Salisbury House must be understood within the broader context of Johannesburg's rapid urban development following the 1886 gold discovery on the Witwatersrand. Jeppestown emerged as one of the earliest planned suburbs, laid out in a grid pattern that reflected colonial urban planning principles adapted to mining town requirements (Johannesburg 1912, 2021). The area was originally part of the farms Braamfontein and Turffontein, surveyed and subdivided to accommodate the influx of miners, merchants, and administrators drawn to the new goldfields.
Marshall Street, where Salisbury House stands, formed part of this original urban grid, serving as a major thoroughfare connecting the central business district to the developing residential areas. The street was named after General Sir William Marshall, reflecting the British colonial influence on early Johannesburg's nomenclature and urban development patterns.

The P. Chat Era: Foundation and Construction (1903-1908)
Salisbury House was constructed in 1903 as business premises for Mr. P. Chat, representing the confidence and economic optimism that characterized Johannesburg's early commercial development (Johannesburg 1912, 2021). The building's design reflected contemporary Victorian commercial architecture, adapted for South African conditions with features such as wide verandahs and high ceilings to manage the local climate.
The original 1903 architectural drawings, preserved and displayed within the building, show the sophisticated planning that went into the structure. Messrs P Chat and Co designed a building that maximised commercial potential on the ground floor while providing residential accommodation above, reflecting the mixed-use development patterns common in early Johannesburg's commercial districts.
The building's construction coincided with the post-Anglo-Boer War reconstruction period (1902-1910), when Johannesburg was experiencing rapid growth and modernisation. The quality of construction and architectural detailing evident in Salisbury House demonstrates the prosperity and optimism of this period, as well as the skilled craftsmanship available in the developing city.

The Anderson Period: Pharmacy and Community Development (1923-1943)
In 1908, Mr. Anderson, a chemist, purchased the building and transformed it into one of Johannesburg's most significant pharmaceutical establishments (Johannesburg 1912, 2021). The acquisition marked the beginning of the building's most socially significant period, when it served as both a commercial enterprise and a vital community health resource.
Anderson renamed the building Salisbury House after Miss Kate Salisbury, a teacher from St. Mary's Diocesan School across the road, who subsequently became Mrs. Anderson. This romantic story of the building's naming has become part of its cultural significance, representing the personal relationships that shaped early Johannesburg's social fabric.
Anderson's Chemist operated from the corner position, taking advantage of the building's prominent location and large glazed shop fronts to serve the growing Jeppestown community. This continuity of use demonstrates the building's successful adaptation to community needs and its central role in local healthcare provision.
During World War I, Anderson demonstrated the building's adaptability by converting two ground floor shops into residential flats, responding to changing urban needs and the economic pressures of wartime. This modification illustrates the flexible design of Victorian commercial buildings and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining their primary functions.
The Anderson period also established important relationships with neighboring institutions, particularly St. Mary's Diocesan School across the road. The proximity of the pharmacy to the school meant that Anderson's Chemist served not only the broader community but also became integrated into the daily life of the educational precinct that defined this corner of Jeppestown.

Post-Anderson Ownership and Decline (1943-2001)
Following Anderson's death in 1943, H. Hansen purchased the building, continuing its mixed commercial and residential use through the 1970s (Johannesburg 1912, 2021). The Hansen period coincided with significant changes in Johannesburg's urban development patterns, as suburban growth and changing commercial practices began to affect inner-city properties.
The building's use during this period reflected broader urban challenges facing Johannesburg's older commercial districts. While the ground floor continued to accommodate various commercial activities, the upper floor residential use became less attractive as middle-class residents moved to newer suburban developments.
Latee in 1974, the Johannesburg Community Development board acquired the property during a period when many heritage buildings were threatened by urban decay and development pressures. In 1977 the City council took ownership and this phase represented both an opportunity for conservation and a period of uncertainty about the building's future use and maintenance.
The building's condition during the late 20th century reflected the challenges facing many inner-city Johannesburg properties. Vandalism, neglect, and structural deterioration threatened the building's survival, representing the broader crisis affecting heritage buildings in Johannesburg's inner city during this period.

School of Practical Philosophy Era: Conservation and Renewal (2001-Present)
The lease agreement between the School of Practical Philosophy and Johannesburg Property Company in August 2003 marked the beginning of the building's current chapter as an educational and cultural institution. This partnership represented a successful model of heritage conservation through adaptive use, demonstrating how historic buildings can be preserved while serving contemporary community needs.
The School's decision to undertake the building's restoration reflected both philosophical commitment to preservation and practical recognition of the building's potential as an educational facility. The proximity to St Mary's building, which the School already occupied, created an educational campus that respected the area's historical character while serving modern institutional needs.

The Restoration Project (2004-2006): A Conservation Model
The restoration of Salisbury House between 2004 and 2006 represents one of Johannesburg's most successful heritage conservation projects, demonstrating best practice in historic building preservation and adaptive use. The project's approach, guided by the Burra Charter and approved by both PHRAG and SAHRA, established principles that have influenced subsequent heritage conservation projects in Johannesburg.

Conservation Philosophy and Methodology
The restoration followed conservation philosophy principles established by William Morris and the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB), emphasizing protection rather than restoration and maintaining the building's historic integrity (ResearchGate, 2016). This approach recognized the building's evidential value and sought to preserve authentic historic fabric while ensuring structural stability and functional suitability.
The conservation methodology involved detailed documentation of existing conditions, careful removal of inappropriate alterations, and conservative repair of original elements. The project team worked to distinguish between historic fabric requiring preservation and later modifications that could be altered to improve the building's functionality.

Challenges and Solutions
The restoration faced significant challenges that tested both the project team's commitment and the conservation methodology. Theft of building materials, flooding from infrastructure failures, structural damage from vehicular accidents, and general vandalism all threatened the project's progress and outcomes.
The response to these challenges demonstrated the importance of community involvement and institutional commitment in heritage conservation. The School of Practical Philosophy's continued presence and investment in the building provided the stability necessary to complete the restoration despite setbacks.

Funding and Partnership Model
The restoration's funding model, involving contributions from Johannesburg Property Company, Living Heritage Association, School of Practical Philosophy, and National Lottery funding, demonstrated successful public-private partnership in heritage conservation. This collaborative approach has become a model for subsequent heritage projects in Johannesburg.

Cultural Impact and Recognition
The building's cultural significance extends beyond its architectural value, having been used in two South African films: 'The Foster Gang' and 'The Cavaliers' (Johannesburg 1912, 2021). This cinematic recognition reflects the building's iconic status and its representation of Johannesburg's historic character.
The nomination by the Simon Van Der Stel Society as one of the top 100 buildings in Johannesburg worthy of preservation recognized the building's importance to the city's architectural heritage and established its significance within the broader context of Johannesburg's built environment.

The 2011 Halala Award
The 2011 Halala "Conserving Joburg" Award (Colosseum Award) represented formal recognition of the restoration project's excellence and its contribution to inner-city regeneration. This award acknowledged not only the technical quality of the conservation work but also its demonstration effect in encouraging other heritage conservation projects.

Statement of Significance

Salisbury House represents one of Johannesburg's most significant examples of early Victorian commercial architecture and exemplary heritage conservation practice. Its importance transcends architectural merit to encompass social, cultural, economic, and conservation significance within the broader context of South African urban development. The building's significance can be assessed across multiple criteria established in international heritage conservation practice. The building's cultural significance extends beyond its architectural value, having been used in two South African films: 'The Foster Gang' and 'The Cavaliers' (Johannesburg 1912, 2021). This cinematic recognition reflects the building's iconic status and its representation of Johannesburg's historic character. The nomination by the Simon Van Der Stel Society as one of the top 100 buildings in Johannesburg worthy of preservation recognized the building's importance to the city's architectural heritage and established its significance within the broader context of Johannesburg's built environment. Salisbury House represents one of Johannesburg's most significant examples of early Victorian commercial architecture and successful heritage conservation practice. Its importance can be assessed across multiple criteria: Architectural Significance Outstanding Example of Victorian Commercial Architecture: Salisbury House stands as one of the last surviving double-storey Victorian commercial buildings in early Johannesburg, representing a critical period in the city's architectural development (Heritage Portal, 2024). The building demonstrates the adaptation of British Victorian architectural traditions to South African colonial conditions, featuring characteristic elements including cast iron verandahs, decorative brackets, high ceilings, and large glazed commercial frontages. The building's architectural significance lies in its intact representation of late Victorian commercial design principles. The integration of commercial and residential functions within a single structure reflects typical colonial commercial development patterns, while the quality of materials and craftsmanship demonstrates the prosperity and optimism of Johannesburg's early development period. Exceptional Craftsmanship and Materials The building showcases high-quality Victorian-era craftsmanship in multiple materials and techniques: ●Cast iron work: Ornate verandah balustrades and decorative “broekie lace” representing skilled metalworking traditions ●Stained glass windows: Elaborate floral motifs in red, yellow, blue, and green, demonstrating artistic glazing techniques ●Pressed metal ceilings: a wide variety of different patterns ●Masonry construction: Load-bearing brick walls with lime mortar representing traditional building methods ●Cast iron columns combined with structural steel frame work supporting the first floor ●Decorative plasterwork: Original pressed metal ceilings and embossed wallpaper showing skilled plastering craftsmanship which is unfortunately no longer available ●Joinery and millwork: Original wooden floors, windows, and architectural details demonstrating traditional carpentry skills Architectural Evolution and Adaptive Use The building demonstrates successful architectural adaptation over more than a century of use. Modifications undertaken during the Anderson period, including the conversion of commercial spaces to residential use during World War I, illustrate the flexibility of Victorian commercial design and its ability to respond to changing urban needs while maintaining architectural integrity. Contribution to Historic Streetscape Salisbury House makes a crucial contribution to the historic character of the Berg and Marshall Street intersection. Together with St Mary's College opposite, the building forms a significant heritage precinct that maintains the scale, rhythm, and architectural character of early Johannesburg's commercial districts. ● needs ●Intact street frontage contributing to Jeppestown's historic character Historical Significance Association with Johannesburg's Founding Period Built in 1903, Salisbury House provides tangible evidence of Johannesburg's rapid urban development following the 1886 gold discovery. The building represents the confidence and economic optimism of the post-Anglo-Boer War reconstruction period, when Johannesburg was establishing itself as the economic center of southern Africa. The building's construction coincided with critical developments in Johannesburg's urban planning and architectural evolution. Its position within the original mining town grid pattern and its relationship to transportation networks and neighboring institutions illustrate the systematic urban development that characterized early Johannesburg. Documentation of Changing Ownership and Use Patterns The building's documented ownership history from P. Chat (1903) through Alexander Anderson (1908-1943), H. Hansen (1943-1970s), City of Johannesburg (1977-2001), to the School of Practical Philosophy (2001-present) provides a microcosm of Johannesburg's economic and social development patterns. Each ownership period reflects broader urban trends: early commercial optimism, establishment of community services, mid-century commercial changes, municipal ownership during inner-city decline, and heritage conservation through institutional adaptive use. Healthcare Heritage and Community Service Anderson's Chemist operated as possibly Johannesburg's oldest practicing pharmacy until the 1970s, representing over 60 years of continuous community healthcare service. This long-term use establishes the building's significance in the history of healthcare provision in Johannesburg and its role in community development. The pharmacy's service to multiple generations of Jeppestown residents created social significance that extends beyond commercial activity to encompass community identity and social memory. Social and Cultural Significance ●Contribution to community life through commercial, residential, and educational functions ●Symbol of successful heritage conservation and community mobilisation ●Educational resource for understanding Johannesburg's urban development ●Active cultural centre supporting philosophical education and community engagement Conservation Significance The restoration project establishes Salisbury House as an exemplary model for heritage conservation practice: ●Demonstration of successful public-private partnership in heritage conservation ●Application of international conservation principles (Burra Charter) in South African context ●Recognition through heritage awards and conservation recognition ●Sustainable adaptive use ensuring ongoing conservation Exemplary Conservation Practice The restoration of Salisbury House (2004-2009) represents exemplary conservation practice, demonstrating successful application of international conservation principles in the South African context. The project's approach, guided by the Burra Charter and approved by both PHRAG and SAHRA, has influenced subsequent conservation projects in Johannesburg. Public-Private Partnership Model The conservation project's funding model, involving contributions from Johannesburg Property Company, Living Heritage Association, School of Practical Philosophy, and National Lottery funding, demonstrates successful public-private partnership in heritage conservation. This collaborative approach has become a model for subsequent heritage projects in South Africa. Conservation Education and Demonstration The building serves as a conservation education resource, demonstrating best practice in heritage building restoration and ongoing maintenance. The visible success of the conservation project encourages other heritage conservation initiatives and contributes to public understanding of conservation principles and practices. Recognition and Awards The 2011 Halala "Conserving Joburg" Award (Colosseum Award) provides formal recognition of the conservation project's excellence and its contribution to urban heritage preservation. This recognition acknowledges both technical conservation quality and broader cultural and social benefits. Contemporary Significance and Future Today, Salisbury House serves as headquarters of the School of Practical Philosophy, continuing its role as a community institution while demonstrating the successful adaptive use of historic buildings. The building's current functions - educational courses, cultural events, community programs, and heritage tourism - illustrate how historic buildings can serve contemporary needs while preserving their character and significance. The building's ongoing maintenance and care by the School of Practical Philosophy ensures its preservation for future generations while demonstrating sustainable approaches to heritage building management. The building continues to serve as a model for heritage conservation practice and adaptive use in the South African context. Social and Cultural Significance Community Institution and Social Hub Throughout its history, Salisbury House has served as a focal point for community life in Jeppestown. The pharmacy provided essential healthcare services, while the building's prominent corner location made it a landmark and meeting point within the neighborhood social geography. The building's current use by the School of Practical Philosophy continues this tradition of community service, providing educational and cultural programs that serve both local residents and the broader Johannesburg community. Cultural Representation and Heritage Tourism The building's use in South African films 'The Foster Gang' and 'The Cavaliers' reflects its iconic status and cultural significance as a representative example of Johannesburg's historic architecture (Johannesburg 1912, 2021). This cinematic recognition contributes to its cultural significance and public awareness of heritage conservation. The building now serves as a heritage tourism destination, providing educational opportunities for understanding Johannesburg's urban development and architectural history. Its role in heritage education contributes to broader cultural awareness and appreciation of built heritage. Educational and Philosophical Significance The School of Practical Philosophy's use of the building extends its social significance into contemporary educational and cultural activities. The school's philosophy courses, cultural events, and community programs create new layers of social meaning while respecting the building's historic character. The building's role in housing St James Preparatory School (associated with the School of Practical Philosophy) continues the educational character of the Berg and Marshall Street precinct, maintaining the relationship with St Mary's College and preserving the area's identity as an educational center. Economic Significance Adaptive Use and Economic Sustainability Salisbury House demonstrates successful economic sustainability through adaptive use, showing how heritage buildings can continue to generate economic value while preserving cultural significance. The School of Practical Philosophy's investment in restoration and ongoing maintenance provides a model for heritage building economics. The building's economic significance extends to its contribution to inner-city regeneration and heritage tourism, supporting broader economic development in Jeppestown and central Johannesburg. Property Development and Urban Regeneration Model The successful restoration and adaptive use of Salisbury House provides a replicable model for heritage-led urban regeneration. The project demonstrates how heritage conservation can contribute to property values, neighborhood improvement, and economic development while preserving cultural assets. Comparative Significance Regional and National Context Within the South African context, Salisbury House represents one of the finest examples of Victorian commercial architecture preservation in Johannesburg. Its conservation standard and ongoing use provide a benchmark for heritage building management and adaptive use across the country. The building's significance extends beyond local and regional levels to contribute to understanding of colonial architecture adaptation, heritage conservation methodology, and sustainable heritage building use in post-colonial urban contexts. International Conservation Significance The application of international conservation principles (particularly the Burra Charter) to Salisbury House contributes to global understanding of conservation practice in different cultural and climatic contexts. The project's methodology and outcomes provide valuable case study material for international conservation education and practice. Intangible Heritage Values Cultural Memory and Identity Salisbury House carries significant intangible heritage values related to community memory, local identity, and cultural continuity. The building's role in community healthcare, its romantic naming story, and its continuing educational function create layers of cultural meaning that extend beyond physical fabric. Symbolic Significance The building symbolizes successful heritage conservation, community commitment, and cultural continuity within the context of urban change. Its preservation and adaptive use represent broader values related to cultural heritage preservation, environmental sustainability, and community development. Future Significance Educational Resource and Research Value Salisbury House continues to provide educational and research value for understanding Johannesburg's urban development, architectural history, and conservation practice. The building serves as a laboratory for ongoing conservation research and education in heritage building management. Model for Sustainable Heritage Use The building's ongoing successful adaptive use provides a model for sustainable heritage building management that balances preservation with contemporary function. This model has application for other heritage buildings facing similar challenges of preservation and adaptive use. The comprehensive significance of Salisbury House encompasses architectural, historical, social, cultural, economic, and conservation values that establish its importance at local, regional, national, and international levels. The building's preservation and ongoing use represent successful integration of heritage conservation with contemporary community needs, providing a model for sustainable heritage building management in the South African urban context.

Inscription

Blue Heritage Plaques: A pair of blue heritage plaques have been installed by the City of Johannesburg Directorate of Arts, Culture and Heritage in partnership with the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation, recognising the building's historical significance and architectural value. 2011 Halala Award Recognition: Commemorative recognition of the building's receipt of the Johannesburg Development Agency's Halala "Conserving Joburg" Award (Colosseum Award) for excellence in heritage conservation.

Legal Status

Presumed protected under Section 34 of the National Heritage Resources Act (Act No. 25 of 1999) due to its age and historical value. The building's conservation was guided by the Burra Charter and received declaration from both Provincial Heritage Resource Agency Gauteng (PHRAG) and South African Heritage Resources Authority (SAHRA).
The building contributes to the Jeppestown heritage area and is recognised as a significant heritage asset requiring protection under national heritage legislation.