Architecture in Natal 1824-1893

"Among all the British colonies none had a finer archtecture than Natal" says Dr.R.B. Lewcock in his Foreward to this historical survey of architectural styles and building techniques in Natal-- and he goes on to claim that this "serves as an excellent microcosm of conditions and achievements in the whole Victorian empire."

Brian Kearney has thoroughly exploited this rich material in a fine historical essay supported by many hundreds of unique illustrations.

What is known of early settler homes is followed by an account of the houses and public buildings of the early colonial period: wayyle and daub walls, grass thatch, clay and cowdung floors, hipped roofs--and verandas. "The advent of the veranda" says Kearney. " marks the transition in Natal from the Dutch to the English colonial tardition." There are detail descriptions of styles and practices of the British settlers (1849-56) and of the more ambitious developments that followed(1856-79).

Hardback with dustcover over orange-brown boards with gilt lettering to spine. Foreward-Introduction etc, xv plus 255 pages text  with numerous photographs, plans, information and data. ISBN 0 86961 025 2. Very clean copy.