Chimuti

Statement of Significance

Interesting variant of "Federation Bungalow" set in park-like surrounds.

Physical Description

"Chimuti" is an interesting variant of "Federation Bungalow" built c1913 by J. E. Lee who purchased the
land from the estate of Alexander Forrest. With renovations in the 1930s when the block was
subdivided. It has a prominently regular half-timbered pattern in the gable which stands proud of a
second leading into the hipped corrugated iron roof. The projecting gable, forming a porch, is supported
by groups of cast Tuscan cement columns on brick piers. Between these is an unusual pierced stucco
brick screen. The triple multi-paned windows to this porch are double-hung set in red tuckpointed brick
with a stucco string course. Elsewhere there are casement windows with corrugated iron awnings. A
more recently enclosed section of the verandah has double-hung windows above asbestos sheeting. A
small second porch/verandah has wooden verandah posts and tapered slats beneath the wooden
handrail. A recent cast-iron-lace security door is a jarring note. The house like its neighbour no 8 a
"Californian Bungalow" of sorts is set well back in treed park-like surroundings. The house had
renovations to the rear in 1983. Originally it was called Ermelo.

History

Although the owners think the house was built 1907-10. The rate books appear to indicate 1913 as a more likely date.
The block was subdivided and the house was renovated in the 1930s and has "Art Deco" detailing inside. This would
have been for Katie Williams who purchased it in 1934. In 1964 Alfred and Barbara Heam purchased it and sold to the
current owners in 1985. In 1983 the beams made major renovations to the rear of the house. It received some sort of
publicity as a finalist in the Master Builder "Housing Excellence Awards" May 1983.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity Reasonable
Modifications 1930s additions and renovations in Art Deco style

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.