49-51-53 View Terrace — Streets of East Freo

ARCHITECTURE

No 51 View Terrace, Penshurst, is a substantial, two-storey, late Victorian dwelling constructed of limestone masonry with extensive, hip roofed verandahs on the north-east corner and timber skillions at the rear. It exhibits the exuberance of WA’s Gold Boom era and sits prominently on Richmond Hill, being visible from various vantage points along the Swan River including Cypress Hill in North Fremantle and Monument Hill in Mosman Park.

It has a particularly striking design with two multi-faceted bays at right angles to one another on the north-east corner, around which is wrapped a two storey verandah. The internal planning of the building is also unusual because of the arrangement of these bays. It has a hipped corrugated iron roof. The verandah is supported on timber posts with post brackets. A simple frieze spans between posts on the ground floor. A vertical timber balustrade spans between the posts on the first floor. Pairs of doors and hopper lights are located on both floors on the north east corner. The doors are flanked by double hung sash windows. The walls are limestone with brick quoins. The roofscape features stout brick chimneys.

Penshurst was built on a large open site. This substantial lot has since been subdivided into three lots with residences built either side of the place. Three palm trees flank the sides of the house. Access to the garage is via Penshurst Street.

HISTORY

1941 Tenders invited to recondition, carpotol or other, 5.000 sq. feet floor space in residence at 49 View-terrace. East Fremantle for Oliver W. Strang. M1078. 165 Albany-rd., Vic. Park. (reference)
1953 Situations Vacant. Wanted builder or carpenter for repairing verandahs. Contract or wages. Apply Flat 3. 49 View Terrace. East Fremantle. (reference)