Phineas Seeligson's (fmr), Perth

Statement of Significance

The place is of aesthetic significance because it is a recognised landmark in the City of Perth.
The place is of aesthetic significance as an example of a commercial building constructed during the period of economic affluence and increased development that followed the gold boom.
The place is of historic significance because it reflects the expansion and development of commerce and trade in the City of Perth in the early years of the twentieth century.
The place is a representative example of a commerical building constructed in Perth during the period of development and consolidation following the gold boom.

Physical Description

Narrow three-storied building with parapet gable (which features a pair of double hung sash windows set under moulded arches), balconies and decorative embellishment to entablature. The first floor features a pair of glazed panel doors with fanlights above which originally opened out onto the balcony of a verandah which has been dismantled (remnants of the verandah's original cast iron decoration guard the doors). The original shop front to the ground floor has been modernised over the years.

History

The building is of architectural interest in terms of its approach to achieving a functional design on a very narrow site. It is illustrative of how the business classes worked and lived in late nineteenth century Perth. Previously known as Seeligson's building and at one time, a pawn shop. COP Heritage Places File 1.34/143.

Barrack Street was so named because it is located adjacent to the parade ground and barracks set aside in the original planning of Perth for officers and soldiers. This area extended from S. George's Terrace to Hay S. and from Barrack St to Pier St. The barrack ground formed the buffer in the original plan for Perth between the western commercial area and the eastern administrative part of town. The area later became the site for various government buildings including the Town Hall in 1867.

Barrack St was subdivided in the 1890's. A number of lots with narrow frontages were created but a number of investors bought adjacent lots in order to develop larger buildings. (Extracted from G. Seddon & D. Ravine; A City and Its Setting; Fremantle 1986)

Until the 1880's, the town centre was characterised by the establishment of small cottages, shops and small businesses and was rural in character. The expansion of commerce following the discovery of gold in the 1890's put pressure on land in the centre of Perth with the result that most residential uses were displaced in favour of commercial development. During the 1890's and early 19900's the centre of Perth was substantially rebuilt.

The period of expansion in Perth coincided with a period of economic depression in the eastern states, in particular Victoria. As a result, there was substantial migration from Victoria to W.A. This migration included businessmen, architects and builders, all of whom had a considerable influence on the development of the city.

Integrity/Authenticity

High level of integrity as the place continues to be used for commercial purposes.

Moderate level of authenticity as it is substantially intact above but the ground floor level has been altered.

Condition

Fair

Uses

Historic Themes

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.