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Royal Society Of Victoria

Location 9 Victoria Street,, MELBOURNE VIC 3000 - Property No B0827 File Number B0827 Level State

[1/1] b827 Royal Society

Statement of Significance

Incorporating the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Caretaker's Cottage.
Statement of Significance: The Royal Society was founded in 1859 and the present two storey brick structure erected in several stages.
The original meeting hall was completed in 1858. This was added to in 1867- 69 and 1880. The architects were Reed and Barnes. In 1953-54 substantial additions were made to the south side using the original facade treatment. The caretaker's cottage dates from 1869. The buildings are surrounded by lawns and trees.
The Royal Society has occupied this building since 1859 and has several important historical associations with early Victoria. The simple free-standing edifice exhibiting four almost identical facades is an important example of the conservative classical style and typifies Reed's classical treatments. The hall and library are notable spaces. The caretaker's cottage is an interesting and superbly intact example of its type. The buildings are enhanced by the simple and attractive landscape.
The original slate roof has been replaced by a modern material and external escape stairs have been fitted to one facade, but these alterations do not affect the integrity of the building. The caretaker's cottage is superbly intact but requires careful restoration.
Classified: 'Local' 25/05/1961
Revised: 03/08/1998