The ES&A Bank Building, Moonee Ponds – Restored and Revitalised by Balance Architecture

Not everyone has the opportunity to create a unique business destination in a century old bank. In recent articles we have admired the extraordinary banking chambers created from the mid 1880s until as late as 1926 by the ES&A Banking Group (now merged into the ANZ Banking Group). Some time ago, the banking group sold off the then ‘Moonee Ponds’ branch which was located on Bank St Ascot Vale, cnr of Mt Alexander Rd. Balance Architecture had the task of restoring it to its original glory.

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The new owner chose to utilise this remarkable building to operate a business consultancy from. The concept was not to ‘gut’ the place and rebuild internally, rather it was decided to focus on the fine detail of the original construction and return it to its former glory. Often the ES&A Bank buildings have a course of tiling placed just above the window levels, with the individual tiles crafted for the bank with its colours and icons. This building did not but the livery has been expressed above the arched windows and with the internal colour scheme.

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Andrew Fedorowicz, principal architect for Balance Architecture and Interior Design wanted to capture the unique look and feel of this fine craftsmanship throughout the building. Inside the decorative dado stencils and original colour schemes finish the truly authentic feel of this magnificent building.

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Rich mahogany timbers, brass fittings and the elegant furniture of the times compliment the superb interior design. Beautiful plaster wall mouldings and ceiling rosettes feature throughout the building. From the roadside the multifaceted mitred façade is set off by the intricate brickwork and upper circular windows.

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The boardroom with its elegant marble fireplace, full gilded mirror and high ceiling in soft period wallpapers is simply breathtaking. Resplendent in deep greens, featuring a genuine period chandelier, the corporate colours of the old bank certainly live again.

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When selecting an architect, its more than sensible to choose the architect sensitive to both your immediate needs and the living heritage of the building you have chosen to live in, work in or redevelop. Nothing can replace real experience. It is particularly true with Heritage buildings. Andrew Fedorowicz has spent a lifetime working on Heritage buildings (as well as many other projects) and is superbly positioned to assist you in the development of your project. He is a fellow of the Australian Institute of Architects, a lifetime achievement.

Whether it’s a modern interior that transforms an older property into a genuine luxury abode with the space and comfort you desire, or it’s a combination of both true heritage and today’s living spaces, consult with Balance Architecture and Interior Design to achieve the end result that will satisfy your aspirations. The result is a property both liveable and entirely beautiful in the simplicity of its design.

 

Call now on 0418 341 443 to speak directly with Andrew today. Make an appointment for a free, no-obligation consultation. Alternatively call 03 8696 9700 and arrange a time suitable to suit your needs. Leave your details here [Contact link] for a prompt reply.

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