Commercial Bank of Australia Building, Townsville facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Commercial Bank of Australia Building |
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Commercial Bank of Australia Building, 1997
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| Location | 205-207 Flinders Street, Townsville CBD, City of Townsville, Queensland, Australia |
| Design period | 1870s - 1890s (late 19th century) |
| Built | c. 1897 |
| Architect | James Percy Owen Cowlishaw |
| Official name: Atinee Building | |
| Type | state heritage (built) |
| Designated | 21 October 1992 |
| Reference no. | 600900 |
| Significant period | 1890s (fabric) c. 1897- c. 1938 (historical use by CBC) |
| Builders | J C Harrison & Sons |
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The Commercial Bank of Australia Building is a very old and important building in Townsville, Queensland, Australia. It used to be a bank! It was designed by James Percy Owen Cowlishaw and built around 1897 by J C Harrison & Sons. Today, it's also known as the Atinee Building. Because of its history and unique look, it was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1992.
Contents
What is the History of the Commercial Bank of Australia Building?
This building was finished around 1897. It was the second home for the Commercial Bank of Australia in Townsville. The bank used this building for 41 years.
Later, from 1955, a restaurant called Relatino operated here for 23 years. More recently, the building became famous as a Back Packers Hostel. In March 2016, parts of the building were used by Zambrero, a Mexican fast food restaurant, and a Latin dancing studio.
What Does the Commercial Bank of Australia Building Look Like?
This building has three floors and was built in a style popular around the 1890s. It has large, shady verandahs on the top two levels. These verandahs stretch out over the footpath. They are decorated with fancy cast-iron balustrades (railings) and friezes (decorative bands), along with timber fretwork (carved wood designs).
The ground floor, which used to be a shop, has been updated inside. However, the upper floors still look much like they did originally. The building is made of brick and was designed to be comfortable in the warm, tropical weather. It has a parapet (a low wall at the edge of the roof) and a pediment (a triangular shape) in the middle at the very top. Even though it needs some care, the building is still in good shape and looks mostly as it always has.
Why is the Commercial Bank of Australia Building Important?
The building was listed on the Queensland Heritage Register on 21 October 1992. This means it's recognized as a special historical place. Here's why it's important:
How Does it Show Queensland's History?
The impressive style of this building shows how important the Commercial Bank of Australia was. It played a big part in the economic growth of the Townsville region in the early 1900s.
Is its Design Unique?
Yes, this building has an unusual design for a commercial building in the Townsville area. Its unique look makes it a special part of the streetscape on Flinders Street.
What Kind of Building is it a Good Example Of?
It's a great example of a commercial building from its time. It features wide verandahs and beautiful decorations made from timber and cast iron.
Does it Have Aesthetic Significance?
The building is considered beautiful and adds to the look of Flinders Street. Its unusual design makes it stand out in the Townsville region.
