Durham House

Statement of Significance

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 of social significance because of the associations with the WA Sports Club.

The place is of social significance for associations with the development of dancing in WA and the Joan Stacey Dance School in particular.

Physical Description

Two storey commercial building with battlement parapet and distinctive pediment crowning as arched fanlight window parapet. Street facade is embellished with pilasters and florid motifs but has lost original shop fronts at ground level.

History

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

King Street was gazetted in 1845 and named after King William IV.

Prior to the 1890's 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 early decades of the twentieth century was characterised by a vigorous public works and corresponding expansion of commerce and trade. During this period, the character of the area around King Street was established. This area has recently (1990's) undergone a substantial programme of restoration and is now characterised by new uses including cafes, boutiques and professional offices.

(Notes extracted from the City of Perth property file: King St.)

Durham House was constructed in 1916 with shops at ground level and Joan Stacey's Dance School above. the building was extended along Munster Place in 1924 and then housed Sharpe's Dinning Room.

Integrity/Authenticity

High level of integrity.

Medium level of authenticity as it has lost original detail 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.