This reinforced concrete building on Devon Street East was built in 1925 for Mr L.H. Johnson. A permit was issued to him on 9 June 1925. The contractors were Boon Bros and the estimated cost was £5,000. It was designed by the firm, Messenger, Griffiths and Taylor. (Taranaki Herald & Budget Weekly 6 June 1925 p.54)
Lawrence (Laurie) Johnson set up the motor vehicle dealership, L.H. Johnson Motors Ltd. It is likely this building was used as a showroom.
The NPDC 1995 CBD Heritage Study describes it as, "a classically designed building with the main Devon Street elevation divided by six Doric pilasters supporting a bracketed cornice and plain geometric pediment."
The original drawings for the building are amongst NPDC building files. There is also a document which contains all the specifications of the materials required and work to be done in the construction of the building.
Further reading:
"Expanding with Taranaki: The First Fifty Years of L.H.Johnson Motors Ltd" (TRCT658.89 HOB).
Taranaki Herald Supplement - celebrating their 50th jubilee. (5 May 1969).
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