Brennan House (fmr)

Statement of Significance

Brennan House (fmr) has historic value for its associations with the period in which Maddington was occupied by families seeking a rural lifestyle whilst continuing their professional careers in Perth. The place has historic value as a illustration of the type of residence built in the early 20th century when the Maddington area adjacent to the Canning River was subdivided for development. The place has social value as a demonstration of the type of housing built for professional men and their families in the early 20th century.

Physical Description

This Federation bungalow is located amidst a tightly packed cul-de-sac of modern developments which has greatly impacted on its setting. The original semi-rural setting has been replaced with suburban development which has altered the context of the property and the relationship of the property to the surrounding land. In terms of expression, the bungalow is quite simple with face brickwork to the entire elevation, full height timber framed sash windows either side of the timber or glazed entrance door creating a symmetrical façade. The entrance door and side lights are leaded lights with stained glass patterning to the door. The hipped roof has been reclad with red Colorbond, extending down to form the verandah canopy at a broken pitch. The canopy is supported on square timber columns and has a raised concrete deck. Above the entrance, the verandah canopy is interrupted by a gable feature with a timber sunburst detail. Three tall brick chimneys with corbelling and terracotta flues project from the roof behind the ridge line. The garden is open to the street with a paved driveway, lawns and mature trees. The house has been extended to the rear which does not impact on the street view of the original property and a large detached garage has also been constructed to the north-west of the property and can be seen from the street view.

History

John Hay Blight owned the property in 1927/28. The 1927 Post Office Directory lists Mr Blight as a railway clerk. James Gerald Brennan, an accountant, owned the property in 1946/47. He worked in the Brennan and Male accountancy firm, located in St Georges Terrace, Perth. The house was situated on a five and a quarter acre property which has since been subdivided. In the post World War Two period many people who owned land in Maddington commuted to Perth for work. As the house is situated near the river it would have been likely that it was used to irrigate the property and any crops such as citrus trees, like many other properties in the locality.

Integrity/Authenticity

Integrity: High degree: continual residential Authenticity: Moderate degree

Condition

Good

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

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Last Update