Margaret Simon’s a city sleeker
Property brokers shed light on rejuvenation.
JOBURG – Margaret Simon is a woman of vision, and one of the inventive people involved with the regeneration of Braamfontein and Newtown, a hot topic in Joburg at the moment.
Simon and her son Pierre are the driving force behind Gatsby Property Brokers, and have a litany of success stories as testament to their efforts to help Joburgers ‘reclaim’ the city.
“Our first project was at 19 Henri Street, Braamfontein. The building was dilapidated, but we could see its potential,” she said.
The Simons set up a temporary office in the building and oversaw its conversion into a trendy spot that now houses an advertising agency and a tattoo parlour-cum-gallery.
Not far from Simon’s first project is another success story; that of 111 Smit Street.
“We could see the potential of the vandalised building, and entered into a partnership with St Jeff’s College, which is now based on the top two floors.”
Simon said the partnership model worked for her company, so projects were steered by Gatsby, rather than completely controlled by them.
The educational theme continued with a building that features the original wood panelling and pressed ceilings at 94 Juta Street.
“This building was originally a hotel and in the late 70s and 80s, was the home of Linger Longer, a legendary restaurant,” she said.
“We showed this building to so many people, but no one could see the potential. Pierre knew that Progressive Primary School needed to move from their old premises and suggested they move into the building,” she said.
The school looks after the educational needs of 429 children, from Grade 0 to Grade 7, and is one of the few schools in the city with an outdoor playground.
Simon’s company also steered the development of 41 Gwigwi Mrwebi Street, Newtown, which houses NewARC Studios and Two By Two Art Studios.
Gatsby commercial property broker Catherine Barry-Venter said working for the company was great.
“I had worked in residential property before and when I joined, Margaret took me under her wing. She has been a mentor to me,” she said.
“In addition to being able to learn from her, it’s wonderful to be a part of the changes happening in the city, where we get empty buildings and create something wonderful with them.”
