Rechabite Hall

Statement of Significance

AESTHETIC VALUE*
Rechabite Hall is a distinctive example of the Inter-War Free Classical style
typical of Edwin Summerhayes' later city buildings. Both internally and
externally, the materials, scale and form of Rechabite Hall demonstrate a
competent use of classical elements and detailing, exhibiting the skill of the
designer. The façade, entry foyer and hall are particularly fine examples of
1920's Free Classical architecture. (Criterion 1.1)
Rechabite Hall contains several fine internal architectural features, including the
mosaic tile floor and tile dado of the entry hall, the well preserved main jarrah
staircase with its fine balustrades, and the upper foyer and fine vaulted ceiling
of the main hall, which are extensively lined with pressed metal embossed
with decorative patterns, of high artistic quality. (Criterion 1.1)
Rechabite Hall is a key component of the eastern streetscape of William Street
between Roe and Newcastle Street. (Criterion 1.3)
Rechabite Hall is a local landmark, enhanced by its central location within the
William Street streetscape, located at the northern gateway to the city centre.
The façade of Rechabite Hall differs markedly from its neighbours and its scale,
proportions and detailing are more typical of the larger buildings south of the
railway. (Criterion 1.3)
11. 2. HISTORIC VALUE
The construction of Rechabite Hall in 1924, as part of the remarkably coherent
William Street streetscape, expresses the confidence of the Northbridge area,
and clearly shows the development that occurred north of the city following
the 1890s goldrush and the building of the Horseshoe Bridge over the railway
in 1902. Rechabite Hall is one of the few buildings of classically inspired
architecture to be erected north of the railway line. (Criterion 2.1)
Rechabite Hall was purpose built for the Independent Order of Rechabites, one
of 15 friendly societies that have been registered in Western Australia, which
had a large following during the early decades of the 20th century and
continues with smaller numbers. (Criterion 2.2)
As a provider of mixed-use facilities housing a variety of commercial uses and
having notable ethnic diversity, Rechabite Hall is indicative of the development
of Northbridge during the 20th century, and the character for which
Northbridge is recognised today. (Criterion 2.2)
Rechabite Hall is the last of the major works designed by Edwin
Summerhayes, an influential architect of the goldrush period in Coolgardie,
and in early 20th century Perth. Summerhayes was responsible for the design
of various commercial premises and residences in Coolgardie and Perth
including the Coolgardie Town Hall (1898); the Coolgardie Mining Exhibition
Building (1898) and Kobeelya, Katanning (1902). (Criterion 2.3)
SOCIAL VALUE
As an old time dance hall in the 1920s and 1930s, Rechabite Hall represents an
early beginning to the entertainment function that characterises Northbridge
in the late 20th and early 21st century. Its function as a hall, providing
performance and entertainment space, is also specifically relevant to the
wider precinct which has operated as a 'Cultural Centre' since the turn of the
20th century. (Criterion 4.1)
Rechabite Hall has played a significant role in the social life of Northbridge, as a
venue for balls, dance exhibitions, church services, conferences, annual
meetings, school productions and an election polling station. (Criterion 4.1)
As a purpose built venue, Rechabite Hall represents the prosperity and impact
of Friendly Societies on the Western Australian community during the early
decades of the 20th century. (Criterion 4.1)
Rechabite Hall is one of only a few remaining major buildings in Western
Australia by well-known architect, Edwin Summerhayes. (Criterion 5.1)
Rechabite Hall is the only remaining Friendly Society building of four
contemporaries that existed in the Cultural Centre vicinity, including the Temperance Hall, Ancient Order of Oddfellows and the Ancient Order of
Foresters building, all of which exhibited a formal street façade and large
ornate hall or assembly area. Most also incorporated retail outlets at the
street frontage. The Ancient Order of Foresters Building on Francis Street
was also designed by Summerhayes. (Criterion 5.1)
12. 2 REPRESENTATIVENESS
Rechabite Hall is representative of the predominance of temperance and
friendly societies in the 1920s and 1930s in Western Australia and the impact
such societies had on the Western Australian community at the time.

History

Assessment 2002

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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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.