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History: The historical interest attached to the building stems from the fact that it was built for David Hunter, the first General Manager of the Natal Government Rail ways in 1898. David Hunter was a very prominent character in Natal Society and not only became Sir David Hunter when he received the K.C.M.C. in 1901, but was known affectionately in local society as “King David: because of the commanding status which he achieved in almost all walks of life.
In. addition to his role as General Manager of the Natal Government Railways his official appointments included Commissioner of the Natal Harbour Board, Chairman of Port Advisory Board, Chairman of the First General Conference of Railway Officers, Member of Executive Natal Colony, Town Councillor of Durban, Member of Council and Honorary Treasurer of the Natal University College at about its inception, Member of’ Parliament for Durban Central after Union and President of the South African Congregation Union.
It was here at Colinton House that he entertained such prominent visitors as Paul Kruger, Empress Eugene, Duke of Cornwall and Princess Mary, later King George V and Queen Mary.
Proclaimed: 1983"
Visual Description: Colinton House is important architecturally for the unique and subtle way in which it integrates the comfortably, low spreading character of the early Natal verandah house with the imposing two storeyed character of a late nineteenth century Berea villa on the garden side. This integration is achieved by the use of a stair hall with dormer windows and separate hipped roof which occurs over the main entrance. Altogether the rich modulation and expression of the external forms and roofs are balanced by simple verandas, sweeping lines and good detail such as coloured glass windows., encaustic tiled floors and vertically proportioned fenestration. The building is in superb structural and physical condition and offers a very large amount o⁦_x0019_ readily usable accommodation which is surrounded by a fine garden.
Colinton House has considerable townscape value for the, way in which it is sited as a freestanding and sculpturally designed villa allowing the garden to flow around it and opening up the street.
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Site Features: attractive garden
Condition:
Construction Date: 1898
Materials: bricks
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