Westbourne Terrace

The single-fronted, single-storey Italianate dwellings are constructed of Hawthorn bricks with cream brick dressings. The transverse gable roof is unbroken by party walls, though the verandahs have wing walls. The most distinctive features of the terrace row is its brick parapet and panelled polychrome brick chimneys. Over the central two dwellings (nos. 24-26) is a semi-circular pediment defined by moulded cream bricks with a cement render tympanum emblazoned with 'Westbourne Terrace' in raised lettering. Number 22 has the highest level of intactness, retaining its cast-iron frieze.

The laneway to the west of and behind the terrace row is paved with bluestone pitches and provides an appropriate nineteenth century setting.

Later alterations, including new windows and doors, rear extensions and overpainting of brickwork, are not significant.

How is it significant?
'Westbourne Terrace' is of local aesthetic significance to the City of Stonnington.

Why is it significant?
Aesthetically for the distinctive parapet design of the terrace, which displays a high level of creativity despite the modest means of these working-class houses. It is an early example of a parapet-fronted terrace for Stonnington with a balustrade constructed of moulded cream bricks that mimic balusters in profile. At the centre is a semi-circular pediment bearing the terrace's name. Another effective, though inexpensive, detail is that of the chimneys. They are of Hawthorn brick with a corbelled top resting on cream brick brackets, and flat rendered panels with scalloped corners on each side, giving a very distinctive appearance. (Criterion E)

Group

Residential buildings (private)

Category

Terrace