Building Enterprise.

Lake Wakatip Mail, Issue 3996, 21 April 1931, Page 4

Building Enterprise.

MT. COOK TOURIST CO.’S NEW OFFICE. The Mt. Cook Tourist Co.’s new office, which was recently completed, constitutes a valuable addition to the business premises of Queenstown. Situated in a_ commanding position at the corner of Rees and Ballarat streets and the Marine Parade, and designed with three handsome facades in Eastern design, it forms an architectural ornament which any modern town might well be proud of. The structure is built in ferro concrete and measures 33ft by 14ft, with walls 13ft high. The end of the office facing the lake is obtuse-angled to conform with the contour of the breakwater. The outside walls are rough-cast in Moeraki gravel and the overhanging eaves are attractively ornamented. The base is of Milburn grey cement. A feature of the building is the entrance, which is recessed and is pillared and roofed in Pagoda fashion. Wide concrete steps set off in red oxide lead up to long glass-panelled swing doors. Excellent lighting is provided by large plate glass windows with top lead lights. The roof is painted in red oxide, which effects a pleasing contrast. The interior walls are finished off with Keene’s white cement, and the ceiling is constructed of Wardrop’is fibrous plaster sectionally overlaid with wooden battens. The pine floors are stained, making a tasteful setting for rugs of Maori design and Mission furniture* " The whole structure reflects great credit on the company’s architect, Mr Hah (Timaru), and on the builder, Mr W. Shore of Gore, and his workmen! In this connection it is worthy of mention thaf Mr Eric Scheib, a district tradesman, directed the plastering and ornamental work.’