The history of Chrysler House
JOBURG – Learn about another one of Johannesburg's heritage sites.
It’s Johannesburg’s very own Chrysler building and the story of its transformation is as interesting as its design.
Chrysler House, which is also known as Atkinson House, is situated on the south side of Eloff Street and was built in 1938, according to the Heritage Portal.
When it was first built, it was used as a showroom for Chrysler cars and was built to accommodate all the mechanical tools needed to show the cars. The building had large car elevators to move the vehicles from floor to floor, and double volume windows to allow for each model to be perfectly displayed.
The art deco style of the building is significant as it was modelled after the famous Chrysler House in New York, according to Media Club South Africa, and paints a perfect picture of the type of buildings that were constructed at the time.
Later the building was inhabited by Radio 702, but only for a short while before it was bought by Afhco (The Affordable Housing Company).
City of Joburg and various heritage organisations recognised the building as historically significant and, therefore, required that Afhco restored some of the original architecture of the building rather than make a complete overhaul.
In 2012, it was reported that the building would be restored and made into affordable housing for those earning less than R4 000 and in need of accommodation in the city – be it for work or schooling purposes.
This publication and Afhco are soon to be touring the building, so keep your eyes glued to City Buzz to learn more about your city’s most interesting places.
