To date, only two known archaeological assessments have been undertaken at Kirribilli House. In 1987, Edward Higginbotham conducted an archaeological inspection of the subfloor space of Kirribilli House ahead of proposed alterations to the flooring. As floorboards were to be removed, the opportunity was taken to inspect the subfloor area of the hallway and augment the historical information presented in the 1985 Conservation Analysis and Draft Conservation Policy by Clive Lucas Stapleton & Partners
(Figure 4‑21).
A black and white picture of Kirribilli House floorboards in rows panelling across the floor.
Figure 4‑21: General view of hallway following floorboard removal, looking east. The former cellar structure is at left of frame (Source: Higginbotham, 1987:6)
After the floorboards in the hallway had been removed, Higginbotham noted the footings of a partition wall visible in the western end of the hallway. The partition wall was constructed of dry-pressed bricks and cement mortar, consistent with the 1921 dating in historical documents (Figure 4‑22).
A close up, black and white picture of Kirribilli House floorboards
Figure 4‑22: Footings of a dry-pressed partition wall at the western end of the hallway (Source: Higginbotham, 1987:6)
The removal of this wall exposed a timber-framed construction and lath and plaster wall. This wall
is consistent with the 1957 alterations (Higginbotham, 1987:2).
A black and white picture of Kirribilli House floorboards in rows panelling from beneath the walls.
Figure 4‑23: View of cellar, looking northwest. Original joists are at far left and right, with newer (narrower) joists over the cellar (Source: Higginbotham, 1987:7)
A black and white picture of Kirribilli House floorboards in rows panelling across the floor.
Figure 4‑24: Entrance hallway, looking north. Original joists in foreground with cellar at extreme left (Source: (Higginbotham, 1987:8)
In relation to the cellar and the room above (now the entry powder room), the subfloor space also showed that the cellar had been partially infilled. On this fill were dry-pressed brick piers, bonded with cement mortar, ostensibly to support the wall between the hall and the entry powder room. This wall was constructed with cinder blocks and cement mortar. Although the room was converted to a powder room in 1921, the cinder block wall evidences the extensive alterations of 1957 (Higginbotham, 1987:3).
Of the archaeological evidence within the cellar, Higginbotham also notes:
The configuration of this room… indicates that the original front wall of the house has been removed in the cellar and room above and a dry-pressed brick wall, bonded with cement mortar, constructed in front of it. A concrete joist or beam supports the original front wall above the ground floor room. The floor over the cellar is a concrete slab.
Part 5.0 - Kirribilli House and Garden Heritage Management Plan 2025–2030 - Significance assessment | Zoe
(Higginbotham, 1987:3)
After inspecting the entrance hallway, Higginbotham noted the presence of the original joists,
but no evidence of the original staircase. He notes that the reconfiguration of the cellar and the room above likely removed any such evidence, however opined that the cellar was probably reached by steps beneath the original staircase. Based on the available physical evidence, he therefore concluded that the only logical location for the original staircase was the room above the cellar (Figure 4‑24) (Higginbotham, 1987:3).
No artefactual material was noted in the subfloor space, apart from some building debris, including sandstone chips. However, Higginbotham notes that should underfloor deposits be removed at any time in the future, these deposits will have to be examined further to determine the presence of artefactual material (Higginbotham, 1987:4). This removal and examination should be undertaken by a qualified archaeologist.
In relation to the archaeological potential of the grounds, an archaeological assessment was undertaken in 2010 by Casey & Lowe Pty Ltd as part of Design 5’s draft HMP and was included
as Appendix J in GML’s 2016 HMP (now included in Appendix L). That assessment has been reviewed as part of this report.
As indicated in the historical context, the land now comprising Kirribilli House was once part of what was once called “Wotonga” and is now known as Admiralty House (see Section 4.3.1.1 above and Appendix B, Volume 2). A review of historical plans shows no structures from this phase of the site’s history located within the study area.
A review of early maps and plans shows few other structures outside of the house that still survive.
A map from 1892 show the following features (Figure 4‑25):
An underground tank or reservoir in the lawns/gardens northeast of the house
Outbuildings to the west of the main house
Bathing pavilion and boat house on the harbour’s edge to the east of the main house.
A picture of a Kirribilli House map drawing, outlining the residences outbuildings, tank and bathing pavilion and boat house
Figure 4‑25: Detail of Metropolitan Water Sewerage & Drainage Board map from 1892 showing features surrounding Kirribilli House (Source: Stanton Library, LH REF MF 299/1, Image #MF2990001)
The outbuildings are likely beneath the western extensions to the main house constructed in 1957. Given the covered walkway from the western elevation of the house to the outbuildings, they were likely buildings that were frequently used, such as an external kitchen, servant’s quarters, and washhouse. Historical sources indicate that from 1878-1879, stables and gardens were located on a separate block opposite Kirribilli House to the north, on land purchased by Lawry family.
The sea pool and jetty were constructed as part of the original house, c.1856 (Clive Lucas Stapleton & Partners Pty Ltd, 1986:44). These are now in ruins along the shore of the harbour.
The rectangular tank, interpreted by Casey and Lowe as either an underground tank or fishpond,
is no longer in the landscape. Archival photographs show a greenhouse in the approximate location
of the “tank”; however, based on a review of archival plans, this feature appears to be a later structure, possibly dating from the 1950s/1960s (Figure 4‑26).
A picture of where the previous green house was located on the Kirribilli House grounds.
Figure 4‑26: Greenhouse/summer house northeast of main house, undated (Source: Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet)
4.4.1 Management of Unexpected Finds
This process chiefly applies to archaeological deposits. However, the process also applies
to unexpected finds of built heritage elements uncovered during renovations or other works across the site, such as original ceilings, flooring, walls, fireplaces, hearths and similar.
In the event of uncovering any unexpected item or archaeological deposit, the following procedure must be followed Figure 4‑27.Figure 4‑27
A picture of a flow chart outlining the process for managing unexpected items.
Figure 4‑27: Unexpected finds procedure
4.4.2 Summary of Archaeological Potential
Based on his inspection of the subfloor space, Higginbotham recommended that:
The underfloor deposits should be sampled or excavated archaeologically if they are to be removed or extensively disturbed
The cellar should be more thoroughly inspected for evidence of its original access in the event of the concrete slab floor being removed (either wholly or partially).
It is understood that neither of these recommendations have yet been required to be activated. Accordingly, they should remain as general recommendations to protect archaeological deposits beneath Kirribilli House.
The 2010 archaeological assessment concluded that the subfloor areas of Kirribilli House have the potential to retain structural evidence relating to the building’s original layout. It also notes the limited potential for subfloor deposits (Casey & Lowe, 2010:17). As with Higginbotham, Casey & Lowe recommended that any works to the subfloor should be guided by archaeological investigations
by a qualified archaeologist.
In relation to the grounds, Casey & Lowe concluded that archaeological potential was restricted to the “tank” feature and any brick cistern (a common feature on houses of that time) that may have been attached to the original house. It was recommended further that any ground disturbance works in the vicinity of the tank structure at the north-east of the house should also be guided by archaeological investigations by a qualified archaeologist.
The current assessment identifies that there is potential for archaeology in the western area of the site relating to the former outbuildings. There is potential for maritime archaeology of the seabed is likely which would require further assessments. It is to be noted that the foreshore land is owned by Transport for NSW and may require permission for any future investigation.
Additionally, sandstone outcrops covered by the garden could contain Indigenous archaeology such
as engravings and grinding grooves and there may be modifications on the foreshore.
5.0 Significance assessment
5.1 Natural Heritage Assessment
5.1.1 Discussion
The land on which Kirribilli House and garden sits has been substantially modified and a significant amount of native vegetation has been removed. This process was initiated with the construction
of Kirribilli House in 1856 and (refer to Appendix A) extended by subsequent owners and tenants, particularly with the ground modifications in 1957. The dramatic sandstone cliffs at the eastern edge that is viewed from the water and the large outcrop through the central part of the site is a vestige of the pre-European Landscape.
The current garden has large area of lawn and a mixture of native and exotic plants. There is only some native, remnant vegetation and the area is not known to have high-quality habitat for fauna. Kirribilli House therefore does not meet the natural heritage criteria under the EPBC Act. It is important to note that Kirribilli Point is part of the broader Sydney Harbour landscape and has values associated with that significance.
The surviving local indigenous vegetation includes Port Jackson fig (Ficus rubiginosa). A specimen remains in along Kirribilli Avenue and the eastern corner of the site. Other surviving species include the Coastal Banksia (Banksia integrifolia) and sweet pittosporum (Pittosporum undulatum).
5.2 Indigenous Heritage Assessment
Previous investigations have identified a low potential for Indigenous sites to be present within the bounds of Kirribilli House and Gardens. This is due to the fact that the construction of the house required excavation into bedrock and the subsequent landscaping and vegetation modification would have removed or disturbed the skeletal soils and Indigenous vegetation that was previously at this location. However, the site inspection undertaken for the HMP and consultation with Indigenous representatives identified that there is potential for the sandstone outcrops currently covered by the landscaped garden to contain cultural modifications, such as grinding grooves and engravings, if any were made in this area in the past. The presence or absence could only be determined by investigation should these outcrops be exposed during future works. Similarly, evidence of past cultural modification could be present in the foreshore area at the base of the escarpment by the water, which would also require further investigation to determine presence or absence. Finally, it was also noted that in addition to the possibility of extant tangible values in the form of sites, which may or may not be present,
the location is part of a larger cultural landscape that still holds intangible cultural values.
5.3 Heritage Context
5.3.1 Preamble
The CHL listing separately lists Kirribilli House and Garden. It is AECOM’s view that the listing originates from a historical practice and the site would benefit from one heritage listing in future.
Sections 5.3.2-5.3.3 have been extracted from the Commonwealth Heritage List entries for ‘Kirribilli House’ and ‘Kirribilli House Garden & Grounds.’[1]
5.3.2 Kirribilli House
5.3.2.1 Summary Statement of Significance
Kirribilli House, dating from the 1850s, is historically highly significant. Since 1957 it has been the residence of Australian Prime Minister when visiting Sydney and has provided accommodation for visiting overseas guests of the Commonwealth. Secondly, the house and grounds help to reflect the lifestyle of prominent Sydney residents of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and the house was one of the earliest substantial houses built on this part of Sydney Harbour. Kirribilli House is also associated with a significant public campaign in 1920 to protect harbourside open space from development. (Criterion A.4) (Themes: 7.4 Federating Australia, 7.6 Administering Australia, 8.12 Living in and around Australian homes, 8.13 Living in cities and suburbs)
Kirribilli House is associated with Australian Prime Ministers since 1957, including Messrs Menzies, Holt, Gorton, McMahon, Whitlam, Fraser, Hawke, Keating and Howard. It also has associations with a host of overseas heads of state and other dignitaries. (Criterion H. 1)
With its traceried bargeboards and steep gabled roofs, the house reflects some of the main characteristics of Victorian Rustic Gothic style. It is also important as an example of a wealthy Sydney harbourside home of the late nineteenth century, and while it has been altered in many ways it retains a number of original internal and external features. Original and early fabric, internally and externally, contributes to the place’s values. (Criterion D.2)
Kirribilli House also has rarity value in being one of relatively few houses of this style to retain its harbourside setting. (Criterion B.2)
The Gothic styled house and the (separately nominated) redeveloped Victorian era garden have a harmonious visual relationship which is strengthened by the harbour views available from the site. (Criterion E.1)
Kirribilli House is well known to the community, both through general awareness of its official roles, and through occasional open days which have given the public opportunities to visit the property. It is consequently of social significance both to Sydneysiders and to the wider Australian community. (Criterion G.1)
5.3.2.2 Criterion A – Processes
Kirribilli House, dating from the 1850s, is historically highly significant. Since 1957 it has been the residence of Australian Prime Ministers when visiting Sydney and has provided accommodation for visiting overseas guests of the Commonwealth. Secondly, the house and grounds help to reflect the lifestyle of prominent Sydney residents of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and the house was one of the earliest substantial houses built on this part of Sydney Harbour. Kirribilli House is also associated with a significant public campaign in 1`920 to protect harbourside open space from development.
5.3.2.2.1 Attributes
The fabric and form of the house.
5.3.2.3 Criterion B – Rarity
Kirribilli House also has rarity value in being one of relatively few houses of this style to retain its harbourside setting.
5.3.2.3.1 Attributes
The house, its curtilage and relationship to the harbour.
5.3.2.4 Criterion D – Characteristic Values
With its traceried bargeboards and steep gabled roofs, the house reflects some of the main characteristics of Victorian Rustic Gothic style. It is also important as an example of a wealthy Sydney harbourside home of the late nineteenth century, and while it has been altered in many ways it retains a number of original internal and external features. Original and early fabric, internally and externally, contributes to the place’s values.
5.3.2.4.1 Attributes
The building’s form, its external styling and details and its early and original fabric.
5.3.2.5 Criterion E – Aesthetic Characteristics
The Gothic styled house and the redeveloped Victorian era garden have an harmonious visual relationship which is strengthened by the harbour views available from the site
5.3.2.5.1 Attributes
The architectural appearance of the building, its landscape setting and relationship to the harbour.
5.3.2.6 Criterion G – Social Value
Kirribilli House is well known to the community, both through general awareness of its official roles, and through occasional open days which have given the public opportunities to visit the property. It is consequently of social significance both to Sydneysiders and to the wider Australian community.
5.3.2.6.1 Attributes
The house in its garden setting, plus the occasional public open days
5.3.2.7 Criterion H – Significant People
Kirribilli House is associated with Australian Prime Ministers since 1957, including Messrs Menzies, Holt, Gorton, McMahon, Whitlam, Fraser, Hawke, Keating and Howard. It also has associations with a host of overseas heads of state and other dignitaries.
5.3.2.7.1 Attributes
The whole of the building, both internally and externally.
5.3.2.8 History
The origins of Kirribilli House date back to the 1850s, when in 1854 Sydney merchant Adolf Frederick Feez bought the land for 200 pounds. The house, one of the earliest substantial houses erected in Kirribilli, was built by 1858 when the property was purchased by Esther Hughes for 3000 pounds. In 1871 Mrs Hughes gave the property to her daughter Esther, whose husband James Taylor was the Commissary-General of Ordinance in Sydney. Various changes were made to the house by the Taylors and by the 1880s it had virtually doubled in size; the changes were in sympathy with the original Victorian Gothic styling. The house helps to reflect the lifestyle of wealthy Sydney residents in the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century. Following the death of Mrs Taylor, her son Tom Lawry inherited the property who had it for some time before a sequence of other owners had the place.
In 1919 Sydney solicitor A.W. Allen bought the property and in early 1920 proposed a five-lot subdivision. Public reaction was swift and, led by high profile individuals like Dr Mary Booth OBE, Major General Hon Sir Granville Ryrie KCMG, and Sydney Smith, a campaign was launched to save open space at this point on the harbour. As a result, the Commonwealth Government decided to resume the property. More additions were made, and during the 1920s Kirribilli House was used in conjunction with Admiralty House as the Governor General’s residence (although for much of the year Kirribilli House was occupied just by the vice-regal staff). The property was then leased to individuals from 1930 until 1953.
In 1956 the Commonwealth decided to use Kirribilli as the residence of the Prime Minister when visiting Sydney and as accommodation for overseas guests of the Commonwealth. Substantial restoration works (including additions) were carried out in 1957 under the guidance of architects Fowell, Mansfield and Maclurcan, and the garden was redesigned by Professor E.G. Waterhouse. In November of that year the house received its first overseas guest, the Prime Minister of Japan. Kirribilli House has provided Sydney accommodation for Australian Prime Ministers since 1957, including Sir Robert Menzies, Harold Holt, Sir John Gorton, Sir William McMahon, Gough Whitlam, Malcolm Fraser, Bob Hawke, Paul Keating, and John Howard.
5.3.2.9 Description
Kirribilli House is a Victorian Rustic Gothic style single storey house with attics, set amongst gardens and grassed areas sloping down to the northern side of Sydney Harbour. It is a fairly rare example of this style of house still retaining its harbourside setting. Steeply pitched slate gabled roofs with traceried bargeboards are a feature and are a key characteristic of the style. Single storey verandahs are on the eastern and southern sides of the building. There is a castellated bay window, and an entrance porch with a top light. Chimneys are tall and have twin terracotta pots. Walling is stone, which is painted and in some places is rendered in ashlar imitation; there is also some painted brick walling. There is a flat-roofed section to the house. Windows are multi-pane and there are shutters to French doors; there are also some dormers. Roof ridging is terracotta. Although interiors have been extensively altered over the years, there are still some possible lath and plaster ceilings in some rooms, red and white marble chimney pieces dating from the 1850s and 1860s, some 1850s and 1880s flooring, some 1850s cornices, a cedar staircase which is in part 1880s and some 1920s skirtings. Outbuildings include a 1920s brick garage and other structures.
The garden, though redeveloped, retains much of its Victorian era planning and style. (The garden is separately nominated, RNE 103530, and is dealt with in detail in that record). There are grassed banks to the east and south-east of the house, and intermediate lawns around sandstone outcrops edging the harbour; these are all linked with paths and stairs. Groups of trees frame harbour views, and there are many unusual and decorative plantings. A stone wall and steps (dating from the 1957 works) form the West Court in which roses are a feature. The driveway (along which there are fine angophoras) and carriage loop date also from 1957, and there is a kitchen garden. At the water’s edge there is a ruin of a sandstone boat harbour and pool. The pool, dating from the 1850s, is probably the oldest extant bathing pool on Sydney Harbour.
The house, gardens and views have a harmonious relationship, amplifying the place’s aesthetic values. The grounds complement those of adjacent Admiralty House to help form a large, landscaped garden zone on the northern slopes of the harbour. Kirribilli House is a prominent and well-known feature of Sydney Harbour, and occasional open days for the public serve to heighten the social significance of the place in the minds of Sydneysiders. Through its association with Prime Ministers, Kirribilli House is known to large numbers of Australians beyond Sydney.
5.3.2.10 Condition and Integrity
As indicated in the description above, Kirribilli House has seen many changes over the years, internally and externally, but it still retains a high level of integrity. Over the last few years alterations have included an internal door between the dining and drawing rooms, stairways, security installations, bathroom modernisation works, and garden changes. The pool/boat harbour was reconstructed in 1968 but later collapsed. (February 2002)
5.3.3 Kirribilli House Garden & Grounds
5.3.3.1 Summary Statement of Significance
The Kirribilli House garden and grounds, developed from the 1850s onwards, are historically significant. They help to reflect the lifestyle of prominent Sydney residents of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and are associated with the development of the Sydney Harbour foreshores over a considerable period. Further, and more importantly, they are associated with Prime Ministerial use of the property since 1957, and with visiting overseas guests of the Commonwealth who have used the property. The property also has notable associations with an early campaign to conserve open space on the harbour foreshore. (Criterion A.4) (Themes: 7.4 Federating Australia, 7.6 Administering Australia, 8.1 Organising recreation, 8.10 Pursuing excellence in the arts and sciences, 8.12 Living in and around Australian homes, 8.13 Living in cities and suburbs)
The garden and grounds are associated with Australian Prime Ministers since 1957, including Messrs Menzies, Holt, Gorton, McMahon, Whitlam, Fraser, Hawke, Keating, and Howard. The garden and grounds are further associated with Professor E.G. Waterhouse who redesigned the garden in 1956 and who occupies an important place in Australia’s garden history. (Criterion H.1)
The garden and grounds are significant as an example of a mainly Victorian era landscape style used to complement a Victorian Rustic Gothic house and to exploit a picturesque harbourside setting. The gardens helps to exemplify Victorian taste and social behaviour on the one hand, and, through later redevelopment, the type of setting considered appropriate for Prime Ministerial activities on the other. The garden includes a number of significant specimens, as mentioned in the description. (Criterion D.2 and B.2)
The Gothic styled house and the redeveloped Victorian era garden have a harmonious visual relationship which is strengthened by the harbour views available from the site. The place’s aesthetic significance is further enhanced by the visibility of the property from the harbour, the textured character of the aged trunks and canopies of the array of mature trees, and the way in which the garden and grounds complement those of adjacent Admiralty House in forming a significant garden backdrop on this northern edge of the harbour. (Criterion E.1)
The nineteenth century harbourside pool is one of the few remaining examples on Sydney Harbour and, although in a ruinous state, it is possibly the oldest bathing pool surviving around the harbour today. (Criteria A.4 and B.2)
The gardens and grounds are well known to the community, as a result of occasional open days which have given the public opportunities to visit the Prime Ministerial property, and because of their high visibility from the harbour. They are consequently of social significance both to Sydneysiders and to the wider Australian community. (Criterion G.1)
5.3.3.2 Criterion A – Processes
The Kirribilli House, Garden and Grounds, developed from the 1850s onwards, are historically significant. They help to reflect the lifestyle of prominent Sydney residents of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and are associated with the development of Sydney Harbour foreshores over a considerable period. Further, and more importantly, they are associated with Prime Ministerial use of the property since 1957, and with visiting overseas guests of the Commonwealth who have used the property. The property also has notable associations with an early campaign to conserve the open space on the harbour foreshore.
The nineteenth century harbourside pool, although in a ruinous state, it is possibly the oldest bathing pool surviving around the harbour today.
5.3.3.2.1 Attributes
All aspects of the house, garden and pool.
5.3.3.3 Criterion E – Aesthetic Characteristics
The Gothic styled house and the redeveloped Victorian era garden have a harmonious visual relationship which is strengthened by the harbour views available from the site. The place’s aesthetic significance is further enhanced by the visibility of the property from the harbour, the textured character of the aged trunks and canopies of the array of mature trees, and the way in which the garden and grounds complement those of adjacent Admiralty House in forming a significant garden backdrop on this northern edge of the harbour.
5.3.3.3.1 Attributes
The whole building and its garden setting, plus its relationship to Admiralty House, perceived from all viewpoints especially the harbour
5.3.3.4 Criterion G – Social Value
The gardens and grounds are well known to the community, as a result of occasional open days which have given the public opportunities to visit the Prime Ministerial property, and because of their high visibility from the harbour. They are consequently of social significance both to Sydneysiders and to the wider Australian community.
5.3.3.4.1 Attributes
The whole house and its garden setting
5.3.3.5 Criterion H – Significant People
The garden and grounds are associated with Australian Prime Ministers since 1957, including Messrs Menzies, Holt, Gorton, McMahon, Whitlam, Fraser, Hawke, Keating and Howard. The gardens and grounds are further associated with Professor E.G. Waterhouse who redesigned the garden in 1956 and who occupies an important place in Australia’s garden history.
5.3.3.5.1 Attributes
The whole house and its garden setting
5.3.3.6 History
The origins of Kirribilli House and Garden date back to the 1850s, when in 1854 Sydney merchant Adolf Frederick Feez bought the land for 200 pounds (the house is separately registered, see RNE 2879). The house, one of the earliest substantial houses erected in Kirribilli, was built by 1858 when the property was purchased by Esther Hughes for 3000 pounds. In 1871 Mrs Hughes gave the property to her daughter Esther, whose husband James Taylor was the Commissary-General of Ordinance in Sydney. Various changes were made to the house by the Taylors and by the 1880s it had virtually doubled in size; the changes were in sympathy with the original Victorian Gothic styling. The house helps to reflect the lifestyle of wealthy Sydney residents in the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century. Following the death of Mrs Taylor, her son Tom Lawry inherited the property who had it for some time before a sequence of other owners had the place.
In 1919 Sydney solicitor A.W. Allen bought the property and in early 1920 proposed a five-lot subdivision. Public reaction was swift and, led by high profile individuals like Dr Mary Booth OBE, Major General Hon Sir Granville Ryrie KCMG, and Sydney Smith, a campaign was launched to save open space at this point on the harbour. As a result, the Commonwealth Government decided to resume the property. More additions were made, and during the 1920s Kirribilli House was used in conjunction with Admiralty House as the Governor General’s residence (although for much of the year Kirribilli House was occupied just by the vice-regal staff). The property was then leased to individuals from 1930 until 1953.
In 1956 the Commonwealth decided to use Kirribilli as the residence of the Prime Minister when visiting Sydney and as accommodation for overseas guests of the Commonwealth. Substantial restoration works (including additions) were carried out in 1957 under the guidance of architects Fowell, Mansfield and Maclurcan, and the garden was redesigned by Professor E.G. Waterhouse. In November of that year the house received its first overseas guest, the Prime Minister of Japan. Kirribilli House has provided Sydney accommodation for Australian Prime Ministers since 1957, including Sir Robert Menzies, Harold Holt, Sir John Gorton, Sir William McMahon, Gough Whitlam, Malcolm Fraser, Bob Hawke, Paul Keating, and John Howard.
5.3.3.7 Description
The grounds are situated on a sloping sandstone ridge on the northern shore of Sydney Harbour. The land drops steeply to the foreshore, through a series of rockbenches and small cliffs. The soil consists of thin podzols which originally supported a woodland of Eucalypts, Angophoras, Cheese trees, Pittosporums, and Figs. There are very few structures in the grounds, apart from paths, flights of steps and occasional pergolas/arches. A nineteenth century saltwater pool (now a ruin) and former boat harbour abut the foreshore; dating from the 1850s the pool is possibly the oldest remnant bathing pool on Sydney Harbour. The rocky foreshore provides the eastern boundary to the property, the Admiralty House grounds the western and southern boundary, and Kirribilli Avenue and a small park reserve the northern boundary. These boundaries are reinforced by tree and shrub plantings and security fencing. On the western boundary are a garage (1920s), a service court, and a picking garden beside the path leading to Admiralty House. The small private courtyard nearby was developed in 1957, now screened by a plumbago hedge. Old fashioned varieties of standard and climbing roses are a feature of this area.
A series of steep grassed terraces modulate the open space between the House and the Harbour, linked by a system of paths and stairs. Terracotta pots mark some of the stairs. The entrance from Kirribilli Avenue is via a simple gravelled driveway constructed in 1957. It passes a guard post and modest lawn areas to terminate in a loop around an Illawarra Flame Tree (planted c.1860). An Angophora, Kentia Palm, Gingko, and a Jacaranda flank the driveway, while a Jacaranda, Mock Olive, Irish Strawberry Tree, Lemon Scented Gum, Silky Oak, and Camphor Laurel screen the northern boundary. On the southern boundary there are relatively few major trees, the most notable being Jacaranda, magnolia, Swamp Cypress, and Canary Island Palm. These were intended to frame the views south to the Harbour and across the grounds of Admiralty House to Bennelong Point. The eastern (harbourside) boundary is planted with Palms, Tree ferns, Angophora, Camphor Laurel, Hills Fig, Olive, Cedar, Lillypilly, and Cypress. These screen some of the views to and from the Harbour. The Victorian interest in foliage and flowers is perpetuated in the plantings of unusual and decorative species in the garden borders and beds. Camellias provide much of the shrub planting, supplemented by Agaves, Agapanthus, Clivea and Ivy.
The layout of the grounds generally reflect the late Victorian garden style and taste, providing an expansive grassed area which both displays the Gothic style architecture to full effect and allows the enjoyment of the impressive views out to the Harbour. The house, grounds and setting represent one of the few, and prominent, extant examples of Rustic Gothic style properties on the Sydney Harbour shoreline. The grounds are adequate in scale to provide a sufficient setting for this house.
The house, gardens and grounds, and views, have a harmonious relationship, amplifying the place’s aesthetic values. The gardens and grounds complement those of adjacent Admiralty house to help form a large landscaped garden zone on the northern slopes of the harbour. The property is a well-known feature of Sydney Harbour, and occasional open days for the public serve to heighten the social significance of the place in the minds of Sydneysiders. Through its association with Prime Ministers, the place is known to large numbers of Australians beyond Sydney.
5.3.3.8 Condition and Integrity
The garden is very well maintained, and much of its original Victorian character is intact; the garden was redeveloped in the late 1950s. Not being the principal residence of Prime Ministers (until the current Prime Minister), it is assumed that the grounds are adequate for Prime Ministers’ personal and official requirements during limited stays there. Some changes have been made in recent years, including the removal of one of the Gingkoes. The swimming pool is in a ruinous state. (March 2002)
5.4 Condition and Integrity of CHL Values
The listed CHL values (see Section 5.3) are what is recognised and protected under the EPBC Act and it is the listed CHL values that should guide any conservation works or future developments. Table 5‑1 provides a Condition and Integrity Assessment of the heritage values as outlined in the relevant CHL entries for. This Condition and Integrity Assessment considers the site as one element i.e., Kirribilli House and Garden, whilst the official values have previously listed the site under two separate listings; Kirribilli House and Kirribilli House Garden and Grounds.
Schedule 7A (e) of the EPBC Act requires a description of the condition of the Commonwealth Heritage Values of the place. AECOM notes that heritage values can be represented by tangible and intangible elements. Tangible elements can be readily assessed for their condition and integrity unlike intangible elements. At Kirribilli House and garden, the tangible elements that represent the heritage value of the place are identified in Table 5‑1 as ‘Attributes.’ Thus, these attributes have been assessed for their condition and integrity. The findings in Table 5-1 are supported by the individual assessments of the significant, contributory features of Kirribilli House and garden in Table 5‑3: Schedule of significant (contributory) elements and in detail in Appendix H: Physical survey/Fabric survey (see Volume 3).
Table 5‑1: Condition Assessment of CHL Values Against Both Listings
Commonwealth Heritage Criterion
Condition
Integrity
Assessment
Criterion AThe place has significant heritage value because of the place’s importance in the course or pattern of Australia’s natural or cultural history
GOOD
HIGH
The following attributes provide the basis for the Condition and Integrity Assessment:Built form and fabric of the house, function of the site as an official residence of the Prime Ministers (role of rooms and grounds), garden (soft and hard landscape), harbourside views (panoramas and framed), ruins of the boat harbour, boat sheds and bathing pool, physical connection to Admiralty House (paths and views)
Criterion BThe place has significant heritage value because of the place’s possession of uncommon, rare, or endangered aspects of Australia’s natural or cultural history.
GOOD
HIGH–MEDIUMSome loss of integrity of the bathing pool
The following attributes provide the basis for the Condition and Integrity Assessment:House and garden including the physical and visual curtilage, Gothic Victorian features, harbourside setting and views and ruins of the bathing pool
Criterion DThe place has significant heritage value because of the place’s importance in demonstrating the principal characteristics of:A class of Australia’s natural or cultural places; orA class of Australia’s natural or cultural environments.
GOOD
HIGH
The following attributes provide the basis for the Condition and Integrity Assessment:Prominent siting of the house, planning of the house (rooms constructed between 1856-1900, asymmetrical plan, projecting bays), architectural form (steep pitched gable roofs, dormers, vertically proportioned windows, casement windows), Victorian Rustic Gothic fabric (traceried bargeboards, decorative timber valence ), garden (rolling lawn, stone retaining walls, terraces, meandering paths, rock outcrops, sandstone cliffs, variety of foliage plants, strategic placement for shade and shelter, ) and harbour views (panoramic, framed and filtered views), harbourside structures (boat harbour, boatsheds, and bathing pool), views and enduring relationship to Admiralty House (connecting paths, views from various vantage points on the harbour)
Criterion EThe place has significant heritage value because of the place’s importance in exhibiting particular aesthetic characteristics valued by a community or cultural group.
GOOD
HIGH
The following attributes provide the basis for the Condition and Integrity Assessment:Victorian style of the house and garden, harbourside setting (rock outcrops and sandstone cliffs, harbour views), landmark qualities (topography, setting of the house, relationship to Admiralty House, mature garden, and canopies)
Criterion GThe place has significant heritage value because of the place’s strong or special association with a particular community or cultural group for social, cultural or spiritual reasons.
GOOD
HIGH
The following attributes provide the basis for the Condition and Integrity Assessment:The entire house and gardens, relationship to Admiralty House, public open days, landmark qualities, harbourside setting and views
Criterion HThe place has significant heritage value because of the place’s special association with the life or works of a person, or group of persons, of importance in Australia’s natural or cultural history.
GOOD
HIGH
The following attributes provide the basis for the Condition and Integrity Assessment:The entire house and gardens, features that contribute to the site functioning as the prime minister’s residence, historical events associated with various prime ministers
5.4.1 Significance grading
Detailed significance assessments for each contributory element were prepared and is included in the in 5.4.3. The threshold for assessment is defined below and has been adopted from the
Draft Kirribilli House Conservation Management Plan 2010, Design 5 (Design 5, 2010):
The place also includes structures, spaces and elements, including landscape, of varying levels
of cultural significance. These have been graded according to their relative significance. These gradings include assessment of historic, aesthetic, social, and technical values, as well as use, meanings, and associations. They include tangible as well as intangible values. The consideration of social values includes the public perception of the place. An explanation of the gradings is provided below:
Spaces/Elements Graded 1: Exceptional Significance: These structures, spaces or elements are of exceptional cultural significance. They are essential to an understanding of the significance of the place and play a crucial role in supporting this significance. They retain
a high degree of integrity and intactness from their original construction/installation or later significant period
Spaces/Elements Graded 2: High Significance: These spaces or elements are of high cultural significance and play an important role in strengthening and supporting the significance of the place (but less than that for Grade 1). They contribute through configuration, location, and/or use. Their integrity may have been compromised by later alteration or reconstruction
Spaces/Elements Graded 3: Moderate Significance: These structures, spaces or elements retain some integrity but are of lesser cultural significance. They play a moderate role in supporting the significance of the place. Significant fabric may have been altered or obscured. If so, it may have been of higher significance in their earlier configuration or context
Spaces/Elements Graded 4: Low Significance: These structures, spaces or elements are of low cultural significance. They may have been substantially altered and/or play a minor role in supporting the significance of the place
Spaces/Elements Graded 5: Intrusive: These structures, spaces or elements are intrusive and are damaging to the cultural significance of the place. They obscure rather than support its significance.
5.4.2 Tolerance for change
A grading of tolerance for change can be identified to manage changes to significant elements and
is described in Table 5‑2.
Table 5‑2 Tolerance for change according to level of significance
Level of significance
Level of Tolerance
Exceptional
Low - These spaces and elements are essential to understanding the significance of the place and play a crucial role in supporting that significance. They must be retained and their significant attributes conserved. Adaptation and/or interpretation should only be undertaken where significant layout, elements and/or fabric is altered or missing.These spaces should not be subdivided as this would detract from their integrity.
High
Low - These spaces and elements play an important role in strengthening and supporting the significance of the place. They should be retained and conserved. Generally,(as for exceptional), there is some allowance for adaptation where this is in accordance with overall significance, intactness/integrity, and use. New elements may be introduced provided they respect the significant attributes of the spaces.
Moderate
Moderate - These spaces and elements retain some integrity but are of lesser significance. They play a moderate role in supporting the significance of the place and should be retained and conserved where possible. Adaptation and/or alteration is permissible. New openings and new walls/partitions may be introduced.
Low
High - These spaces and elements have only some significance and should be retained and conserved where possible. They may be adapted, altered or removed.
Intrusive
High - These spaces or elements are considered intrusive. Remove/modify to reduce adverse impacts.
5.4.3 Contributory elements and significance grading
The contributory elements and fabric that comprises the identified significance are summarised in
Table 5‑3. A detailed room by room is included in Volume 2, Appendix H.