IMPERIAL CHAMBERS

Statement of Significance

Imperial Chambers is of historic significance as an example of a commercial building in the Old Port City of Fremantle dating from the gold boom period in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. The place is a fine example of a Federation Free Classical style of architecture with elaborate stucco decoration above the ground floor level. The place makes a significant contribution to the streetscape. The place is a significant landmark in the Old Port City of Fremantle. The place is of social significance as evidenced by its classification by the National Trust.

Physical Description

Imperial Chambers, 51-57 Market Street (corner Leake St), is a painted, rendered brick and decorative parapeted two storey commercial building constructed in 1896 as a fine example of the Federation Free Classical style of Architecture. It has a truncated corner with a zero setback from the pavement. There is a bracketed, gabled and engaged balustrade, and a decorative parapet with two gabled decorative pediments. The prominent pediment facing Market Street has 'Imperial Chambers 1896' appearing in stucco. The ground floor has a veranda awning (probably not original). The first floor façade features engaged pilasters extending through the parapet, and dividing pairs of timber sash windows, which have decorative stucco in arches in the aedicule.

A Heritage Assessment was prepared in Aug 2009 by Carrick + Wills Architects for a DA submission to Council (DA248/09) for proposed internal and external alterations and signage to retail premises, Morrison, 55 Market Street.

History

Erected in 1896 for Edwin Foss, and remained in the family until 1947. Currently (2002), various commercial outlets.

A Heritage Assessment was prepared in Aug 2009 by Carrick + Wills Architects for a DA submission to Council (DA248/09) for proposed internal and external alterations and signage to retail premises, Morrison, 55 Market Street.

Integrity/Authenticity

High degree of integrity (original intent clear, current use compatible, high long term sustainability).
High degree of authenticity with much original fabric remaining.
(These statements based on street survey only).

Condition

Condition assessed as good (assessed from streetscape survey only).

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This data is provided by the City of Fremantle. While every care is taken to ensure the accuracy of this data, the City of Fremantle makes no representations or warranties about its accuracy, reliability, completeness or suitability for any particular purpose and disclaims all responsibility and all liability (including without limitation, liability in negligence) for all expenses, losses, damages (including indirect or consequential damage) and costs which you might incur as a result of the data being inaccurate or incomplete in any way and for any reason. Under no circumstances should this data be used to carry out any work without first contacting the City of Fremantle for the appropriate confirmation and approval.