Commercial Building

Parent Place or Precinct

02031 King Street Precinct

Physical Description

Building incorporates 79 King Street Two storey warehouse building addressing the Wellington/King Street corner. The building has simple detailing with double hung sash windows at regular intervals. Early Georgian colonial influence contrasts with the more elaborate facades on King Street buildings.

History

In 1890 Western Australia achieved responsible government. This, combined with the discovery of gold in the early 1890's, provided the catalyst for development in Perth. King Street was gazetted in 1845 and named after King William IV. Prior to the 1890's the area around King Street was characterised by workers' cottages with shops, coal yards, smithies and foundries located in the adjacent areas of Murray and Hay Street. In the mid 1890's some smaller businesses began to establish themselves in existing cottages and a number of larger enterprises erected substantial new offices and warehouses in the area. Earlier uses primarily served the local population, however this later development was more broadly based and was a direct response to the expansion of the city centre during the gold rush. The period from the 1890's to early decades of the twentieth century was characterised by a vigorous public works and corresponding expansion of commerce and trade. During this period, the character of the area around King Street was established. This area has recently (1990's) undergone a substantial program of restoration and is now characterised by new uses including cafes, boutiques and professional offices. (Notes extracted from the City of Perth property file: King St.) Warehouse and store constructed for Pilms and Co produce merchants. A clothing factory was located on the first floor of the building.

Uses

Creation Date

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