Dick Smith Electronics Building & Co

Statement of Significance

The place was 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 was of aesthetic significance because it contributes to the visual quality of its location.
The place was 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 was a representative example of a commercial building constructed in Perth during the period of development and consolidation following the gold boom.

Physical Description

Two storey commercial building with battlement parapet and decorative triangular permits. Facade embellished with pilasters and archivists. Loss of original detailing to ground floor shop fronts. Awning not original.
Partial demolition in 1988, façade remains.

History

Part of State Registered place 'William & Wellington Street Precinct' (P 16743) Between the Wentworth Hotel and the Royal Hotel on William Streets were a number of shops, (Nos. 119-139), dating from the gold boom period of development. The Metropolitan Water Supply Survey plan (1942) shows the numbers changes to 123-145 between the two hotels. Following is a description of the building from the State Register entry document for 'William & Wellington Street Precinct': "William Street Commercial Buildings, a group of two storey retail and commercial buildings, was constructed c. 1895. The group originally extended further south but in the mid-1980s three shops between 125 and 129 William Street were removed as part of the University of Western Australia’s Raine Square development to allow pedestrian access to the square at the rear. During the works, remaining shop fronts were altered and modernised at ground floor level, rear outbuildings removed and rear elevations modified. "In 2006 Raine Square was redeveloped again and all but the facade of the commercial building (Nos. 131-145) adjacent to the Royal Hotel was demolished.

Integrity/Authenticity

Low level of integrity.
Low level of authenticity.

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.