The Heritage Series gallery
highlights Victorian, Federation and Queensland style houses. Some broad
definitions of these styles are given below. For a more detailed account of house styles
in Australia please visit the Resources section.Victorian Period (1850 - 1900)
Best identified by the use of decorative cast-iron lace. Lace was
introduced to Australia as a feature of domestic architecture by the 1840’s. The
designs became more and more ornate and during the Victorian gold rush of 1880, cast-iron
reached extreme heights of elaboration. Native animals, birds and flowers were
successfully introduced in the intricate lace patterns. The number of dwellings decorated
with cast-iron lace in Australia is the highest in the world. The lace is regarded as a
lasting symbol of 19th century craftsmanship.
Federation Period (1901 - 1916)
A typical Federation house was a free-standing single-storeyed building
in red brick with a roof extending over a large verandah. Varied decorative chimneys,
gables, corner towers and terracotta decorations added interest to the otherwise plain
roof. Stained glass windows contributed to the charm of the house. The popularity of the
era lasted from 1890-1920.
Queensland Style
The Queensland house developed gradually to meet the demands of a
tropical climate. Built on wooden stilts, high above the ground, it is one of the most
distinctively Australian styles, superbly adapted to warm winters and hot summers. The use
of decorative cast-iron during the late 19th century with a liberal addition of
latticework, gave a distinctive character and charm to the unique vernacular architecture
of Queensland.
