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563-567 Glen Huntly Road

Other Name Former St. John's Presbyterian Church, now the ElstemwicklCaulfield South Uniting Location 563-567 Glen Huntly Road ELSTERNWICK, Glen Eira City Level Included in Heritage Overlay

[1/1] 563-567 Glen Huntly Rd

Statement of Significance

The former St. John's Presbyterian church complex, now the Elsternwick/Caulfield South Uniting Church, is situated at nos. 563-567 Glen Huntly Road, Elsternwick and in Foster Street. The church was designed by architects H.W. and F.B. Tompkins and construction proceeded in 1915. The complex is aesthetically and socially significant and is understood also to be scientifically important.

It is aesthetically significant (Criterion E) as a prominent complex of early twentieth century religious buildings united in purpose and choice of materials and/or architectural forms. The church is especially noteworthy as an example of the Gothic Revival Style incorporating Arts and Crafts elements in moderation but demonstrating the architects' leanings towards this mode. The Greek cross form and sloping floor are representative of the Presbyterian Church's worship traditions and the Foster Street hall (west side) is aesthetically of interest for the manner in which its facade treatment corresponds with that of the church. The complex is socially significant (Criterion G) as a long standing place of worship in the community and for the way of life which it continues to demonstrate. Finally, the Fincham organ is understood to be of scientific (technical) importance (Criterion F) whilst the association of the place with the highly successful architectural practice of H.W. and F.B. Tompkins is unique in the Municipality.