Lorna Court: Fire-ravaged historical building built in 1931

Old, dilapidated and beautiful are words seldom used in the same sentence, but all three words perfectly describe this Joburg building.

Exploring Johannesburg on the border of Joubert Park and Hillbrow, City Buzz came upon a building that looked rich in history and we had to find out more.

According to the City of Joburg, the building called Lorna Court was an ‘architectural jewel’ which was built in 1931.

It was previously known as the beautifully-designed building in the city where chauffeur-driven Rolls Royces passed nightly, as the fabulous people of the city – and it’s important to note that Hillbrow was one of the most popular, lively and safe places to visit at that time – made their way to and from soirees and social gatherings.

The Daily Maverick noted, “Lorna Court, a block of apartments encapsulating all Johannesburg’s supposed potential to become the next Manhattan, stands for many as a symbol of the City of Gold’s decline.”

According to Working the City blog , the building – which was not in a great state before it was abandoned – has come to be known as the place where a fire ravaged the building and took the lives of many.

The Daily Maverick further explains that the fire took place 11 years ago as a couple got into a heated argument during which the husband set his wife alight, and successfully burnt the entire building.

Many people died and many were injured in their attempts to escape the burning building by jumping from the higher-level balconies.

Looking upon the building, City Buzz was approached by a man at the building. “You can’t take pictures here, it’s not ready yet,” said a security guard on the lot.

We’re doubtful that there is any development set to take place here, but if we take to heart the words of the building’s security guard, maybe we can expect something great on the lot in the near future.

Details: joburg.org.za; www.dailymaverick.co.za; workingthecity.wordpress.com