That's One Cool Cat

This smiling cat was viewed out of a sixth floor window in the Myer Bourke Street building. It came as an unexpected and pleasant surprise. I did some research and found out that it was originally an advertisement for Mazda light globes and lamps, and that the other half of the ad was painted over during renovations on the Beehive Building (92-94 Elizabeth Street). I couldn't find a date for it, but judging from the colour pallet I would guess it was painted in the 1940s or 1950s. Here is a link to a picture of what the ad looked like before it was painted over.

Love
Mosey x

Progress

The subject of 'progress' is an interesting topic, with everyone having their own opinion.

While studying my degree in archaeology we were frequently presented with the ideas of progress, preservation and conservation, and the precarious balance between these issues. 

In archaeology we are taught the harsh truth that in its nature archaeology is destruction. In order to learn and discover we must pull apart and destroy the site. This of course means that a strict code of ethics must be applied to all archaeological research, which also includes consideration for preservation and/or conservation measures. Here in Melbourne, Heritage Victoria and the National Trust have a say in the outcome of archaeological sights and historically important buildings. But as to be expected there are always many interest groups involved. 

These kinds of ethical and moral questions can be applied to older architecture, and the way in which it affects our changing urban landscape.

It is impossible and unrealistic to keep all our beautiful old buildings. If we were to try, it would hinder progress and new developments in design, building techniques and technology. As time passes our wants and needs, as well as the way we use and relate to spaces changes. Older buildings aren't always practical or usable in their original intent or purpose. Does that in a moral sense make it ok to change the building or to even demolish it? What types of buildings are worthy of keeping in tact? Who decides upon the criteria in which these buildings are subject to?

These types of questions may seem slightly absurd or petty when thinking of an unused 1940s office building, or the run down Federation style home in the street next to yours. However they are important things to consider in a holistic sense. If no one is considering these things, and we all rush out and knock down every old home or change every heritage building to the point where they are no longer recognisable, we will lose all our history and the opportunity to discover and learn about our past. 

I'm not saying we need to go to the extremes of opposing every new development, but just some thought, consideration and care needs to be applied. The two most important questions to ask are, how will this change our urban landscape, and is what will be replacing the original building or structure worthy to be put in its place?

It is these questions of progress, preservation and conservation that I ask myself when I see an old building, particularly when new development is proposed or has begun. Perhaps these are some things you can ponder as you look at the photos on this blog and when you see progress happening in your own local area.

Love

Mosey x

There was much controversy with this Collins Street site in the 1970s, as several historical buildings were demolished to make way for the Nauru House and to give it a Collins Street frontage and address. There is still mixed feelings about the way in which the space in front of the Nauru House has been used, many feeling it is an unattractive use of the space and not worthy of replacing the original buildings.

Right side details showing 'scaring' effect on the brick work as a result of the demolished building.

Details showing the resulting effects on the brickwork on the standing building. If you look closely you can see the outline of the demolished building.

Construction site on the corner of Lonsdale and Russell Streets. You can see modern additions to the older building on the left of the construction site.

Collins Street, Melbourne. You can see construction of a new building happening behind these two strong, solid historical buildings. It will be interesting to see how the skyline will change once construction has finished.

Taken from the Myer Emporium building, of the old Myer building on Lonsdale Street. This building was sold in 2009, and in its original form obviously didn't suit the needs of the new owners. This is a great example of a popular solution for some historical buildings. The facade is kept intact, however what is done with the interior is up to the owners. This photo highlights both the original front and back facade. 

Back view of the front facade of the old Lonsdale Street Myer building. You can see the way the facade is being held up while each interior levels are built up. 

Myer building cash tube system

Hello everyone,

These pictures were taken inside the Myer building in Bourke Street Melbourne, and show the original cash tube system that was in place.

It was the curved shape of the pipes along the ceiling and intricate details on the opening of the tubes that caught my eye. I work in retail myself so it is interesting to me to see an old fashioned set up like this. Modern cash tube systems are very simple and hidden away, the average person would not notice them when they walk into a shop. It is interesting how everyday things were given so much time, energy and treatment. I suppose they were trying to show their customers and staff how sophisticated and advanced their system was.

Love
Mosey x

Original cash tube system at Myer

Detail of cash tube opening

Myer Mural Hall

Myer Mural Hall

The Myer Mural Hall is located in Bourke Street, Melbourne, on the sixth level of the Myer building. The space is in the art deco style and features a large ballroom dance floor with eight incredible murals across the walls, which were painted by Napier Waller and completed in 1935. Each mural celebrates important women in the areas of opera, literature, dance, arts, fashion and history. It is these murals that take your breath away when you first walk into the Hall. 

Left mural celebrating historically important women, right mural celebrating operatic women. 

My other favourite features in the Hall were the pendant light fittings, and the P&O style staircase. 

Deco style light pendant                                                             Under view of pendant          

P&O style staircase

Love
Mosey x