The Old Match Factory
In the early 1920s the Lion Match Company built a group of very large industrial buildings in Observatory all in the grand and imposing style of the times. These happily survived the century and have now been converted to provide an ultra moderm office complex of 11 500m2 but with the character and the feeling of comfort that only a mature patina can bring.

 
     
 
     
 
Architecture
Click on the images below to view a larger version
 
   
     
 
 
 

The Old Match Factory - The New Quarter
It’s very easy to imagine working here. The modern architecture of this second phase blends with the old Victorian. There’s a sense of history, yet with all the convenience of modern and secure offices. There’s “Old obs” to stroll in. Transport links by car, via the motorways , by taxi, by train or by bus are unbeatable. There’s restaurants and interesting shops in the neighborhood. There’s air-conditioning and open spaces. There’s security and lots and lots of parking. And there are all the advantages of modern architecture needed in a 21st century commercial environment … with space, light and texture. Undeniably attractive, yes. But what else makes The Match Factory such a good commercial address?
 
     
  The Concept
In The New Quarter we see a new building set against the best of everything that has gone before. 		 
 
  • Individuality and character of preserved buildings
  • Observatory's rich mix of living and working
  • A community, self-supporting and varied
  • 24 hour security, for your peace of mind and protection
  • Easy access (right onto the Black River Parkway and the motorway system)
  • Public transport – rail, bus and taxi – door to door
  • Lasting quality at a reasonable cost
  • Floors can expand to around 3 000m2
  • Magnificent 360 degree views from all the perimeters of all office floors.
  • Space is flexible and caters for users from 250m² to 10 000m²
  • Plenty of parking with around 4 bays per 100m² for office users
 
     
 
To understand the unique advantages of this perfectly considered complex it is necessary to look at the challenges of commercial property over the past few decades; beginning with the CBD High Rise post World War Two …
  

The High Rise was feted as the ultimate solution to working life. Yet, although the structure worked for some of the bigger companies, smaller and middle-sized companies did not respond well to the anonymity of isolated office suburbs. The long commute was unpopular and modern communications meant that there was less reason to be in a central hub. Enter the suburb office building of the ‘70’s. Closer to home but often isolated – and a long drive to shops and services. There was also very little individuality with the developers opting for a low key blandness. It was this quest for individuality which drove the so-called “Own Front Door” sites of the 80’s. Smaller buildings, near residential areas but often inconvenient with little support or infrastructure. In the 90’s, New Urbanism emerged.

Mixed work and residential areas which were self-sufficient yet gave a sense of community. You could work there without a car. There was richness of mix and the 24hr occupation gave occupants a sense of security. The huge popularity that followed initial skepticism of Melrose Arch confirmed it. This regeneration of inner city spaces is part of the same trend.
  

 
     
 
Observatory … as entertaining then as now …
For those citizen of Observatory who had the time, inclination and money (or fewer
children), leisure activities and entertainment were plentiful. Depending on one’s taste, one might enjoy Salvation Army street performances (or protest at the nuisance thereof). The swimming baths off Willow Road, owned by laundry entrepreneur Mr. HJ Kasseriis, offered cheap relaxation – sixpence entrance in 1900 with costume and towel included. The ‘Cinderella’ dances of 1908 were well attended and, if you weren’t ‘selected and exclusive’ enough to attend, then the nearby Woodstock beach was a free family venue for everyone in the area.
 
 
 

Ping Pong came to Observatory in 1902 and kite flying remained hugely popular. Another (slightly bizarre) source of Victorian amusement was ‘necromania’ and herds of mourners flocked to St Peter’s cemetery at the top of Mowbray Hill every day of the week.
 
   
 

Contact

Developer
Equity Estates
Michael Deacon
Tel: (+2721) 763-4499
Fax: (+2721) 761-3913
Cell: 083 250 8542
E-mail: mpd@equityestates.co.za


Equity Estates
 
     
     
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