Atkins Residence, Northbridge

Statement of Significance

The place is of aesthetic significance as an example of a residential building dating from period around the turn of the century. The increasing affluence of the community following the gold boom is reflected in the increased use of decoration. The place is of aesthetic significance because it contributes to the visual quality of its location. The place is of historic significance because it reflects the way of life of the wealthier residents of Perth in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. The significance of the place is increased because it remains substantially intact. The place is a representative example of a residential property in Perth dating from the late nineteenth to early twentieth century. The place represents the changing character of the Perth community form the post gold rush settlement period to the period of settlement by various ethnic communities, to the present.

Physical Description

Two storey building, originally residential, with bottom storey partially below ground level. Hipped roof with tall chimney. Prominent projecting gable to street front with simple half-timbered effect. Asymmetrical facade with bay to one end. Verandah with timber posts and highly decorative cast-iron balustrade.

History

In the early years of the Swan River colony the area to the north of Perth (now known as Northbridge) was low lying and swampy and was therefore settled more slowly than the better land closer to the river. It was also further from the river port and the main means of transport. Northbridge is an inner suburban area, named because it is just north of Perth across the railway bridge. It was approved as a suburb name in 1982. In 1854 some of the swampy land to the north of Perth was drained producing some fertile land for farming and later subdivision. The land was subdivided into allotments circa 1860. Land in the area was taken up by discharged soldiers, artisans and small landholders. The area at this period was characterised by small cottages and businesses. In 1881, they railway from Fremantle to Guildford was opened and became the main transport route. From that period commerce and trade tended to focus around this area with smaller commercial enterprises and manufacturing to the north. It was less fashionable to live north of the railway line, however the area was close to the city and during the 1890's and early 1900's was substantially redeveloped with further subdivision of lots and mixed residential and commercial development. A number of trade and community organisations had their origins in the area at this time. Over the years the population of the area changed as people relocated to suburban areas of the city. As a result, Northbridge became the home for successive migrant communities. For example, communities including Greek, Italian, Chinese and more recently Vietnamese migrants have settled here as property remained relatively cheap and had the advantage of being close to the city. These communities have over the years given this area a distinctive character, generally recycling the existing buildings rather than redeveloping the area. William Atkins, contractor was listed in 1905 (No 78) in the Post Office directories. The house was called Reste. William was involved in the Dowerin to Merredin Railway. During the 1920s to 1950s many people were listed as living at the property. It is unknown when the house became known as Eleni House.

Integrity/Authenticity

Medium level of integrity. Medium level of authenticity as it is largely as originally constructed with detail intact.

Condition

Fair

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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