The rich history of Australian architecture can make house-hunting a fascinating and rewarding experience if you love to step inside homes of bygone eras.
A basic understanding of this nation’s architectural history will help guide you towards your ideal home and provide a better idea of a property’s actual value.
Homes with a strong, well-recognised architectural heritage tend to maintain their value even when markets flatten. This is especially true for Federation homes in NSW and Victoria, Adelaide’s Queen Anne properties and the classic Queenslander.
Here’s a snapshot of styles that grace our suburbs:
Old Colonial (1788-1860) – The few buildings that remain are likely to be heritage-listed, which can be restrictive if you want to make improvements. This period saw the creation of Colonial Georgian, Regency and Grecian styles. These homes used the first imported roofing material – corrugated iron – which has become a cultural icon.
Queenslander (1840-Present) – Sitting on stilts with sweeping verandahs, this design is arguably the most recognisable representation of Australian architecture. The Queenslander is an all-wood structure that features large double doors opening to verandahs, and louvre windows to promote airflow. Roofing is corrugated iron.
Victorian (1840-1901) – Designs changed slowly over this 60-year period. These houses offer an asymmetrical design with a central front door leading to a hallway that splits the home. Weatherboard was popular for smaller houses, while bluestone, sandstone and red brick were used for larger properties depending on location. Cast-iron lacework, bullnose verandas and timber fretwork were introduced over decades.
Federation (1901-1914) – The name speaks to the federation of Australian states in 1901. These homes were essentially the Edwardian style constructed in Britain at the time. Motifs of iconic flora and fauna, such as emus, kangaroos and waratahs, became fashionable. Stained glass – a sign of national wealth – is common.
Californian Bungalow (1915-1940) – More affordable than most Federation homes, these single-storey properties are immediately recognisable by columns on the front veranda. In the early days, they were made of darker brick. In the 1930s, owners embraced a lighter red brick with neutral paints.
Art Deco (1940-50) – Also known as Waterfall, these homes became the height of fashion for a decade and are now highly sought-after. They often have the appearance of an ocean liner with its stepped chimneys, sweeping curves of brickwork and bay windows.
Modern (1950-present) – Our choice has widened with several less well-known architectural styles. These include the triple-fronted brick veneer home that is common in our suburbs. The 80s saw the emergence of the “Ranch”, which kept homes to a single storey but increased the floor space.
This article is provided for general information only and does not take into account the specific needs, objectives or circumstances of the reader. Before acting on any information, you should consider whether it is appropriate for your personal circumstances, carry out your own research and seek professional advice.