New bank building, Land and Agricultural Bank of South Africa (Landbank), Kroonstad : plans 07901-01 to 07901-04

Abstract

First of a two part file on the new Bank Building at Kroonstad, O.F.S., for the Land and Agricultural Bank of South Africa (Landbank). Sketchplans, elevations, section and two perspectives in pencil.

Similar to his other bank designs, Eaton used the stepped brick exterior treatment, horizontality of composition, low walls and plant boxes and a generous transition from street to building. Different to his earlier bank designs is the flat roof. He also uses a terra-cotta ‘bamboo’ screen in front of some windows. See Harrop-Allin’s description of the building: “In all, this interior strikes a fine, sympathetic balance between an uncluttered modern consciousness, and, though achieved by simple means, a baronial nobility”. (1975: 45-47)