Back to search results »

Back to search page »

Terraces

Other Name Melbourne University Square Campus Location 93-109 Barry Street,, CARLTON VIC 3053 - Property No B2375 File Number B2375 Level Local

[1/5] B2375 93-95 Barry St Carlton [2/5] B2375 93-97 Barry St Carlton [3/5] B2375 99 Barry St Carlton [4/5] B2375 101-105 Barry St Carlton [5/5] B2375 107-109 Barry St Carlton

Statement of Significance

93 - 109 Barry Street, Carlton is a collection of terraces built c1860 by various designers. They are of Local significance for historical/social, and architectural reasons.
Architecturally, some of the terraces are designed in the manner of Austin & Kursteiner and related practices, especially common of Carlton and Fitzroy (notably 95 and 101). These are characterised by swag-bellied balcony panels, a criss-cross on circle iron frieze over a wooded frieze bar and unfluted columns with cushion capitals. The other houses contain some important details, including a three dimensional carved wooden rinceau frieze at 97-9, a rare cement-moulded fig ornament on nos. 103-5, and terra cotta chimney pots at nos. 107-9.
Historically, the terraces are important as a collection built within a few years of each other, in a relatively early period. They are also located on one of the few residential squares to have been developed in inner Melbourne and one that includes a number of superior design. Since all of the terraces are similar in design, (two storeyed, set back, mostly with double level verandahs), it is also relatively cohesive.
Much of this housing in the square was constructed for leading industrial and commercial figures of early Carlton. Many terraces in the square are associated with leading Carlton building contractors of last century and several have associations with prominent nineteenth century figures such as Amy Castles and Marcus Clarke. The University's first Chancellor, Sir Redmond Barry, provided the original name for the square, and the proximity of the University's main entrance provided the rationale for the square's existence.
Socially, the residential environs of this particular square have very strong associations with eminent industrial figures of early Melbourne who had flourishing factories and businesses in the area immediately south of the square. The superior residential housing around the square gained social status from its close proximity to Victoria's original centre of tertiary education.
Classified: 01/03/1999

See also B2373, 147-151 Barry Street and B2376, Group Classification, University (formerly Barry) Square.