St Joseph’s Parish Malvern

Architect: A.A. Fritsch 1908

South | S10

Building Description

Built in 1908, St Joseph’s Church Malvern is a landmark local building. Designed by architect Augustus Andrew (AA) Fritsch and built by the Swanson Brothers Builders, the church is known for its unusual Romanesque style and distinctive red brick and cement or ‘blood and bandage’ exterior.

The church’s distinctive brick pattern was created by Fritsch who designed a number of ecclesiastic and public buildings throughout Victoria, including the Hawthorn, Elwood, Middle Park and Camberwell Catholic parishes, along with Newman College in conjunction with Walter Burley Griffin.

Notable features of St Joseph’s include the two side towers with domes on the facade, and a statue of the Universal Church in the large central niche. The impressive stained glass windows were designed and installed by renowned English-born stained glass artist William Montgomery.

What's On

The Church is open from 8.30am-4pm Monday to Friday. Visitors are free to go and have a look around. The grotto is in the accompanying grounds and visitors use these grounds to either pray or simply to have lunch.

Location