Munster House

Statement of Significance

The place is of aesthetic significance as an example of a commercial building constructed during the inter war period.

The place is of historic significance because it reflects the period of affluence and optimism following the end of World War 1.

The significance of the place is increased because it remains substantially intact.

Refer to Conservation Management Plan prepared by I Hocking November 1996 for CAMS.

Physical Description

Three storey commercial building with simple classical detailing to the facade with strong rectangular emphasis. Facade comprising regular bays with windows with attractive detailing. Loss of original detailing at ground floor level.

History

In 1890 Western Australia achieved responsible government. This, combined with the discoveries of gold in the early 1890's, provided the catalyst for development in Perth.

Prior to the 1890's the western end of the city in the area around King Street was characterised by workers' cottages with shops, coal yards, smithies and foundries located in the adjacent areas of Murray and Hay Street. In the mid 1890's some smaller businesses began to establish themselves in existing cottages and a number of larger enterprises erected substantial new offices and warehouses in the area. Earlier uses primarily served the local population, however this later development was more broadly based and was a direct response to the expansion of the city centre during the gold rush.

The period from the 1890's to the early decades of the twentieth century was characterised by a vigorous public works programme and corresponding expansion of commerce and trade. During this period, the character of the area was established.

Part of a group of 12 showrooms, the warehouses cover the period from 1905-1929. The older buildings are of load-bearing brick construction and show considerable variation within the prevailing classical style of the period. The buildings constructed after 1910 either directly continue Victorian classicism into Edwardian Classicism or else are transitions into the modernist movement expressing the structure frame. [ Refer COP Heritage Places File 1.10/357]

Refer to Conservation Management Plan prepared by A L Hocking November 1996 for CAMS

Integrity/Authenticity

Medium level of integrity.

Medium level of authenticity as it has original detailing at ground floor level but intact above.

Condition

Good

Uses

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.