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CURRIE AND RICHARDS WAREHOUSE

Location 79-81 FRANKLIN STREET AND 3 STEWART STREET MELBOURNE, MELBOURNE CITY File Number 603493 Level Registered

[1/2] CURRIE AND RICHARDS WAREHOUSE [2/2] 1 currie & richards warehouse

Statement of Significance

What is significant?
The Currie and Richards Warehouse was erected in 1875 as a three storey brick workshop/warehouse for Alfred Shaw and Co., tinware manufacturers. The building features a stucco facade, and is regularly fenestrated with a rusticated ground floor, prominent string courses and Tuscan cornice entablature. The architect is unknown. The 1869 date on the parapet refers to the foundation of Currie and Richards' business, not the date of the building' erection.

How is it significant?
The Currie and Richards Warehouse is of architectural and historical significance to the State of Victoria.

Why is it significant?
The Currie and Richards Warehouse is of architectural significance as a fine example of a 19th century warehouse in Melbourne and a distinctive example of the Renaissance Revival style applied to such a building. The clear derivation from the Italian palazzi mode, evident in the Tuscan cornice entablature and rusticated ground floor, is a notable quality of this building. The substantial character of the building, with its restrained but dignified facade, and choice of architectural style reflect the growth of Melbourne as a prosperous city in the aftermath of the gold rushes.

The Currie and Richards Warehouse is of historical significance as a reminder of the character of the 19th century city, in which residential, commercial and industrial uses existed in close proximity. Although the building no longer performs an industrial function, the side lane hoist arrangement remains as tangible evidence of its original purpose. There are now few remaining traces of central Melbourne' industrial past, giving the warehouse added importance.