Centre for the Book, Provincial heritage building near Company Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa.
The Centre for the Book is a building with classical Edwardian architecture situated near Company Gardens. It features a ceremonial hall and a central reading room topped with a substantial dome.
The building was constructed starting in 1913 as the seat of the University of the Cape of Good Hope, funded by donations from Willem Hiddingh and Donald Currie. Over time, it transitioned through different uses before becoming the cultural institution it is today.
The centre plays an active role in promoting reading, writing, and publishing across South African languages. Visitors can encounter exhibitions that celebrate local authors and the work of publishers in the region.
The space can host events with 60 to 140 seated guests and closes at midnight. Music is permitted until 23:00 when attending gatherings in the building.
The building contains a specialized elevator that opens in three directions to adapt to its particular architectural layout. This technical detail reflects the creative problem-solving of its original designers.
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