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Facade Of Former Bank Of New South Wales

Location University of Melbourne,, PARKVILLE VIC 3052 - Property No B0164 File Number B0164 Level State

Statement of Significance

The Administration Annexe, University of Melbourne, was erected in 1932 and incorporated within this structure is the facade of the old Bank of New South Wales, originally situated in Collins Street. The Bank was erected in 1858-59 by Cornish and Burgoyne to the competition winning design of Joseph Reed. The carving was executed by Charles Summers. The two storey sandstone facade is composed of a two tier colonnade flanked by solid projecting wings.
This is the oldest surviving bank head office in Victoria and one of the few high quality commercial buildings surviving from the 1850's. It is an important example of Joseph Reed's early work. The elaborate facade in the conservative classical style is modelled on Sausarino's Library in Venice and reflects the rich gold rush era. The overall composition of solid and void, the profusion of free standing columns, and the variety of finely executed decoration is of great significance.
The upper cornice is showing signs of decay, the facade requires careful restoration.
Classified: 17/07/1958
see also: B3478