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New
Reserve Bank
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Click link on thumbnail. More images...! . . |
Location
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Harare | |
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Designers
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Clinton & Evans | ||
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Date
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1993-97 | ||
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Original
Client
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Government Of Zimbabwe, | ||
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Style
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Post Modern | ||
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Discussion
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No
other high rise building in Harare exhibits it's owner's characteristics
more so than this building. Sturdy, robust and imposing it is the home
of the monetary authority of this country, and leaves no doubt in one's
mind that they mean business. Needless to say, it is the most expensive
single building ever built in the city.
While the 28 storey building itself is a great piece of architecture, it sits out of context in relation to the red brick buildings that surround it. It is based on the model of the African grain silo, with 5 podium levels, and 23 semi-typical office levels in the tower. The upper floors duplicate the design's extravagance in their over generous allocation of space per (management) office. In addition there are basement levels below the podium, and an annex (services) and carparking building behind completes the complex. Hi-tech security was given prime importance in the design. A reinforced concrete building, the only curtaining to the floors consists of precisely cut polished grey granite panels, and light blue mirror glazing. It is one of a few buildings in the country to use under-floor, HVAC. At ground level the buildings granite walls are etched with images of Zimbabwean rural life, and upon entry into the main security tight foyer, a welcoming fountain greets the visitor. The building site represents an important milestone in the history of Zimbabwe, as the hanging place of the spirit medium Mbuya Nehanda, legend of the First Chimurenga (liberation war). A bronze statute pays fitting tribute to her contribution. Four years of construction and over half a billion dollars later, the building seems to stand out of place in this prime street and location. Some argue that it doesn't justify the demolition of the previous inhabitant of this prime space - the F.S.A.D. Building (1896-1898). Also known as Jameson House it was a 'protected' building, which was one of the earliest double storey buildings in Harare. Is new always better than old?... Ref. The Author |
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Web
Resources
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Credits
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Allen Jacob for image. Borrowdale Dan for image. |
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