Perth has a diverse range of housing styles and character home eras that reflect the city’s development over time. Let’s learn about some of the main architectural eras found in Perth and the distinguishing features of each era.
Colonial (1829 – 1860)
Perth’s earliest homes were built during the colonial period and were largely influenced by British architectural styles. Colonial homes typically feature simple, functional designs and local materials such as limestone and timber, steeply pitched roofs, low-slung verandahs, decorative chimneys and a central hallway leading to rooms on either side. They were often constructed from locally sourced limestone or brick and were designed to keep occupants cool in the hot Perth climate.
Victorian (1837 – 1901)
The Victorian era was marked by a desire to emulate the architecture of England’s Queen Victoria. Victorian homes are characterised by their symmetrical facades, slate roofs, high ceilings, large verandahs, decorative gables and ornate detailing, including lacework, iron columns, and turrets.
Federation (1890 – 1915)
Federation homes are one of the most iconic and popular character styles in Australia and was marked by a desire to create a national identity in architecture. Federation era homes can be identified by their distinct Queen Anne or Arts and Crafts architectural styles and homes often feature wrap-around verandahs, turrets, and bay windows. Other distinguishing features are pitched roofs and ornate detailing such as fretwork and stained glass windows. Federation homes are also often painted in bright, bold colours and often feature large front gardens with picket fences and gates.
Californian Bungalow (1910 – 1930)
Californian bungalows are typically single-story homes with wide verandas, low-pitched roofs, and exposed rafters. These homes often have a central living area with a fireplace and are known for their spacious bedrooms and charming features such as leadlight windows, timber floors and brick chimneys. While not unique to Perth, the Californian Bungalow was a popular style during the interwar period.
Interwar (1915 – 1940)
Interwar homes were built during the period between World War I and World War II which saw a shift away from the ornate detailing of the Federation era towards simpler, more functional home designs. Homes from this era often feature flat roofs, rendered brickwork, and Art Deco details such as curved walls and geometric motifs but these are typically more subtle than in pure Art Deco homes. The interiors of these homes are often more spacious and open-plan than their Federation predecessors. While exteriors were made from a wider variety of materials, including brick, timber, and weatherboard.
Art Deco (1920 – 1939)
Art deco homes are known for their distinctive geometric shapes and bold, stylised ornamentation. Often found in affluent suburbs Art Deco homes are less common in Perth than in some other Australian cities, but there are still some examples to be found. These homes are characterised by their use of bold geometric shapes, streamlined forms, and decorative elements such as sunburst motifs, stepped detailing and a focus on symmetry. They are typically homes with flat roofs, curved walls, rounded corners, rendered brickwork or stucco and decorative features such as wrought iron balconies and sculptural reliefs.
Post-War (1945 – 1960)
After World War II, Perth experienced a boom in housing construction as returning servicemen and their families sought affordable homes. Post-war homes are often small and modest in size, with simple brick or weatherboard exteriors and basic, functional interiors. These homes were often built quickly without some of the decorative details of earlier eras.
Mid-Century Modern (1950 – 1960)
Mid-Century Modern homes are characterised by clean lines, open floor plans, and large windows that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. These homes often feature flat or gently sloping roofs, exposed timber beams, and a focus on natural materials such as wood and stone. They were designed to be functional and practical with an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living.
Perth is a city that is rich in character homes from a range of eras, each with its own unique charm and history. Whether you are looking for a Federation era home with intricate details, or a Mid-Century Modern home with exposed timber beams and indoor / outdoor living there is a suburb in Perth that is sure to have the perfect character home for you, offering the perfect blend of charm and modern convenience.
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