Coles
Store #1
172 Smith
Street, Collingwood
(1919; re-modelled by Harry Norris, 1930s)
April
2006 - Preservation News
The building now forms part of the massive re-development of Smith Street. Completion of the project will
result in the restoration of the façade of the Coles Store. The terms of the permit issued by the
City of Yarra state that a report by a "suitably qualified and experienced heritage architect"
must be provided and approved. The report will address the method for reconstruction, materials,
finishes and detailing for the façade of the building.
Winter
2005- Preservation News
For
some time, ADS has been involved with other community groups opposing
a massive multi-storey re-development in inner suburban Smith St., Collingwood.
If approved, it would result in the demolition of a significant building
in the Art Deco style Ğ the former Coles Store No. 1. The Coles stores
were a chain of low-price outlets across Australia, and the Smith St.
store dates from 1919.
The Coles brothers engaged prominent architect Harry Norris to preside over the design, construction and re-modelling of Coles Stores throughout Victoria, NSW and South Australia. In 1929, they sent him to the USA to study the design of retail stores, and many of the ideas from this experience were incorporated into subsequent designs. The Smith St. store was re-modelled in moderne style in the 1930s.
The re-development proposal was headed for a hearing at the local Planning Tribunal but, following massive reaction by community and heritage groups, it has been "called in" by the Planning Minister and will be reviewed by a special Review Panel. ADS will be making a submission to the Panel and is hopeful that the Coles store will be saved.
