McDonald Building

Parent Place or Precinct

10903 Barrack Street Precinct

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 a representative example of a commercial building constructed in Perth during the period of development and consolidation following the gold boom.

Physical Description

142-150 Murray Street -

Two storey commercial building with decorative parapet and pediments. Facades characterised by articulated windows with arched openings, pilasters and extensive use of decorative stucco work. Building addresses the corner. Loss of original detail at street level. Awning not original.

114 Barrack Street -

Two storey commercial building with large arched windows. Street facade distinguished by pilasters, tourelles and florid motifs. Shop front modified with modern shop fittings. Awning not original. Part of the adjacent McDonald Building.

History

McDonald Building is situated on the corner of Murray Street and Barrack Street.

Hay Street was established along with St George's Terrace and Murray Street as one of the main streets of Perth from the time of settlement in 1929. It remained a major commercial street throughout the twentieth century and, for most of that time, was characterised by traffic, including trams. The character of the street changed after part of it became a mall in the 1970's.

Barrack Street was so named because it is located adjacent to the parade ground and barracks set aside for the original planning of Perth for officers and soldiers. This area extended from St George's Terrace to Hay Street and from Barrack Street to Pier Street. The barrack ground formed the buffer in the original plan for Perth between the western commercial area and the eastern administrative part of town. The area became the site for various government buildings including the Town Hall in 1867.

Barrack Street was subdivided in the 1890's. Many lots with narrow frontages were created but Many investors bought adjacent lots to develop larger buildings.

(Extracted from G. Seddon & D. Ravine; 'A City and its Setting'; Fremantle 1986)

Example of a commercial building constructed in Perth during the period of expansion and development that followed the gold rush of the 1890's.

Integrity/Authenticity

Has lost original detail at ground floor level but intact above.

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.