Period property and homes you might find in the UK will be completely different from those you find in the US, for example. Australia is no different. We have our own rich history in period architecture just waiting to be explored.

We have recently touched on the different styles and types of period home which can be found across Australia in our article ‘What You Need to Know About Period Homes’. In this guide to Australian period homes, however, we will probe a little deeper into some of the country’s most popular styles. Let’s take a closer look.

Colonial (Before 1840)

Colonial homes are those which are heavily inspired by the Georgian era and Regency style. Of all the period homes you’ll find across Australia, these are perhaps the most heavily inspired by those you’d find in England’s prime. Hence the name – colonial.

Queenslander (1840 – 1940)

As the name may suggest, the Queenslander home style is one which originated towards the east of Australia. These homes weren’t perhaps as widespread as those you would find inspired by the Victorian, Edwardian or even Art Deco eras, but it’s not uncommon to see people still trying to make the most of these types of property.

Victorian (1840 – 1900)

Victorian homes are easy to spot across Australia, though they are perhaps not always so easy to group under one umbrella. The Victorian era in England was a colossal period of change in industrial and social values. Naturally, home and properties changed, too. Australia soon followed suit, and Victorian-era homes can be easily split into early, middle and late styles.

Boom (1875 – 1890)

Midway through the Victorian era were homes emerging along the lines of what is referred to as the ‘Boom’ style. These homes do sometimes cross over with late Victorian looks and styles, though were built to represent wealth, first and foremost.

Art Nouveau / Arts and Crafts (1900 – 1915)

The Arts and Crafts era of construction and architecture took place at the head of the 20th century. You’ll still find plenty of these home and property styles dotted across the south-east, and they are often effortless to spot amongst older styles and fascia.

Federation (1900 – 1915)

Federation homes are famous for perhaps being the first truly ‘Australian’ homes. The early 20th century was a period where Australia was starting to emerge with its own identity, away from the colonial ideals of centuries past. Therefore, Federation homes are perhaps most sought-after by people looking to seize upon the earliest unique property available nationwide.

Edwardian (1910 – 1915)

Edwardian properties are, naturally, those which came to prominence during the reign of the UK’s King Edward VII. However, these homes started popping up in Australia following the monarch’s death. These homes may often be seen as slightly less opulent takes on the Federation ideal.

American / Californian Bungalow (1910 – 1930)

As the name might well suggest, this period of Australian housing is very much inspired by the US. These laid-back, one-floor properties are unassuming and straightforward, with a focus on welcoming you into the garden or yard to the rear wherever possible.

Art Deco (1930 – 1950)

The Art Deco movement was enormous for over two decades. It impacted on art and fashion alike, as well as architecture. In Australia, Art Deco housing focuses on shapes and symmetry, while keeping things nice and practical.

Ranch (1990 -)

Ranch housing is exceptionally modern, at least compared to the Australian period style homes we’ve looked at thus far. Once again, this is a period style inspired by US standards, keeping everything on one level.

Conclusion

This is just the tip of the iceberg! There are many different Australian period homes to choose from. There is perhaps more to the history of Australian property design and construction than many people give credit for.

If you are considering how to renovate a contemporary home, or are looking into Federation home renovation, you should consider approaching an expert for extension and renovation support.

Period Extensions & Designs are experts in Australian period design. Call our team today for a free consultation on 03 9882 5255, or email us if you have a specific query which we may be able to help with.

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