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Former Tara

Other Name Broughton Hall Location 2 Berwick Street,, CAMBERWELL VIC 3124 - Property No B0572 File Number B0572 Level State

[1/1] B0572 Broughton Hall

Statement of Significance

Broughton Hall, originally known as Tara, was constructed in c.1880 for Sir John O'Shannassy retired Irish born politician and three times Under-Secretary of State for Victoria. This impressive conservative classical style mansion of unknown architectural origins has a single storey arcaded colonnade with balustraded balcony above extending around a symmetrical central block constructed of stucco rendered brick.
Broughton Hall is a noted conservative classical style mansion house in inner suburban Melbourne.
The pleasing proportions of the elaborately modelled facade and colonnade establish this building as the work of an important, yet anonymous, Melbourne architect. Sir John O'Shannassy, papal knight, devout Roman Catholic and tireless politician, played an important role in the early years of Colonial government in Victoria. The mansion reflects his status in the Victorian community in 1880. The staircase and hall panels are notable features.
Broughton Hall is now occupied as a Church of England Home for elderly citizens. The interior has been completely converted to accommodate 92 residents. Only the staircase and bas-relief panels, modelled as copies of Ghiberti's Baptistry doors at Florence, remain intact.
Classified; 30/10/1958