Bank of New South Wales (NSW)(fmr)

Parent Place or Precinct

03795 William Street Precinct

Child Places

• 27317 Commercial Building 1907/11, Bank of New South Wales
• 27318 Commercial Building 1897, Bank of New South Wales

Statement of Significance

The place has aesthetic interest due to its Federation style detailing in the façade above the awning.
The place reflects the development boom which occurred north of the railway at the turn of the century, largely due to gold rush prosperity and the influx of migrants.
The place forms part of the vibrant William Street streetscape and contributes to the community’s sense of place. The uses of the building reflect a diversity of commercial activities and occupation by cultural groups that are identifiable characteristics of the local environment.
The place is representative of a Federation style commercial building incorporating a strong street focus and public accessibility.

Physical Description

The two-storey c. 1897 Building is similar to other buildings along William Street at the upper level with a restored tuckpointed brick façade divided into three bays by pilasters, and decorative string course mouldings beneath the timber framed casement windows and the simple horizontal parapet. There are no external features of the original Federation era of construction at ground level.
In 2005, works were undertaken to upgrade the front façade of the existing building and the installation of timber flooring.
The entrance to the building has been relocated to the adjacent 1907/11 building. The original entrance on the northern end of the tenancy to William Street has been replaced with full length glass windows to the street, as have the original metal framed windows with raked glazing, set back at the base.
In 2013, fit out works associated with a small bar use were approved for the rear of the building and rear of adjacent 1907/11 building for the subject site including:
The demolition of rear additions and the removal of two staircases;
Internal works to remaining staircases;
Removal of the existing awning, being replaced with a new steel awning and a new contemporary glass and steel canopy to the rear of the building facing James Street;
Installation of new doors and balustrades along the William Street façade;
Construction of new kitchen and toilet facilities; and
Construction of a new outdoor courtyard including stairs and ramping leading from James Street.
Currently the front tenancy (to William Street) is occupied by ‘Sauma’ Indian restaurant.

History

During the 1890’s, the gold-rushes had a profound impact on the state’s economy. Commercial and residential development was rapid in all parts of the town and land became a sought after commodity. Hutt Street (renamed William Street in 1897/98) underwent massive changes during this period with Perth Town Lot Y15, being the land on Hutt Street between Francis and James streets, sold in six portions between 1882 and 1886.The northern portion was subdivided into Lots 1&2 in 1896 and a building licence issued to Levi Green in 1897. It is assumed this was for the two-storey ‘c. 1897 Building’ on the former Lot 2.

Integrity/Authenticity

Medium level of integrity.
Medium level of authenticity.

Condition

Fair

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.