Rechabite Hall

Statement of Significance

AESTHETIC VALUE* Rechabite Hall is a distinctive example of the Inter-War Free Classical style typical of Edwin Summerhayes' later city buildings. Both internally and externally, the materials, scale and form of Rechabite Hall demonstrate a competent use of classical elements and detailing, exhibiting the skill of the designer. The façade, entry foyer and hall are particularly fine examples of 1920's Free Classical architecture. (Criterion 1.1) Rechabite Hall contains several fine internal architectural features, including the mosaic tile floor and tile dado of the entry hall, the well preserved main jarrah staircase with its fine balustrades, and the upper foyer and fine vaulted ceiling of the main hall, which are extensively lined with pressed metal embossed with decorative patterns, of high artistic quality. (Criterion 1.1) Rechabite Hall is a key component of the eastern streetscape of William Street between Roe and Newcastle Street. (Criterion 1.3) Rechabite Hall is a local landmark, enhanced by its central location within the William Street streetscape, located at the northern gateway to the city centre. The façade of Rechabite Hall differs markedly from its neighbours and its scale, proportions and detailing are more typical of the larger buildings south of the railway. (Criterion 1.3) 11. 2. HISTORIC VALUE The construction of Rechabite Hall in 1924, as part of the remarkably coherent William Street streetscape, expresses the confidence of the Northbridge area, and clearly shows the development that occurred north of the city following the 1890s goldrush and the building of the Horseshoe Bridge over the railway in 1902. Rechabite Hall is one of the few buildings of classically inspired architecture to be erected north of the railway line. (Criterion 2.1) Rechabite Hall was purpose built for the Independent Order of Rechabites, one of 15 friendly societies that have been registered in Western Australia, which had a large following during the early decades of the 20th century and continues with smaller numbers. (Criterion 2.2) As a provider of mixed-use facilities housing a variety of commercial uses and having notable ethnic diversity, Rechabite Hall is indicative of the development of Northbridge during the 20th century, and the character for which Northbridge is recognised today. (Criterion 2.2) Rechabite Hall is the last of the major works designed by Edwin Summerhayes, an influential architect of the goldrush period in Coolgardie, and in early 20th century Perth. Summerhayes was responsible for the design of various commercial premises and residences in Coolgardie and Perth including the Coolgardie Town Hall (1898); the Coolgardie Mining Exhibition Building (1898) and Kobeelya, Katanning (1902). (Criterion 2.3) SOCIAL VALUE As an old time dance hall in the 1920s and 1930s, Rechabite Hall represents an early beginning to the entertainment function that characterises Northbridge in the late 20th and early 21st century. Its function as a hall, providing performance and entertainment space, is also specifically relevant to the wider precinct which has operated as a 'Cultural Centre' since the turn of the 20th century. (Criterion 4.1) Rechabite Hall has played a significant role in the social life of Northbridge, as a venue for balls, dance exhibitions, church services, conferences, annual meetings, school productions and an election polling station. (Criterion 4.1) As a purpose built venue, Rechabite Hall represents the prosperity and impact of Friendly Societies on the Western Australian community during the early decades of the 20th century. (Criterion 4.1) Rechabite Hall is one of only a few remaining major buildings in Western Australia by well-known architect, Edwin Summerhayes. (Criterion 5.1) Rechabite Hall is the only remaining Friendly Society building of four contemporaries that existed in the Cultural Centre vicinity, including the Temperance Hall, Ancient Order of Oddfellows and the Ancient Order of Foresters building, all of which exhibited a formal street façade and large ornate hall or assembly area. Most also incorporated retail outlets at the street frontage. The Ancient Order of Foresters Building on Francis Street was also designed by Summerhayes. (Criterion 5.1) 12. 2 REPRESENTATIVENESS Rechabite Hall is representative of the predominance of temperance and friendly societies in the 1920s and 1930s in Western Australia and the impact such societies had on the Western Australian community at the time.

History

Assessment 2002

Uses

Historic Themes

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