I lived in Killarney for five years, and I have always noted to others how friendly and proud the neighbourhood is regarding its heritage and architecture.
Walking by the undisputed gem, Whitehall , we were confronted by an aggressive man in his convertible, asking us not to take pictures of the building as they want to remain ‘exclusive’. “This is also why we as residents of Whitehall, are not interested in participating in this silly 100-year celebration. We just want to be left alone. We don’t want people to know about us or the building. It is exclusive, and we have many prominent people living here.”
I was shocked. I mentioned to him that architecture is for all to enjoy. And that they should contact google-streetview to block images. And perhaps delete all references to Whitehall Court in every single Johannesburg architecture book. Perhaps build a 20 metre wall around it? Or blind passers-by?
My visitors could not believe what they were told. I mean you can photograph the White House, but not the Whitehall Court? Did the Queen ever decree that no photography is allowed of Buckingham? Cracy! and his attitude? What was most sad that this man clearly sees nothing wrong with the commodification of a public space. And we, as residents, are told not to notice their building.
Perhaps New York City should also ignore the existence of the Empire State? As for now, this is clearly a national key point; Nkandla Whitehall Court.
