MANNING BUILDINGS, 40-62 MARKET STREET

Statement of Significance

The place is a fine example of a Federation Free Classical style building, with elaborate stucco decoration above the ground floor level, that makes a significant contribution to the streetscape. The place is of historic significance as part of a group of buildings known collectively as the Manning Buildings, built in the first decade of the twentieth century by the Manning family and believed to have been designed by the prominent architectural firm of Cavanagh and Cavanagh. Awning and shop fronts are not significant.

Physical Description

Two storey rendered and truncated corner building with a zero setback from the pavement, adjoined and part of 109-113 High Street. The building is more decorative from High Street to 48 Market Street. The decorative balustrade parapet has six gables; one facing High Street, four in Market Street and one across the corner; this gable and one either side have decorative stucco featuring a figure head insert. The ground floor has the capitals from engaged pilasters intact and has a corrugated iron veranda awning; numbers 42,52,54,58 and 62 have recessed entrances. The first floor has engaged ashlar effect pilasters extending to become decorative above the parapet. The arched windows have decorative mullions and stucco and arched windows.

History

The Manning Buildings comprise: 109-113 High Street, 115-119 High Street, 121-137 High Street, 1-5 William Street, 40-62 Market Street and 36-50 South Terrace. The Manning family emigrated to Australia in the 1830s and became the biggest landowners in Fremantle. The Manning buildings were built from 1902 to 1906 for a cost of £2,243, as an investment, by the trustees for the Manning Bros. Estate. The National Trust assessment cites Cavanagh & Cavanagh as the main architects for the buildings with various builders for the different stages. The Majestic Theatre (115-135 High Street) formed part of the development. There was public objection when, as part of a refurbishment in 1986, three of the shops were demolished to allow access to the shopping mall. Bruce Robinson & Assoc. photographic record in file 1989 for Manning Arcade Project. Currently (2002), the buildings house various retail and commercial uses.

Uses

Creation Date

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