HANDSOME CORNER BLOCK

Taranaki Daily News, 9 September 1927, Page 9

HANDSOME CORNER BLOCK

NEW BUILDING IN DEVON STREET. The latest indication of ibe commercial progress of New Plymouth is the completion of a handsome block known as the Devon Building, on the corner of Devon and Liardet Streets. It is a t..0-storied storied structure in reinforced concrete and the exterior is of an imposing design that breaks away from the stereotyped style. A finish of white waterproof cement plaster has been lined in blocks to represent stone, and a contrast is given by red-brown pillasters of glazed pressed brick. A circular cornice adorns the centre of each frontage. There is a length of 83 feet to Devon Street and 53 feet to Liardet Street. Five shops huve been provided on the ground floor, one of them extending round the coiner. The mottled mauve tiles used in the facing beneath the windows are distinctive and were specially imported from England. A wide vestibule on the Devon Street side leads to a broad and easy stairway. A red and white octagonal pattern in rubbei tiles is eventually to be used on the entrance floor and landings. The second floor comprises a dental suite, dressmaker’s apartments, and four large offices. Both ventilation and lighting are features, and hot-points and electric fighting have been installed throughout. The owners are Trust Buildings, Ltd., the architect Mr. George Meuli, of Wanganui, and the contractors Messrs J. T. Julian and Son.