Address Spring Street, Melbourne 

Awards 1937 R.V.I.A. Street Architecture Medal

Presentation by the Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Cr Edward Campbell, at a general Meeting of the RVIA at Kelvin Hall on 30/3/38, to Mr. H. L. Waugh representing Leighton Irwin who was interstate and Mr Roy K. Stevenson.

Jury Alec S. Eggleston [President of RVIA], Percy Everett [Chief Architect of PWD], J. S. MacDonald [Director of NGV], W. R. Dean [Art Inspector Education Department], Geo. R. King, Marcus W. Martin, Charles E. Serpell, Edward F. Billson, E. Keith Mackay, W. O. McCutcheon, John F. D. Scarborough.

References RVIA Journal, Nov-Dec 1937, p205, RVIA Journal, Jan-Feb 1938, pp219-220

Description of project The Scandinavian-inspired classicism building was erected on the site of the old 'Model School' building designed around 1847-1957by a former R.V.I.A. president (the late Arthur E. Johnson, F.R.I.B.A.).

The design suggests a modernised version of classicism, where abstracted classical elements and forms are combined with regional building materials such as local bricks and roof forms determined by local climate. Attention is largely drawn to the Teutonic elegance of the building's temple front with its square sectional columns, the tall entry doors, and the stripped-back interior lobby.

Jury's comments The Jury considered the design as an unusual example of street architecture as the building faces streets on all four elevations, and each façade with successful use of coloured brickwork. The design, which is not highly decorated, demonstrates a clear sense of dignity and a controlled manner. The austerity with the details also contributes to the formality of the building. The entrance portico illustrates a significant and notable departure from classic proportions and a tendency towards a modern columnar treatment. Appropriate attention was also given to the fenestration of the wings on each side of the central mass.