Back to search results »

Back to search page »

Roseview

Location 407 High Street,, GOLDEN SQUARE VIC 3555 - Property No B7201 File Number B7201 Level Regional

[1/2] B7201 Roseview [2/2] B7201 Roseview

Statement of Significance

What is significant? Roseview was designed by Godfrey Eathorne and constructed in 1939. It is one of the few Streamline Moderne houses in the Central Goldfields region, and was one of the earliest constructed in the Bendigo region. It is an outstanding example of this style of housing. It resembles an ocean liner, and reflects the emphasis on the streamlining of methods of transportation. It utilizes both flat and curved surfaces and has little external ornamentation. The use of materials such as rounded glass windows and metal window and door frames reflects an innovative approach to construction consistent with the style.
Roseview was constructed on a large scale, with large and spacious rooms. It reflects the prominent social status and wealth of the original owner, together with the desire for a building in 'the latest' style which was sure to attract attention and prominence in the region. It has been maintained largely in original condition.
How is it significant? The house is significant for aesthetic/architectural, historic, social, reasons at a Regional level.
Why is it significant? Roseview is an excellent, intact example of the Streamline Moderne style of architecture. The style was more typically used for commercial properties. The house demonstrates the introduction of this style to the region of Central Victoria. Although a number of houses in this style were constructed in Melbourne, there are very few examples in regional Victoria. In other parts of the world, houses such as this were seen as representative of a shift in design from a more ornate Art Deco style to the simpler forms and less expensive materials of Streamline Moderne design. At the time of construction, Roseview was seen as a highly radical design and would have aroused strong feelings in a conservative regional centre.
The property is associated with prominent local architect Godfrey Eathorne and can be considered his most significant domestic building. The design used many of the characteristics of Streamline Moderne style, including curved corners, rounded sections for the bedroom and lounge, use of modern materials such as steel windows and rounded glass, a lack of external ornamentation, a low-hipped roof giving the appearance of a flat roof, and the use of internal materials such as terrazzo and vitrolite.
Sited on a large block, Roseview is enhanced by an extensive garden, which assists in the retention of extensive ties with the area and its residents. The design represents a move away from the more traditional building designs in the city of Bendigo. The design of the house, with two large rounded sections, has major aesthetic value.
Classified: 07/04/2003