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​Marvellous Melbourne’s Architecture is a beautiful hardcover photographic book which provides insight into Melbourne's architecture from the late 19th to early 20th century, showcasing both historic landmarks and smaller noteworthy building. By the 1880s, following the gold rush of the 1850s, Melbourne had rapidly expanded and become one of the largest cities in the British Empire. The term "Marvellous Melbourne" reflected its economic growth and development. During this period, the city experienced significant investment and construction, resulting in numerous buildings which demonstrated both the city's status and the ambitions of its residents. Office buildings up to twelve storeys were constructed, similar to those found in New York, London, and Chicago, reflecting contemporary architectural trends. The original version of this book was written in the 1980s as a school project and remained on a bookshelf for over forty years; it has now been revised with updated information and images. This pictorial book presents a historical overview of a variety of institutions, including offices, theatres, cinemas, hotels, and other notable buildings from this period taking readers on a nostalgic journey.

Copyright © 2024 Joanne Douge

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