Australia has a vast landscape and a history that is packed with characters from around the world. Not only has this influenced the way we live today, it’s also moulded the houses we live in. From Italianate houses to Victorian terraces, there are very noticeable periods in Australian architecture, and they all have a role to play in making our cities more varied and enjoyable. In fact, new luxury homes in Perth could very well be influenced by older home styles.
Turn of (last) century
Of course, the main reason each of these styles exists is because they were superceded by the next best thing. Nobody set out to build a Federation house in the early 1900s. This unique Aussie blend of American and European styles was simply what people built at the time. Now it’s an iconic style that is easily recognised by most people who have even a modest interest home building.
Each phase in Australian architecture has come about as a form of progression. For example, Edwardian homes managed to retain some of the best features of Queen Anne or Federation houses before them, while reducing cost and making taking a more relaxed approach to exterior presentation.
Reaching the modern era
Art Deco homes were popular between the two world wars and the style is largely attributed to a an Exposition in Paris in 1925. This style brought with it lavish yet subdued stylings and the houses were generally built on large blocks with great locations – showing Australia’s return to prosperity and bringing with it the uptick in luxury homes.
However, it was the contemporary homes of the 1950s that introduced some of the features you’re much more likely to see in a modern custom home design. Gone were the days of decorative leadlight windows and heavy wooden panelling. Instead, Australians embraced large windows, sunny spaces and open plan living areas.
The brick veneer homes of the 60s and 70s were a good exercise in budget control, but have a very plain appearance when compared to previous architectural periods. Builders in WA churned these out in droves, which led to many subdivisions looking similar to each other.
Yearning for some change, it’s easy to see how those wanting to build their own home could take inspiration from all of these styles and the many others that feature in Australia’s history. At Exclusive Residence, Perth’s luxury home builders, we feel we’ve achieved an impressive blend of modern practicality, boom-time luxury, individual character and contemporary grace.
