Tasma Terrace

Architect: Dunton and Hearnden 1887, Charles Webb 1878

City of Melbourne | C25

Building Description

State Government plans in the 1970s to replace the terrace with a massive 40-storey office block were opposed by the Trust in its longest campaign yet. The campaign to save Tasma Terrace, the Windsor Hotel and other buildings led to the first legislation of its kind in Australia in 1972, with the passing of the Government Buildings Advisory Council Act. In a momentous decision the Government Buildings Advisory Council recommended that the Trust’s proposal to the government be adopted, namely that Tasma Terrace should not only be preserved but vested to the Trust for use as their headquarters. The Terrace exhibits many fine Victorian interior features to appreciate, including heavily modelled cornices, high ceilings and sweeping arches. The Trust undertook a more elaborate restoration for the ground levels of numbers 4 and 2 to illustrate how these rooms would have appeared originally. Samples of wallpaper were removed and the original wood-graining, varnishing and paintwork revealed by careful scraping. Redecoration of these areas evolved as closely as possible according to the materials and styles of the original.

What's On

Tasma Terrace will be open for self-guided viewing, with volunteers on hand throughout to answer questions. The gift shop will also be open and various photos and information about the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) will be on display.

Location