Eras of Architecture in Australia

As a builder, you might choose to specialise in a particular era of Australian architecture or even help bring to life the historic charm of an older style in a new home.

We break down some of the most popular and influential architectural styles in Australia.

Australia may be a relatively young country from a global perspective, but we have seen the rise and fall of many architectural styles in the past 200-odd years. Some of these eras are still very much present in today’s day and age, with many modern dwellings attempting to capture the historic beauty of the very first homes long since gone.

Victorian era (1840-1890)

Most Victorian-period homes are over 100 years old and were first built during Queen Victoria’s reign. In this period, we saw a shift towards more ornate and decorative styles, including Victorian Gothic, Italianate style, and Second Empire. These dwellings exhibited a simple elegance which has made them a timeless and still very desired look in modern times.

What is the architectural style of Victorian era homes?

• Slate or corrugated iron roofs
• Verandas made from cast iron lacework and Intricate stucco facades
• Double hung arched timber windows

Boom style era (1875-1890)

Image by Michael DG Bailey http://flickr.com/photos/21925182@N02/11537271934 via Wikimedia Commons

Attributed to the economic boom that followed the gold rush in the late 19th century, this style of housing is still very common in Melbourne.

What is the architectural style of Boom style era homes?

• Intricate brickwork patterns featuring many different coloured bricks
• Highly decorated parapets and facades
• Arched, double-hung windows with elaborate decorations

Federation era (1895-1915)

Carrying on the intricate styles of the boom era, these lavish homes came about during Australia’s independence as a nation. This era is characterized by a combination of traditional and decorative styles, with an emphasis on Australian motifs and materials.

What is the architectural style of Federation era homes?

• High ceilings with decorated plasterwork
• Asymmetrical design with multi-faceted roofs
• Elaborate verandas that integrate into the roof of the dwelling

Edwardian era (1910-1915)

Image by Sardaka https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Sardaka via Wikimedia Commons

These dwellings come across as dialled-down equivalents of Federation Era homes and were built during the reign of King Edward.

What is the architectural style of Edwardian era homes?

• Often built using weatherboards or red brick
• Corrugated iron or slate roofs
• Façade is often decorated to emphasize the apex of roof

Californian bungalow era (1920-1930)

Image by Bidgee https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Bidgee via Wikimedia Commons

Inspired by America, this style arrived during the 1920s and featured lower-pitched roofs and often thick columns beneath the veranda.

What is the architectural style of Californian bungalow homes?

• Interior walls featuring stained plywood
• Double hung windows with leadlight
• Veranda held up by large, thick columns

Art deco style era (1930-1950)

Image by Matt https://www.flickr.com/photos/52846207@N04/ via Wikimedia Commons

This particular era was very forward-thinking for its time and indeed to this day, remains quite striking.

What is the architectural style of art deco era homes?

• Hipped roofs and the use of terracotta tiles
• Brick or weatherboard walls to create a solid appearance
• Symmetric and imposing designs or rounded edges

Contemporary era (1950-1960)

This is perhaps one era in which we are increasingly seeing a return to in line with the popular minimalist and modernist styles.

What is the architectural style of contemporary era homes?

• Low ceiling and open plan interiors
• Low pitched roofs with corrugated iron or steel decking
• Big windows often extending across the entire front of the dwelling

Brick veneer era (1960-1980)

This era saw a step back from the previous two eras into a more conservative and economical time.

What is the architectural style of brick veneer homes?

• Very plain interior with timber floors
• Sliding timber framed windows
• Cream, white, or red brick finishes

Understanding the different eras of Australian architectural style

Looking back at Australia’s rich architectural heritage allows architects, designers, and builders to create buildings that reflect the country’s history and cultural influences while also incorporating modern design trends and techniques. By studying the different styles and influences of each period, architects can create buildings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, which contributes to the rich architectural history of Australia.

This article has been updated and republished on 8th May 2023.