Building

Statement of Significance

The place has historic significance as a building dating from the first decade of the 1900s. It is representative of the changing character and growth of West Perth, being a former residential property that has undergone a change of use to commercial/professional offices. The loss of verandahs ad a non-original roofline reduces its authenticity ad aesthetic value; however the place contributes to the streetscape due to its scale and street setback, ad acts as a reminder of the residential character of this part of Murray Street.

Physical Description

Single storey building with steps leading to the front verandah.

History

West Perth developed as suburban residential area in the late 1890s. From its inception it had the characteristics of a quality neighbourhood. Proximity to the city centre and Kings Park (then known as Perth Park), and the elevated location provided healthy site drainage as well as cooling breezes and views over the city and hills. The area had social status already associated with addresses in nearby Mount Street and access to the city's piped water system. The area was subdivided into large residential lots for development and proceed accordingly.
The homes built in West Perth from the early 1900s included prestigious mansions built in prominent locations and smaller working-class cottages in the narrower back streets and towards the northern end of the area adjacent to the railway. The west end of Murray Street was originally Hooper Street and extended only from Thomas Street to Outram Street. The Post Office Directory shows that the house at No. 3 (remaining today as No. 701 Murray) was first listed in 1911. The rest of the street on that side had been constructed by 1900.In the late 1960s the street alignments were adjusted and by the last 1970s, Murray Street extended from Thomas Street all the way through Hooper and Clive Streets to connect with its earlier termination at Havelock Street (hence the slight bend in the road between Colin and Havelock Streets.) This changed Hooper Street from a residential street into more of a thoroughfare connecting the CBD to West Perth and Subiaco. This area has been further transformed from residential to commercial use since the 1980s. Aerial photos show little change in the roof since 1948, but this is not original. The house was originally a single room-width with a verandah on three sides, and steps to the street at the front door, which is off centre to the east. The Metropolitan Water Supply Survey plan (1953) shows the earlier footprint. The house has lost its side verandahs, only retaining the front. The new roof overhangs with eaves on each side. At 2022 the place is used for professional offices.

Integrity/Authenticity

Low level of integrity.
Low level of authenticity.

Condition

Fair

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.