National Tobacco Company Building

The National Tobacco Company Building in Napier, New Zealand is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture.

Designed by J.A. Louis Hay after the 1931 earthquake that destroyed Napier, the building was commissioned by German tobacco tycoon Gerhard Husheer. The building's design combines Art Deco forms with the industrial aesthetic of the time, featuring a stepped facade, a central tower, and a series of horizontal lines that create a sense of movement and dynamism. The building's exterior is adorned with intricate details, including geometric patterns, stylized flora, and a series of sculptures that depict tobacco leaves and other motifs related to the tobacco industry.

Inside, the building features a spacious lobby with a marble floor, a grand staircase, and a series of murals that depict the history of tobacco. The building's upper floors were used for tobacco processing and storage, and the basement housed a boiler room and other facilities. Today, the National Tobacco Company Building is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Napier's Art Deco heritage.

The building is located in the Ahuriri neighborhood, around the shore, and is considered by many to be the region's Art Deco masterpiece. Its unique design and intricate details make it a standout example of the Art Deco style. Visitors can admire the building's exterior and take a tour of the interior to learn more about its history and significance. The National Tobacco Company Building is a testament to the resilience of Napier and its ability to rebuild after a devastating natural disaster.