Royal WA Institute for the Blind (fmr)

Statement of Significance

The building provides visual variety and interest to the Maylands townscape. The decorative embellishments are unique examples of sculptural decoration of the period. The building is familiar to most, representing strength, security, reliability and stability for the community. It is a unique example of industrial architecture from the inter-war period in WA, and is one of the few remaining significant buildings from this period. It is also one of the few remaining industrial buildings in Perth of historical value. The building is also significant for originally providing training and employment for blind and disabled people in Perth, and allowing them to achieve a sense of accomplishment in producing highly marketable products.

Physical Description

The building has a large frontage with the driveway encompassing several parking bays. A low brick wall stands either side of a central pathway enhanced by a well maintained garden. Together with flagpoles situated either side of the entrance, the overall picture exemplifies important architectural elements of modern design. The architectural features of the building are made up of symmetrical, positive forms, with the main central tower drawing attention to the entrance. An important element of 1930's architecture is a 'stepped' design; this is incorporated by porticos symmetrically placed either side of the central tower. A finial stands proud on the main tower supporting a third flagpole. This façade displays horizontal bands of vertical windows, tied together in long stretches; the two contrasting directional lines typical of the style. The building is constructed from large stone blocks, and has a paint finish producing a striking visual landmark. A horizontal band of decorative sculptured concrete encompasses the building consisting of small vertical pilasters with upright and inverted 'waves of prosperity'. The wave is one of the many Art Deco symbols, popular at the time, symbolic of the wave of prosperity that swept through Perth after the depression and before the onset of the war. The entrance is surrounded by a chevron motif, with ventilation grilles repeating this unique motif, located either side of the doors. A positive vertical form is extended by the windows above the highly decorative spandrel. Incised horizontal banding is contrasted by the vertical elements of the fountain motif. A zig-zag form is introduced to break the directional lines creating further visual interest. Pilasters are symmetrically placed either side of the doorway with the chevron motif repeated on the capitals. A typical horizontal window light is featured above the door. The decorative portal exemplifies 1930s architecture, drawing attention to the entrance of the building. The exterior design of the Institute conforms to its original inner function. The central tower not only provides a dominant form to the façade, a stylistic device popular in modern architecture, it also forms a reception area leading into the showroom. Jarrah doors embellished with chrome stripping enhance the area. Symmetrical columns repeat the fountain motif on the capitals, with adjacent wrought iron balustrading formed into the fountain symbol. Streams of natural light adorn the showroom from vertical paned windows. Ventilators are sculptured with inverted and upright wave motifs. Vertical banding applied to the cornices enhance the coffered ceiling, both details typical of the style. The far internal wall incorporates a distinct horizontal band of windows above the door leading to administration offices. Jarrah floorboards are apparent throughout the building, as are jarrah doors with bubble glass inserts. The doors are fitted with chrome handles featuring the 'stepped' design element. The main administration office accommodates a fireplace exemplifying the 1930s, with a jarrah mantlepiece providing a focal point of interest. The ceiling is divided into two sections, implying a stylised version of Edwardian design. These divisions complete with decorative cornices are finished in appropriate modern colours.

History

Founded in 1895, the Royal WA Institute and Industrial School for the Blind was established as a permanent memorial to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. The buildings occupying the increasing number of employees were initially very small and cramped, and thus in 1937 extensive additions were made to the factory, with the new Art Deco style addition officially opening on 28 July 1937. The building was opened by J. C. Willcock MLA, and the extensions were designed by C.E. Clare. Since 2001, the site has become the home of the West Australian Ballet, being renamed the WA Ballet Centre.

Condition

Good overall condition

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update