Strand Arcade
412-414A George Street and 191-195 Pitt Street, Sydney
1891-92 John B Spencer with Charles E Fairfax
1969 (remodelled)
1978 Alan Lawrence and Stephenson & Turner (rebuilt after fire)
A rare, rebuilt late Victorian arcade from the prosperous ‘boom’ times when Sydney experienced rapid growth in shopping arcade construction between 1880 and 1900. Inspired by London’s successful Burlington Arcade.
The Strand was the pinnacle of Sydney’s glass roofed arcades. The roof glass was tinted to provide correct lighting for the upper floor photographers.
The recent restoration after fire damage is a true representation of the original craftsmanship. The overhanging gallery is supported independently of the columns so as to obtain a clear and unobstructed view of the full length of the interior. The Strand Arcade originally included a special gas and electricity system and hydraulic lifts.
Information appearing in this section is reproduced from Sydney Architecture, with the kind permission of the author, Graham Jahn, a well-known Sydney architect and former City of Sydney Councillor. Sydney Architecture, rrp $35.00, is available from all good book stores or from the publisher, Watermark Press, Telephone: 02 9818 5677.
