THE HISTORY AND HERITAGE OF SEMI-DETACHED DWELLINGS IN NEW SOUTH WALES 1788-1980

Abstract

The semi-detached house (colloquially known as a semi) is a common, yet ordinary dwelling type in New South Wales. Buildings containing a pair of dwellings attached by a party wall have generally been overlooked by Australian architectural historians, and semis are poorly represented in the statutory heritage registers within New South Wales. Many semis which are listed appear to have heritage significance arising only from their aesthetics – their resemblance to two attached Victorian terraced houses. This study seeks to show that semis are a dwelling type which is distinct from both terraced houses and detached dwellings. It traces the development of the semi from its roots as a rural double cottage in Britain to its place within the colonial dwelling hierarchy. By analysing the social, economic and political factors which have influenced the development of housing in New South Wales, the study shows how the semi became the ideal vehicle for the speculative builders who provided private rental housing for lower middle class tenants in the suburbs and towns of the state after Federation. The form fell from favour during the interwar period, but during the latter part of the twentieth century semis once again became a pragmatic use of residential land, and a popular dwelling type. The role of architects in this development is examined, and the way in which the garden city movement facilitated the transition of the semi down the social scale into working class public housing. The attitudes towards semis and terraced houses between the wars are compared, with new evidence provided for why no new terraces were constructed in New South Wales after the First World War. The post-Second World War regulatory framework, including rent control and de facto subdivision, is shown to have transformed the stock of semis from being respectable investments for widows and spinsters into a way for lower middle class tenants to participate in the Great Australian Dream of home ownership. Based on the evidence of the social and historical factors underpinning the development of semis in New South Wales, the study challenges the view that semis have no heritage or cultural value other than some limited aesthetic value. An assessment of significance gives rise to a discussion about how the community and heritage professionals perceive the heritage value of modest, suburban buildings. The vexed question of whether semis are worthy of conservation is considered, as well as the threats posed by unsympathetic alterations and additions. While change is inevitable, it is hoped that if the history and heritage of their semis is better understood, owners may make more appropriate choices when implementing those changes.