Historical information

The numerous subdivision plans in the Kew Historical Society's collection represent working documents, ranging from the initial sketches made in planning a subdivision to printed plans on which auctioneers or agents listed the prices for which individual lots were sold. In a number of cases, the reverse of a subdivision plan in the collection includes a photograph of a house that was also for sale by the agent.

Significance

Subdivision plans are historically important documents used as evidence of the growth of suburbs in Australia. They frequently provide information about when the land was sold on which a built structure was subsequently constructed as well as evidence relating to surveyors and real estate and financial agents. These photographs provide significant heritage information relating house design and decoration, fencing and household gardens.

Physical description

When 29 Uvadale Grove, Kew was offered for sale it was described as: ‘Kew. Fine locality, 3 minutes Cotham Road. Splendidly built 6 roomed Brick Villa. Rooms 17 x 14, 16 x 13, &c. Beautifully fitted throughout. Land 70 x 134 to ROW.’ The price was advertised as being £1,400. The house exhibits key features of Federation architecture such as the gabled roof with a facing of half-timber and stucco. The veranda has a curved corrugated iron roof supported by timber pillars and fretwork. The slate roof with terra cotta ridging and finials marks a transition to the more common use of Marseilles tiles in Federation architecture.