IN-PERSON Barcelona. Section B

Abstract

This paper deals with conservation of buildings in the Karoo region. The Karoo region of South Africa is a thinly populated semi-desert area covering a large section of the south-western part of the country. Economic sustainability has been and remains a challenge for buildings of historical importance and businesses in this area where farming with sheep and angora goats is the major economic activity. Research by the author has shown that in the Karoo, hotels are the building type where the Art Deco style was used most, possibly to counter a rural self-consciousness and the desire to express notions of modernity in this rural context. Furthermore, this was done to attract travelers who often were from urban environments. Disappointingly, historical and heritage societies in the Karoo have disregarded Art Deco buildings and offered them no protection or support. Yet, despite the difficult economic and cultural contexts, most of these hotels have survived and remain in business. This paper, using case-study methodology, will compare three Art Deco Hotels in the Karoo to compare their histories, design, and physical layout and how their Art Deco designs were combined with conservation and marketing strategies to remain sustainable business establishments. The purpose will be to highlight the importance of design in the creation of sustainable projects, towns and regions.