Contact Artefacts please if you have any comments or more information regarding this record.	Menu Home Upfront Now Up Books Towns Structures People Firms Lexicon		Seahurst Hotel - Robin Gordon Hotel St James, Western Cape John PERRY: Architect 1916

Date: n.d. : 1916 : 1920 Client: Seahurst Hotels (Pty) Ltd | Captain John Gentry Type: Hotel Status: Demolished 1994 Street: Cnr Main & Kimberley Roads

Located on the southern border of St. James along Main and Kimberley Roads, Seahurst Hotel was a distinguished establishment in St. James, formed by combining two adjacent houses. The north house, originally Eksteen's Guest House, a charming Tudor-style building, was purchased by Seahurst Hotels (Pty) Ltd. circa 1900 from Eksteen's deceased estate, with the south house acquired around 1905. The linked complex, known as Seahurst Hotel, featured well-maintained gardens and an impressive driveway. In 1911, under proprietor Captain John Gentry, a thatched bungalow and tennis court were added, and a third house on Kimberley Road enhanced its status as a premier holiday destination. In 1916 John PERRY designed a new frontage, sea-facing lounge, entrance, office on the north corner, a conservatory and new cottage at the back of the hotel, and new rooms on the south side. However, a 1920 flat-roof extension, including a dining area, bar, billiard room, and reception, diminished its aesthetic appeal, marking the decline of its heyday. The hotel was converted into a Convalescent Home during World War II, called the Seahurst Auxiliary Military Hospital. Sold to Good Hope Hotels (Pty) Ltd in 1945 and renamed the Robin Gordon Hotel, it faced liquidation in 1963 amid a decline in Muizenberg's seaside hotels, driven by new star-ratings. After multiple owners, the hotel was demolished in 1994, with its iconic Norfolk pine and a 100-year-old palm tree felled. A 52-unit housing complex now stands on the site. (Condensed from: Kalk Bay Historical Association, Bulletins 3 and 15.) Submitted by Paul van der Merwe.