British Colonial Architecture in Yangon

Yangon has been under the British rule starting in 1852. Since then, the Myanmar capital has turned into a commercial and political center of the British Burma. This is the reason why the city has impressive British colonial architecture. Its attractive buildings continue to draw so many tourists each year. There are several buildings in Yangon that are characteristic of British architecture, which makes the city swarm with visitors.

Buildings in Yangon that exemplify British Colonial Architecture:

High Court of Rangoon – This building was built in the early 20th century, and served the colonial government for many years. The High Court building has an early colonial style that is painted in brick red. Even though there is a lack of maintenance, the structure still reveals its former glory. The colonial building really sshowcases one of the finest British architecture in Yangon.

Office of the Ministries – The Office of the Ministries building was the former Office of the Secretariats in Burma. It was made the heart and soul of the British Administration since it was built. The building displays a grand and elegant structure that impresses a lot of people visiting Yangon.

Rowe & Co. Building – This is a British colonial department store that was established in Rangoon in 1866. It serves as a place for general merchants owned by Mr. RV Rowe. You can find different stores selling variety of goods in the Rowe & Co. building. Apart from its sold goods, the building also exhibits a wonderful British colonial architecture that attracts so many visitors and remains a favorite of photographers.

Rander House – The Rander House Yangon is located at the corner of Merchant and Pansodan Street. It is a giant building painted in yellow and red that has British colonial architecture features. The building brings in a bright color in the area that stands out among nearby structures.

Sofaer & Co. Building – This building was built in 1906 and is found along the junction of the merchant heart of Yangon. It is a grand building that is owned by Isaac Sofaer and other business owners. Just like the other buildings that show British colonial architecture, the Sofaer & Co. has arch-style windows, and the entire structure is painted in bold and bright color.

Custom House – This is probably one of the most well-preserved British colonial buildings in Rangoon (Yangon). You can find the Custom Court along the Strand Road where a procession of colonial buildings stands. This bright red structure was built by John Begg who also designed the Telegraph Office, which is also found in Yangon.

These colonial buildings are the pride of Yangon. The structures encompass the history of the city and the mixed culture of the Burmese and British peoples.