Common Types of Housing Outside the Inner City of Melbourne

Melbourne, known for its vibrant culture and diverse architecture, has a rich tapestry of housing types both within and outside its inner city. This article delves into the most common types of housing found in the outer suburbs, detailing their characteristics and evolution over time.

Traditional Dwellings: Timber Weatherboard and Brick Houses

Single-storey dwellings, predominantly constructed with timber weatherboard or brick, were the norm until the 1960s. These traditional houses are characterized by their simplicity and affordability, making them popular with early settlers. Timber weatherboard houses, with their wooden facades and interior walls, offer a cozy and natural feel, while brick houses provide a more modern and robust aesthetic. Both types continue to be the most common form of housing in Melbourne, reflecting their widespread appeal and practicality.

Viceroys: Victorian Terrace Houses

While single-storey dwellings were common, another architectural style gained prominence in Melbourne's inner-city areas during the 19th century: the Victorian terrace house. These two-storey brick houses are notable for their symmetrical designs, ornate facades, and uniformity. Initially built to accommodate growing populations, these houses still hold a special place in the hearts of many Melburnians. Despite the rise of more contemporary housing types, Victorian terrace houses remain a popular choice, especially among those seeking character and heritage.

Emergence of Multi-Story Housing in the 1960s

The 1960s marked a significant turning point in Melbourne's housing landscape, with the development of low-rise apartment blocks in many suburban areas. These multi-story buildings, ranging from 2 to 3 storeys, offered a solution for densely populated suburbs and provided affordable housing options for growing families. Many of these apartment blocks were constructed with brick or concrete, reflecting the practical and efficient construction methods of the time.

21st Century High-Rise Buildings

Since the 2010s, there has been a significant trend towards the construction of high-rise apartment buildings in Melbourne's outer suburbs and inner-city areas. Urban development has led to the transformation of once low-density residential zones into vibrant, vertically integrated neighborhoods. Prominent examples include the high-rise buildings in Footscray and South Melbourne, which showcase advanced construction techniques and materials such as cast concrete. These towering structures not only offer more living space per unit but also contribute to the city's skyline, making a visual and economic impact.

Suburban Sprawl: Molded Blocks of Brick Veneer Houses

In the outer suburbs of Tarneit and Wyndham Vale, suburban sprawl has led to the rapid development of cookie-cutter suburbs. Thousands of identical brick veneer houses, often constructed on small blocks, have been built to meet the demand for affordable housing. These houses, while standardized and unremarkable, provide a quick and cost-effective solution for recent migrants, particularly from India. The uniformity of these houses reflects a modern approach to urban planning, prioritizing mass production and affordability over individuality and character.

Conclusion

Melbourne's housing landscape is a dynamic reflection of its rich history and evolving urban development. From the timeless charm of Victorian terrace houses to the towering high-rises of the modern age, the city offers a variety of housing options that cater to diverse needs and preferences. Whether one seeks the authenticity of traditional architecture or the convenience of contemporary living, Melbourne ensures there is a housing type to meet every lifestyle and budget.