The background, architectural philosopy and work of Hellmut Wilhelm Ernst Stauch

Abstract

The thesis deals with Stauch’s childhood background, his youth and early involvement with sailing, art and architecture in Germany. The initial belief that he received his architectural training at the Bauhaus was investigated and found to be incorrect. The details of his training at the Ittenschule, his employment by first Forbat and then Peters, and his private practice in Berlin are described. The circumstances of his move from Berlin to South Africa and his employment by Nunn are discussed. The establishment of his own office in Pretoria, his registration with the Institute of South African Architects and a short-lived partnership with Wepener followed by the establishment of his present practice now known as Stauch Vorster, is described. Stauch’s architectural approach and philosophy are discussed in broad terms. Illustrations of his work are included chronologically within the text.