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Former Steam Laundry

Location 6 Paton Street,, CAMPERDOWN VIC 3260 - Property No B5080 File Number B5080 Level State

[1/1] B5080 Steam Laundry

Statement of Significance

The Steam Laundry, designed by WP Knights and built in 1920 is historically and architecturally important at the State level.
The Steam Laundry is architecturally significant as an intriguing and rare adaptation of a domestic style and scale to an industrial building. The steam laundry operation and residence was successfully incorporated into a structure that is also an interesting Arts & Crafts/Californian Bungalow design. Knights was able to achieve a scale and form of the building that complements the largely residential streetscape. The Laundry is also one of the most interesting and creative works of noted Camperdown architect Perry Knights.
The Steam Laundry is historically important as a surviving, substantially intact, purpose-built steam laundry and residential complex. The operation successfully serviced the commercial laundry needs of the Camperdown district for many years and its mid-century incorporation of the dry cleaning process emphasises its commercial viability over a long period. While its significance has been somewhat reduced by the removal of its boiler and laundry equipment, the distinctive appearance of the structure, combined with its well known industrial history, contribute to its landmark qualities.
Classified:07/02/2000