Milton Chambers

Statement of Significance

The place built in 1901/02 is of aesthetic significance as a Federation Free Classical style constructed during the period of economic affluence and increased development that followed the gold boom.
The place is of historic significance because it represents the expansion and development of commerce and trade in the City of Perth in the early years of the twentieth century.

Physical Description

Two storey commercial building with roof surface concealed by parapet, distinguished by prominent classical cornice, rustication to pilasters and large window openings. Altered at ground floor level.

History

Until the 1880s the town centre was characterised by the establishment of small cottages, shops and small businesses and was rural in character. The expansion of commerce following the discovery of gold in the 1890s put pressure on land in the centre of Perth with the result that most residential uses were displaced in favour of commercial development. During the 1890s and early 1900s the centre of Perth was substantially rebuilt. The period of expansion in Perth coincided with a period of economic depression in the eastern states, in particular Victoria. As a result, there was substantial migration to WA which included businessmen, architects and builders, all of whom had a considerable influence on the development of the city. Pier Street was scantly developed in 1895, but by 1900 the street is developed from the river all the way north to Newcastle Street.
The Post Office Directory first lists the building as No. 66 in 1902. It was occupied by Holdway, Durbridge and Co., plumbers. Numbering changed in 1908 to No.44, still occupied by the same business. The Metropolitan Water Supply Survey plan (1943) shows the building as No. 44. It is a small square footprint, with another building to the rear. In 1949 the post office directory lists the building as being occupied by various tenants including a hairdresser supplier, plumbers and a tailor.
From the street the place presents as a two-storey commercial building with its roof concealed by a parapet that displays ‘Milton Chambers’ in stucco lettering. There is a prominent classical cornice, rustication to pilasters and five, large, curved window openings to the upper level. It has been altered at street level with three separate shopfronts, all with awning to ground glazing.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity - High level of integrity.
Authenticity - Intact above ground floor level. Substantially intact at street level.

Condition

Good

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.