Dumas House

Statement of Significance

The place has aesthetic significance as an example of the Post-War International style of architecture detailing from the 1960's.
The place has considerable landmark value and contributes to the Perth community’s sense of place.
The tall building is located on a prominent, elevated site, is clearly visible from many points around the city and wider metropolitan area.
Its location at the western edge of the urban skyline enhances the landmark value of the place.
Significant as a rare example of the Post-War International style.
Social Significance for associations with the public service of the WA State Government.
The place was designed by architects Finn, Van Mens and Maidment who won a national competition for the development of the site, having already established a body of work as project architects of the Public Works Department of Western Australia.
The place has been associated with the State Government of Western Australia since its construction in 1966, providing office accommodation for Government departments and Ministers.

Physical Description

A thirteen storey free-standing curtain wall building. Reinforced concrete floors project beyond the window wall as horizontal hoods. Exposed black granite faced columns penetrate these hoods. Building complemented by open landscaped areas.

History

The design of this building was the winner of the Australia - wide" Public Offices Building Competition" in 1961. Five buildings were originally designed to create a government complex but only one constructed. At the time of construction Dumas House was seen as a symbol of the growth and prosperity of Western Australia. Planning of the site rose out of the 1955 Stephenson Hepburn Report and the place was the first of five multi storied buildings planned for the site. The remaining four were not built as Parliamentarians felt the other buildings would appear to dominate the landscape and traffic around the site was a problem. In 1978 Dumas House was named after Sir Russell Dumas, who was Director of Works and Buildings, Public Works Department from 1941 to 1953.The building has been the location for numerous State government departments and ministerial offices form the 1960's to the present.

Integrity/Authenticity

Medium level of integrity.
Medium level of authenticity.

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

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.