Hutchings Museum formerly Blythe's House

Statement of Significance

The place has some aesthetic value for the remaining form and detail of earlier construction form and detail. The place has historic value for its association with the Harris family who were early settlers in the Dunsborough district. The place has social value for its contribution to the community sense of place for its longevity in the streetscape.

Physical Description

A single storey house that has an elongated plan form with a simple pitched roof extended over verandahs on the three sides of the projecting bay. It presents as two different portions, the rendered projecting bay that demonstrates style elements of the Inter War period. Adjoining this portion is what appears to be a later addition clad in fibre board. The projecting bay appears to be masonry with a consistent render, with windows and doors of a mix of styles and dimensions. The verandah flooring is cement slab and brick, and the verandah roof over is supported on simple timber posts. The portion of the residence to the rear of the lot may have some elements from the earlier construction but this has not been determined. The building is located on a typical suburban site that has mature trees which obscure the residence from the street.

History

Previous research has determined that this place was built by the Harris family in the 19th Century as their residence. The builder and designer have not been determined. The Harris’s were a prominent and active local family and their property was originally much larger. The building originally extended across what is now Lots 501, 502 and 503. Following subdivision, the portion of the residence on Lot 502 has been demolished (2004‐07) and the portion on Lot 501 is all that remains. For many years after the Harris family left the place it was used by Mr. K and Mrs. Hutchings as a museum and antique shop before closing the business in the 1990s. The premises were subsequently used for a range of commercial and retail functions and is now reverted to use as a residence and has undergone alterations and additions to accommodate contemporary standards.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity Notes: The place retains a moderate degree of integrity. Authenticity Notes: The house has been substantially altered over many years and retains very little of the original fabric. It appears that only one interior wall with fireplace remains of the Harris residence, with the house having been adapted for many uses since that period of residency. Part of the residence has been demolished. Moderate Degree/Low Degree

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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