HAMPTON GROVE PRECINCT

The Hampton Grove Precinct, comprising 34-46 Glyndon Road; 1-5 & 2-4 Hampton Grove; 123 & 128-132 Wattle Valley Road, Camberwell, is significant. The precinct comprises a relatively small but notable collection of fine 1920s and 1930s dwellings, set within a characteristic interwar landscape. Of significance is the combination of curved and straight streets, nature strips, street trees, garden settings, original front fences, which are all typical of the interwar suburban landscape. This is complemented by the uniform use of architectural materials, giving the precinct a consistent character.

How is it significant?

The precinct is of local historic, architectural and aesthetic significance to the City of Boroondara.

Why is it significant?

The Hampton Grove precinct illustrated the interwar development of the 1920s and 1930s, two important growth periods in Camberwell's history. The building condition ensured a minimum value of 750 pounds of the newly erected houses. This contributed to a consistent streetscape and the architectural quality visible along Wattle Valley Road and Glyndon Road.

The interwar landscape of Glyndon Road, Wattle Valley Road and Hampton Grove exemplify the importance of the fixed-rail public transport to Camberwell's interwar suburban growth and development. The proximity to the electric tram along Riversdale Road (1916) as well as Hartwell station (1909) was an important factor in the growth of the precinct and surrounds. The intact interwar landscape also exemplifies the 'Garden Suburb' ideal, which is characteristic of Camberwell. (Criterion A)

The precinct is highly representative of architectural and suburban development during the interwar era of the 1920s and 1930s. The precinct contains a notable collection of house styles of the period, with an emphasis on the Old English architectural style, and some examples of Arts and Crafts and Californian bungalows, as well as the Moderne style. The large detached houses are complemented by the characteristic garden settings, examples of original front fences, mature street trees and nature strips. (Criterion D)

The precinct is of aesthetic significance as a collection of architecturally notable 1920s and 1930s dwellings, as well as the intact interwar suburban landscape. The fine examples of the Old English architectural style are complemented by examples of the Arts and Crafts and Moderne style as well as more representative examples of Californian Bungalows. The uniform use of materials, such as terra cotta tiled roofs and clinker brick, examples of original fences, and garden settings all enhance the streetscape.

The Individually Significant house at 44 Glyndon Road has its own aesthetic significance. It is a grand example of the picturesque Old English style. With multiple front facing gables, clinker brick, half timbering, terracotta shingles, leadlight windows and decorative brickwork, the asymmetry and charming quality of the style is clearly represented. (Criterion E)

Group

Residential buildings (private)

Category

House