COLOUR AND TEXTURE

Dominion, Volume 28, Issue 167, 11 April 1935, Page 17

COLOUR AND TEXTURE

Exterior Decoration of Prudential Building An outstanding example of modern commercial architecture, the Prudential Assurance Company’s new building on Lambton Quay is a further striking instance of the decorative results which may be achieved by means of the judicious use of coloured concrete. The exterior decoration of the Prudential building is an example of colour toning which provides a charming and striking effect with its delicate pastel shades of pink and quietly contrasting cream. “Colour and texture” is the keynote of the exterior decoration of the building, and with imagination, one can visualise the transformation which may easily be effected in the streets of our cities by the increasing use. of coloured cement as a decorative medium upon public and commercial buildings. For coloured stucco work, such as that so strikingly displayed on the Prudential building, not only is the most careful selection of material necessary, but the most accurate and exacting blending of colours is also required. Messrs. Frarcis Holmes Ltd.. Taranaki Street, Wellington, were responsible for the supply of the necessary coloured cements and specially selected aggregates and sands used upon the Prudential building. This company, with its many years of experience in the cement industry, was quick to realise the possibilities of coloured stucco', arid with their expert knowledge, efficient service and comprehensive stocks of coloured Portland cements, and special aggregates and sand, are always at the disposal of architects, builders or their clients, who may desire to make colour and texture a feature of their buildings.