Broadlands

Broadlands, designed in 1947 by L Filipek, is a rare example of sub-tropical deco in Johannesburg. The energy of the building is expressed through a dynamic interplay of forms in its three sections, with corners either crisply articulated or boldly curved. The importance of the entrance is cleverly emphasised by being set back on the stand, and approached through a virtuosic portico topped with the building’s name. The glorious sandblasted glass panels in the vestibule are the work of René Shapshak.