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History: Originally the home of a Mr Harwin, after whom Harwin`s arcade is named.

San Souci was designed in 1883 for Richard Harwin, a prominent businessman, by a German architect, Albert Halder. The aesthetic result is interesting as one has a house of European design built of imported British materials. The spaces created within the building a great deal larger than one would expect from a Victorian House, as well as being approximately 20 feet higher. There is a great deal more window space in each room, imparting a very continental flavour, while stylistically rooted in the heavy ornamented Victorian colonial tradition. San Souci is one-of the few great houses built in Pietermaritzburg its opulence, elegance and sense of style make it important to the history of the development of architectural interest in Natal. San Souci was declared a national monument in July 1982."
Visual Description: The entrance portico and pediments are German neoclassical and compare with the fashionable German buildings which were illustrated in the architectural magazines of the period. The portico is from the ground level by a curving staircase at each and which is well ornamented with urns, most of which are still original. The portico gives onto a wide Victorian verandah which surrounds the house completely and is responsible for much of the character of its external facade. The verandah is heavily ornamented with cast iron of an intricate design.
The workmanship during the erection of this pattern was particularly good and jointing is seldom visible. The cast iron ornamentation of the verandah extends to above roof level and is still intact. The front teak door is original and of monumental quality, as befits a house of this type. The glass panels are frosted and bear elaborate etchings use of the swag motif. The door furniture is also original -and of heavy brass. The front door gives onto a large hallway with original encaustic tiles of fleur de lis pattern. Two formal reception rooms lead from the main hell and these contain elegant marble fireplaces which are period pieces with curb fenders, tiled surrounds and cast iron grate, all still intact. Also of interest are the heavy ornamental ceilings in the entrance hail and the two. large reception rooms. The interior of the house, consists of the two main reception rooms, a large dining morning room, private sitting-room, study, a sewing room, six bedrooms, a large storeroom, kitchen, a butler’s pantry, a servery, a washroom and several ablution areas. The servants quarters erected behind the house are large enough to, house six servants.
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Construction Date: 1883-84
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