William Flats

Statement of Significance

William Flats is a good example of a block of flats constructed in the post-WWII period. The building was designed by well-known architects Krantz & Sheldon who were particularly renowned for their apartment block designs. The interior of the building is not of cultural heritage significance.
Included in the Heritage List for reasons of contributing to the townscape, meeting the requirements of Clause 78.3(c) of Local Planning Scheme 3.

Physical Description

The double storey masonry block of flats is geometric in form with a vertical front element punctuated with repeat corner windows at both levels. Set back are contrasting horizontal bands forming balustrades to glazed infills above. The roof is typically Marseille clay tiles in simple hip form.

History

This section of Stirling Highway, immediately west of Stirling Road, was fully residential in the late 1940s with a mixed business on the Stirling Street corner. In 1953, a two-storey complex comprising six one-bedroom apartments was built on what was at that time Lots 4 and 5. The property was owned by Wolf Kahan, who had a tailoring business in St George's Terrace.
Before fleeing Austria during the height of Nazi oppression, Kahan was a famous tailor in Vienna, much sought after by the elite and media personalities. His shop there had the interior designed by modernist architect, Adolf Loos. Kahan’s son, Louis, went on to become a tailor, and subsequently one of Australia’s most important painters.
Occupiers when the place was completed were Mrs. Elizabeth McIntyre, Iris Reynold, William Bell, Frederick Clyne, Louisa Fickling and Ian Marshall. Wolf Kahan owned William Flats through the 1950s.
In 1968, the 'William' Syndicate, of McCarthy and Poole-Johnson were the owners. It is not known where the name 'William' originated.

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.