Why I love period homes
I’m a huge fan of period homes – I absolutely adore them. When I was growing up, my family homes consisted of a double-story Victorian on Brunswick St in Fitzroy and a single front brick Victorian in Carlton. We then moved to a double front weatherboard in Abbotsford. Each of these homes was completely unique, with plenty of charm – and just as much work required. However, there was something deeply lovely about each home having its own character with additions and modifications made by each owner over time, including my own family.
Every time I see a dilapidated old home as I drive around Melbourne, I grieve for it, as I know the home’s fate. It’ll be demolished so a huge home can go up in its place, or replaced with two townhouses – maybe even three or four. I get it. Change is needed over time, and as more people move to our beautiful city, residential homes are in demand to accommodate our growing population. However, I still have a moment of remembrance for the beautiful home that was, and the memories I imagine were made there over years gone by.
The most common period homes you’ll see in Melbourne are Victorians. These come from the Victorian Period c. 1840 – c.1890, followed by the Federation period (c. 1890 – c. 1915). This period was followed by the Inter-War period from c. 1915 – c. 1940, which ran in parallel to the Californian Bungalows (c. 1915 – 1940) and the Spanish Mission (c. 1925 – c.1939). Last, but not least, was the Art Deco designs of c. 1940 – c. 1950.
Each of these periods had its own unique style, which is instantly recognisable as you drive around our growing and changing city. Defining features include…
Victorian – divided by early, mid and late, these designs were heavily influenced by the British Empire’s Gothic architectural style. Think symmetrical layouts and facades, centrally located front doors, and the introduction of cast-iron lacework.
Federation – drawing on elements of the Victorian style, this saw Australians begin to embody more of their own culture in their residential architecture, and brought about the introduction of fretwork, which still defines many of our designs today.
Inter-War period – many more styles began to take root as architectural boundaries evolved and more personal preferences came into play.
Californian Bungalow – these are recognisable from the columns holding up the front verandah.
Spanish Mission – look for windows grouped in threes and twisted pylons covering a porch area. This style was heavily influenced by the American Spanish architectural styles.
Art Deco – defining features include curved corner windows, chimneys and a general approach that saw brick veneer cream brick with dark brown feature brickwork on external walls or under windowsills.
Next time you’re out for a drive, keep your eyes open. You may spot homes rich with their own historical heritage. Take a moment to imagine all of the families who’ve lived there and dreamt there, and what the neighbourhood would have looked like in their time. You may just stumble across your next dream home!
By Tabitha Robb