Display Centre & Wing Loong New & Used Books

Statement of Significance

The place is a component of a particularly cohesive group of buildings, especially at first floor and parapet level, which represent all of the significant characteristics of William Street Precinct. The place reflects the development boom which occurred north of the railway at the turn of the century, largely due to gold rush prosperity and the influx of migrants. The place forms part of the vibrant William Street streetscape and contributes to the community’s sense of place. The uses of the building reflect a diversity of commercial activities and occupation by ethnic groups that are identifiable characteristics of the local environment.

Physical Description

1906 Building is a two-storey commercial building currently occupied by a retail tenancy at ground level and the Australian Writers’ Guild at the upper level. The street elevation has been extensively modified at ground level, with the installation of new full height shopfront glazing. The upper level features rendered masonry divided into bays by pilasters with a long rectangular window opening in each bay. A contemporary street awning has been installed to William Street. It is likely a verandah structure once extended over the footpath. In 2010 works were undertaken for the modification and shop fitout of the existing building consisting of the construction of shelving, bench counter, awning fascia sign and a new illuminated under awning light box. In 2013, internal fitout works were undertaken to the upper floor tenancy.

History

During the 1890’s, the gold-rushes had a profound impact on the state’s economy. Commercial and residential development was rapid in all parts of the town and land became a sought-after commodity. Hutt Street (renamed William Street in 1897/98) underwent massive changes during this period with Perth Town Lot Y55, comprising the block of land on Hutt Street between Aberdeen and Francis streets, approved for subdivision in 1894. John Mews, the owner of a house and gardens on the corner with Francis Street from 1884, acquired Lot Y55 in 1895. The land was sub-divided into nine separate lots, with the two corner lots comprising the largest land areas, and subsequently developed with shops and houses. A building licence for Lot 6 of Y55 was issued in 1906 to J. J. Holmes and in 1914 postal records show the building occupied by William H. Jones, furniture dealer. The issue of further building licences in 1930, 1952, 1967, 1970 and 1979 indicate that alterations to the place occurred throughout the twentieth century and include a proposal for use as a coffee lounge and billiards room at the place in 1979.

Integrity/Authenticity

High level of integrity. Medium level of authenticity.

Condition

Fair

Uses

Creation Date

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