Is South African architecture based on international architecture? South African architecture is known for its influences from countries like France and Germany which have contributed to the iconic international architectural landscape still present across the country today. One such example is Sanlam Plaza by architects Theunissen and Jankowits in Bloemfontein. To try to understand or dissect Sanlam Plaza, more recently known as Bloem Plaza, one must first understand the true meaning and intent of post-modernism, also known as second modernism. To better understand this movement and its impact in South Africa, it will be compared to a Renaissance building whose facade is very similar, namely the Palazzo Chigi-Odescalchi. Postmodernism can simply be identified as an “anti-modern” movement (The Postmodern Moment, page 19). Marvin Trachtenberg describes it as: “An architectural phase that embraces overt historicism, garish symbolism, vivid ornamentation, and humble vernacular patterns” (Trachtenberg, 1986. Pg. 553). Post-modernism emphasizes existing styles and classic forms, but contains a modern approach to its design. The idea of ​​texture, color, and profile reappears during this period, as evidenced in designs such as The Portland Building, Oregon by Michael Graves. Space is also discussed in more traditional terms. The walls once again form elements that contain volumes, contradicting the modernist approach of the free plan or “infinite space” (ibid.). The works of architects such as Philip Johnson (e.g. AT&T Building), Robert Venturi (e.g. Guild House), and Charles Moore (e.g. Piazza d'Italia) are all good examples of post-modern designs. Robert Venturi, comments that: "I try to let myself be guided not by habit ...... middle of paper ...... recurve bow. These are not present in Chigi-Odescalchi. The interior of Bloem Plaza also focuses on traditional design elements such as large columns with bands of tile detail. The floor is made of tiles which, through the use of colors, form patterns. Other features are heavily embellished elevators and handrails at all staircases. The roof of the food court also contains extravagant circular details to highlight the main space of the structure. By understanding the definition of post-modernism and being able to identify so many traditional and classic elements that have been approached in a modern way, one must conclude that Bloem Plaza is a post-modern building. It draws inspiration from classical movements that date as far back as Greek and Roman architecture, leading to an international architectural landscape that still impacts the way we design today..