Monday 10 August 2009

Federation style


The Federation style of domestic architecture was popular during the first decade of the 20th century. The style, based on the Edwardian style of English house, was adapted to suit Australian conditions, tastes and availability of building materials. This post is to complement one made by Brattcat at the end of last week.


There are a number of suburbs in Sydney that contain well-preserved examples of Federation style houses. These images were made on Saturday in the inner-west suburb of Haberfield. Other suburbs of note are Rozelle and especially Strathfield. Many of these houses have been renovated and updated and the style diluted over the years. Tomorrow, some of the architecutral detail that make this such an appealing home-grown style.

13 comments:

Lowell said...

I like them a lot, even if they appear a bit ornate.

Joan Elizabeth said...

Nice collection. I love those types of houses ... and they are so Sydney.

Lois said...

Very pretty style! I love the details.

Pietro Brosio said...

Very informative post with nice images. Really interesting houses.

James said...

Very interesting I don't think I've seen that style before.

Jim said...

These are beautiful Julie. I love federation houses.

Ann said...

I'm in a Federation semi but unfortunately those lovely turned posts above the verandah are no longer there, nor is the name plate, although I know the house was called "Omeo" (next door's semi was called Mitta Mitta). I've still got coloured glass in the bedroom window, although its plain, not lead light, original ceiling roses and an arch in the hallway with some ornate plasterwork. Although its certainly not as built, I'd never get rid of those features.

VP said...

Beautiful houses, love the verandahs and the grouped windows with the colored glasses.

eamon@ewmphotography said...

Yes, I can see the adaptations, particularly the porch areas. Less need for those here, except for rain cover and most would consider that a waste of space. I envy you living in a climate suited to much more outdoor time, Julie. Looking fwd to that detail tomorrow.

Hilda said...

Not a style I see here in Manila. Very pretty, especially the details over the porch.

brattcat said...

Thank you for posting these, Julie. I can see similarities between the Federation style in Sydney and the Victorian and Queen Anne here in Brattleboro, particular in the window, roof, and siding detail. We are such a curious species, so eager to see how people around the world solve their need for shelter. A post like this makes me think about the evolution of mankind, how and why we got to the place we are now. Thank you.

BlossomFlowerGirl said...

Wonderful old places, very clear shots too. Number 24 has had the pintucking re-done. If only they built houses like this today!

Stephany said...

Sorry, Julie, I got behind again. My favorite is Arts & Crafts but the Edwardian style is equally lovely. The first house is fantastic. I love the low rock wall and the garden gate. The tile roof and the arches are beautiful. Then you add the wrought iron fences...