HOUSE GROUP

The timber picket fences of consistent height provide an attractive setting for the cottages. The simple fence to no. 85 may be early and thus a contributory element.

The modern front fences and non-original alterations and additions to the cottages are not significant.

How it is significant?
The row of cottages at 85-91 Lord Street, Richmond is of local historic and architectural/aesthetic significance to the City of Yarra.

Why it is significant?
Historically, the row of cottages illustrates the second major period of development in Richmond, that of the Edwardian period. In particular they illustrate the prevalence of speculatively built developments, mainly comprising terraces and rows of duplex and detached houses built either to identical design or with a certain amount of pleasing variety in details and forms. (Criterion A)

Architecturally, the cottages demonstrate a transition between typical Victorian and Edwardian-era features. While their gable-fronted form, decorative trusswork, timber verandah posts and the flattened cast-iron frieze and bracket patterns are typical of the Edwardian era, the rendered and corniced chimneys, ornamentation of the brick end walls (vermiculation and classical scrolled console), and double-hung windows with sidelights were all common in the 19th century. (Criterion D)

Aesthetically, while simple in form, the cottages are distinguished by the cast-iron verandah friezes that are delicate variations on a theme, the carefully detailed ashlar-board cladding, the pointed-arched lights to the front doors, and the unusually high level of intactness of the verandah details. (Criterion E)

Group

Residential buildings (private)

Category

House