A W Dobbie & Co (fmr)

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.

Physical Description

Symmetrical building with prominent pediment and battlement parapet. Facade embellished with pilasters with decorative details and pointed arched windows with fanlights. Altered at street level with awning not original. The former warehouse building to the rear has been extensively altered and the northern facade removed. STREETSCAPE Important component of the Hay Street west streetscape.

History

Until the 1880's 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 1890's 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 1890's and early 1900's 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 from Victoria to W.A. This migration included businessmen, architects and builders, all of whom had a considerable influence on the development of the city. The building was built in 1904 by Fred Mosey and had remained in the same family ownership from that date.
The warehouse building to the rear was altered including removal of the north facade at the request of the Perth City Council for improved access to the rear laneway.

Integrity/Authenticity

High level of integrity.
Medium level of authenticity as it has lost the original detail at ground floor level but intact above.

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.