Local Government
Perth
Region
Metropolitan
613-619 Hay St Perth
also fronts onto Barrack St Also part of Central Perth Precinct P15846 Also part of Barrack Street Precinct P10903
Perth
Metropolitan
Constructed from 1896 to 1897, Constructed from 1985
| Type | Status | Date | Documents |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heritage Area | Adopted | 05 Aug 2009 | |
| Heritage List | Adopted | 20 Dec 1985 | |
| State Register | Registered | 06 Sep 1996 | HCWebsite.Listing+ListingDocument, HCWebsite.Listing+ListingDocument |
| Type | Status | Date | Documents |
|---|---|---|---|
| (no listings) |
| Type | Status | Date | Grading/Management | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category | ||||
| Classified by the National Trust | Classified | 07 Aug 1978 | ||
| Perth Draft Inventory 99-01 | YES | 31 Dec 1999 | ||
| Register of the National Estate | Permanent | 28 Sep 1982 | ||
| Municipal Inventory | Adopted | 13 Mar 2001 | Category 1 | |
| Local Heritage Survey | Adopted | 28 Mar 2023 | Category 1 | |
| Local Heritage Survey | Completed\Draft | Category 1 | ||
The Place is of aesthetic significance because it is a recognised landmark in the City of Perth. The place is of aesthetic significance as an example of a commercial building constructed during the period of economic affluence and increased development that followed the gold boom. The place is a fine example of Federation Free Classical style. The place is of historic significance because it reflects the expansion and development of commerce and trade in the City of Perth in the early years of the twentieth century. The place is a representative example of a commercial building in Perth during the period of development and consolidation following the gold boom. The place is of aesthetic significance as an example of the work of architecture William Wolf. The place is of historic significance for associations with Sir Charles McNess.
External - Three storey building forming an arcade between Hay and Barrack Streets with decorative pediments over the entrances. Original verandah has been replaced by an awning. Shop fronts modified from the original. The facade features decorative pilasters with stucco work and emphatic entablature; arched windows and decorative parapet and triangular pediments. Internal - No internal access - shop fitouts all modern.
The land on which this building is located was owned by successful local businessman Charles McNess who erected five galvanised iron shops on this site from which he operated his business as an ironmonger and tinsmith. In 1896 and engaged architect William Wolf to design a substantial commercial premises for this prominent site. The original design was for two stories but an additional floor was added at McNess's request. Builder's Cohen and Nicol were engaged to construct the building and at the opening ceremony by the Lord Mayor of Perth Alexander Forrest, it was noted that the total cost of the building and land was £30,000. The arcade in the building was one of the first formal arcades in Perth and on opening had 17 tenancies on the ground floor. The basement included a dining room and billiard hall. Charles McNess made a significant contribution to Western Australia as a philanthropist and was knighted for his services. The McNess Royal Arcade has been subject to alterations and additions since construction to suit new uses and occupants. The most significant in 1985 when a false ceiling was inserted in the arcade.
Medium integrity. Medium level of authenticity. Parts of the building fabric at ground floor and in the basement of McNess Royal Arcade have been altered, and have a low degree of authenticity. However, with a few exceptions most of the building fabric on the upper floors is intact.
Good
| Name | Type | Year From | Year To |
|---|---|---|---|
| William Wolf | Architect | - | - |
| Ref ID No | Ref Name | Ref Source | Ref Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heritage Studio | 2017 | ||
| 720.9941 | WES Western Towns and Buildings (1979), pp 268 by Pitt Morrison, M and White, J (Ed) | 1979 | |
| R 720.9941 | HER Heritage of Western Australia, (1989) pp 43 by Australian Heritage Commission Hocking | 1989 | |
| 1.36/611 | COP Heritage Places File | ||
| Perth - CM321798/17 | Hay Street Mall Heritage Area Study |
| Library Id | Title | Medium | Year Of Publication |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11790 | Conservation plan for McNess Royal Arcade 611 - 619 Hay Street Perth Western Australia | Heritage Study {Cons'n Plan} | 2011 |
Individual Building or Group
| Epoch | General | Specific |
|---|---|---|
| Present Use | COMMERCIAL | Shop\Retail Store {single} |
| Original Use | COMMERCIAL | Shop\Retail Store {single} |
| Style |
|---|
| Federation Free Classical |
| Type | General | Specific |
|---|---|---|
| Roof | METAL | Corrugated Iron |
| Wall | BRICK | Common Brick |
| General | Specific |
|---|---|
| SOCIAL & CIVIC ACTIVITIES | Community services & utilities |
| OCCUPATIONS | Commercial & service industries |
This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.