Melville House

Statement of Significance

Melville House, a single-storey brick and iron residence and free-standing annexe, constructed c. 1873 in Victorian Georgian style, in a garden setting, has cultural heritage significance for the following reasons: The place is a good example of a single-storey Victorian Georgian residence displaying simplicity and unforced harmony in form and detail, although some modifications to the fabric have compromised the purity of the stylistic expression. The place reflects the development and growth of Albany as the principal port in Western Australia in the nineteenth century, and contributes to the ongoing importance of Albany as a prominent historic town. The place has landmark value, sited at the top of a large suburban lot with associated outbuildings and complementary landscaping. The place is an example of a simple but substantial dwelling, built in the second half of the nineteenth century for John F T Hassell, with possible servant's quarters still extant, and is representative of an earlier way of life. The place is significant for service as a private hospital from 1912 to 1922, during the ownership of Dr Thomas Robinson. The place is highly valued by the local community for its associations with the early history and settlement of the Albany district, its association with the Hassell and Robinson families and Sir Claude Hotchin, and its early hospital function. While the siting of the house within a garden setting is a significant aspect of the place, the actual elements and design layout of the existing garden are of little significance.

Physical Description

Some of the notable features of this place include: • Set in quiet street, back from road with no fence • High streetscape value • Mature Oak tree – could be original settler planting • Asymmetrical façade • Hipped roof • Three chimneys, brick rendered with moulded tops • Verandah under separate roof Some obvious modifications include: • Extension at one end • The verandah is separated at one end by a glass and timber divider • Side verandah has two bay windows thought to be the original front façade of the house

History

Melville House is a private residence situated on Lot 33 Hotchin Ave. The house was built for J. F. T. Hassell in c1873. In the 1900s, it was the home of councillor T. E. Inglis until c1907. In 1911, it was opened as a nursing home and general private hospital, under Nurse Brown, and a road constructed to the house. Melville House was later owned by Dr Thomas Robinson and his wife and still used as a hospital. In July 1946, Robinson died while still living at Melville House. After his death, the Albany council considered Melville House as the site of the new Albany hospital. This proposal did not proceed, and Melville House became the principal home of the famous Western Australian art patron Sir Claude Hotchin. The street was also then named after Hotchin. In 1950 Hotchin applied for approval for subdivision of the property which was granted. Over the next 20 or more years Hotchin acquired paintings and sculptures which he then gifted to country halls, schools and hospitals all over the State. He also established an art prize. All told, Sir Claude gave away more than 2000 items. Hotchin lived at Melville House until his death in the 1980s. Melville House has been used as a surgery and clinic as well as a residence.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High Authenticity: High/Moderate

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update