Transvaal Chinese United Club Mansions

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Address

6 Commissioner Street, Ferreirasdorp

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TRANSVAAL CHINESE UNITED CLUB MANSIONS Curves, columns and cubes Ð this completely unconventional block of flats was commissioned by the adjoining Club in 1940 and designed by architect Wilhelm Pabst, a recent immigrant from Germany. He wrote, Ò I am of the opinion that where functionalism ends, architecture beginsÓ. The faade projects and recedes, creating and extraordinary dynamic energy. The delicate aquamarine tiles are a symbol of Kuan-Yin, the Chines Goddess of Mercy and Compassion.

Photo courtesy: Kabelo Mokoena (Sunday Times)

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A culmination of research gathered over many years, the Online Johannesburg Heritage Register is being launched on Nelson Mandela Day 18 July 2025.

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