This small Australian town is home to one of the finest Art Deco main streets in Australia.
It is certainly not what you expect to find when you roll into town. Kyogle is a pretty place, full of traditional timber homes. It is a typical Australian rural farming community that has kept a low profile. This makes it even more delightful to discover such stunning examples of 1930's Art Deco architecture above the shops along the main street.
How did this timber town get an Art Deco Main Street?
The town was settled in the 1840's. Given the close proximity to rainforest it became a major timber lumber camp. By the start of 1900, dairy farmers moved in and a large butter factory opened. Dairy and timber are still the towns prominent industries. Some of the early timber buildings built in the 1920's are still standing.
In the late 1920's a series of large fires burnt entire rows of shops to the ground. These fires ravaged many of the original buildings of Kyogle and destroyed the infrastructure of the town. Determined to prevent similar disasters occurring again, the main street was rebuilt with bricks and concrete. This was done at a time when Art Deco was at the height of its popularity. Local builders and architects adopted this fashionable style, embracing the clean lines and details.
I have walked through Kyogle many times over the years. My visit earlier this week was the first time I really stopped and looked up.
Until next time,
xx Isabella
thnx))) up ^
Interesting coincidence that the blue white pillars in one building is abit like the steemit colours. :-)
Such vibrant colours.
i can actually feel the charm of this place-- it's inspiring! Thanks, upvoted
It is a charming town. Maybe in the middle of summer the charm is lost a bit in 40 degree heat. There is some old fashioned cafes and interesting shops here and the visitors information centre makes the best lentil burger!
@bridgetbunchy Beautiful buildings, photos, & post! Thank you for sharing! :)
You are most welcome. It was a lovely stop over in Kyogle on our road trip journey this week
Very inspiring pictures and story.
Fascinating - I will look with interest next time I am in Kyogle.
Indeed. Apparently to make room for the new IGA in town, down the bottom of the street a historical block of old art deco buildings were demolished recently. Some locals and historic societies unsuccessfully petitioned against the development. Hopefully for the most part this towns history is preserved. I really like the art deco buildings.