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Anstey's: back on the map

Photo: Phew! What a view ... there's no beating it in Jozi ...

Space at Anstey’s is also available for exhibitions, sundowners and parties, although, owing to the many neighbours, these are not to be of the noisy, intoxicated variety. Definitely only private parties!
For hot young trendies, there is nothing like it available at the same altitude, save for the top of the Lister building, used for occasions like the Coalstove screenings, but that is much bigger at 700 square meters.

“People who have used this space have become fascinated by Anstey’s, and many of them have bought into the building,” says Brian, who owns a significant part of Anstey’s himself. “We’d like to get a little community going here.”
“There are many ‘refurbs’ on the Joburg market right now,” he explains, pointing out a great number of redone buildings around Anstey’s, which towers over the corner of Joubert and Jeppe Streets. “But the people who live in them do so only because they work here. Joburg needs young, creative people to come into town, get the place going, create a bohemian, arty vibe ...”

Anstey’s is now an art deco national monument. The current Anstey’s building is the third reincarnation, as the building that stands today was built in 1937; the previous two buildings were demolished. It used to be the Norman Anstey & Company department store, famous for its elegant window-dressing seen from the pavement through large plate glass shop-fronts. A tea terrace on the fourth floor was filled with the wives of Joburg’s elite. The foyer still contains some of its old splendour: big floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and several brass frames with climbing brass monkeys.
There’s also a deal of history associated with the particular flat where Space at Anstey’s has found its home. It was once the apartment of playwright, MK member and friend of Nelson Mandela, Cecil Williams. Mandela was posing as Williams’ driver when he was arrested and tried for treason. Sir Lawrence Olivier was also a frequent visitor to Williams’ flat.

“We want to encourage people to overcome their phobia and come back into town. We’d like to get Anstey’s and other beautiful buildings like this back onto the map,” says Thomas. “It’s right on the fringe –between the financial centre of Africa and the gritty urban landscape going north into Hillbrow. It’s kind of spicy ...”

Watch out for a flag flying from the top floor throughout the World Cup! Brian and Thomas plan to be part of the “You make Jozi Great” campaign. To check out this inspirational campaign, go to YouTube. It’s all about what makes Jozi great. To lighten up your day, watch http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfecIrOXrdM 
 
For more info, or to make bookings at Space at Anstey’s, visit www.spaceatansteys.com