Schmidt-Lademann House

Statement of Significance

The place has aesthetic value as an intact example of the late 20th century international style and as a landmark in the streetscape. This residence and other examples of Iwanoff's work are a comprehensive and notable group of buildings which demonstrate a specific design style and period. The place has historic value for its association with prominent architect, Iwan Iwanoff who was influential in Western Australian practice for his non traditional approach to design and materials drawn from European trends. The place has historic value for its association with the late 1950s to the 1970s which was characterised as a period of affluence which was teamed with a willingness to experiment with new styles and materials. The place has social value as the house and others of Iwanoff's design are the source of study and interest amongst members of the community.

Physical Description

Part single storey part double storey house with distinctive skillion roofline extending across the full width of the house, terminating in an extensive balcony to the side elevation with tall concrete columns presenting in a stark angular form. A further balcony extends across part of the façade with timber balustrade. The façade is dominated by full height glazed panels and characteristic rubble stone panel wall.

History

Iwan Nickolow Iwanoff (1919-1986) was born in Kusstendil, Bulgaria. After studying architecture in Munich at the Technische Hochschule from 1941, Iwanoff worked for Emil Freymuth with the pair winning second prize in the competition to rebuild the central area of Munich. Migrating to Australia as part of the International Refugee Organization resettlement scheme, Iwanoff and his wife arrived at Fremantle, on 2 March 1950. He worked with architecture firm Kranz and Sheldon and also Yuncken and Freeman in Melbourne. In 1963, he established his own practice, The Studio of Iwanoff. A gifted architect, Iwanoff had exceptional drawing abilities, an innovative 'expressionistic' approach to design and detailing and, above all, a conviction that architecture was an art. In 1963-86 his small office produced work of high quality, including numerous houses. He also designed shop fronts and interiors in central Perth, and one larger project, the civic administration centre and public library at Northam (1969-74). His creative use of concrete blocks is a noted feature of his work. Many of the Iwanoff residences designed in the 1960s and 1970s were in the new northern suburbs of Perth where there was often minimal surrounding development and often a clientele willing to explore new styles and techniques. Plans and specifications for this residence were prepared by Iwanoff’s studio in 1958 for Siegfried SchmidtLademann who was appointed as German consul in Perth in 1957. The residence was designed for private living for Siegfried and Jutta Schmidt-Lademann and their family, and for formal receptions. The house was built in 1958 however in 1959 the consulate in Perth was closed and the house was sold. Since construction the place has had minor additions and alterations in 2001 and 2003 but the form and extent of the original construction is clear.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High

Condition

Excellent

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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