Here are some old photographs of the Old Grey Instite.....

BUILDING ANALYSIS

The two-storey building is built in the classic Neo-Gothic architectural style. The Neo-Gothic style typically hosts buttresses with Gothic pointed arches; tourelles, pinnacles, towers and spires; intricate tracery, foils and stained glass windows; and fleche (the slender spires with ornate details on the roof or on the towers) (Walking Melbourne 2001: 1). The Old Grey Institute boasts all of the above details and make for beautiful architecture. The large stained glass windows that allow maximum light into the space and beautiful reflections that create a peaceful aura in the buildings interior (Building Systems for Interior Designers 2010:44).

The arrangement of the building is focused around the double-storey corps de logis; this is where the clock tower was later added. On either side of central building is a mirrored L-shaped section. There are also two out building also built in the Neo-Gothic style. The shape of the building allows for many private spaces and for the implementation of multi-functions. The layout creates interest and is also very functional.

The building is located directly across from the Donkin Reserve, which allows for breath-taking views and an easy integration into the community and city life. The location is both central (easy to stop of straight after work), as well as private (the institute is surrounded by vast open spaces). This allows for privacy and peace, as well as accessibility. This also ensures a reduced level in noise and other disturbances.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE BUILDING

In the 1850’s Port Elizabeth saw a great increase in the need and desire for higher educations; and thus the institutes of higher educations. Sir George Grey, the Governor took it upon himself to encourage the establishment of such institutions. In 1856 Mr Archibald was appointed to draw up the plans for the Grey Institute and by 1858 the school was completed and ready for occupation. The school was named in honour of the Governor, Sir George Grey for his tremendous contribution towards the educational system in Port Elizabeth. The school was formally opened in 1859. The main feature of the building, the clock tower was only added in 1875. By 1915 the school body had grown too large for the facilities; the Grey high school was moved to new facilities and the Old Grey Institute became the Pearson High School, then the Albert Jackson Primary School (Grey Institute 2011: 1). The Old Grey Institute was acknowledged as a National Monument under old NMC legislation on 10 December 1976 (Grey Institute School 2010: 2). 

THE BUILDING

The building that I have chosen is the Old Grey Institute; situated on Prospect Hill at number 1 on the corner of Pearson Street and Belmont Terrace in Central, Port Elizabeth.

INTRODUCTION; BTECH PROPOSAL...
Firstly to introduce the topic of studies that will be covered throughout my Btech year; after much thought and contemplation the topic chosen for studies has been a hospice and counselling centre. Now this may sound strange; however there is both a need within the community, as well as the topic being based on deep-set psychological theories. This will allow for the introduction of positive aspects to a topic that is generally viewed as gloomy and depressing; as well as providing a basis for interesting research in the treatise.