Historical information

The dwelling is representative of the development of the Georgian Revival style in the 1920s and 30s and its popularity amongst the upper-middle classes as a result of the work of William Hardy Wilson and Professor Leslie Wilkinson. It is of importance as a fine and largely intact designer/builder example of the Georgian Revival style, with American Georgian Revival influences. The dwelling embodies the principal characteristics of the style. American Georgian Revival influences are noted in the deep eaves with modillions, central broken pediment, brick quoins and presentation of the central porch. The garden wall, with arched opening, in the side setback appears to be an early or original landscape feature, based on the comparable brick
work detail construction with that of the house. Considering this, it is the only early landscape feature extant which assists in providing some understanding of the original landscape layout of the property. (Criteria D and E) (Boroondara Planning Scheme)

Physical description

Colour photographic positive of 264 Cotham Road, Kew. The residence was constructed in 1931 for the Howitt family. 264 Cotham Road, Kew (HO813) is an individually listed building of significance under Amendment C294 of the Boroondara Planning Scheme.