Victoria Mansions : 124 Victoria Embankment
Architects : Nelson Secombe
1935

Victoria Mansions, although taller, is comparable to Miami Art Deco, sitting comfortably in its beach & subtropical setting. Painted light blue and white, situated amongst palm trees and looking over the harbour, this building has a delightful holiday atmosphere. Motifs include mostly maritime symbols eg. dolphins & fish, a tiled mural of a Union Castle Mailship entering Durban harbour with the bluff as a backdrop. It also has the traditional chevron bands associated with the deco style. Of interest are another set of winged lions and two eagles that guard the entrance. Like the Enterprise, it could be construed that the eagle motif resembles the fasces so loved by the Italian Fascists. Arched picture windows also characterise the building.

The foyer contains a quaint letterbox unit built from wood and decorated with strong zigzag or zigarat steps. The building is in good condition although it is situated on what is now a very busy road.