Holyman House, Art Deco office building in Launceston, Tasmania
Holyman House is a five-story office building in Launceston with a steel frame and concrete walls arranged in geometric forms. An illuminated spire rises 26 meters (85 feet) up its facade and defines the building's profile from the street.
Constructed in 1936, the building served as headquarters for a local shipping and aviation company owned by the Holyman family. The structure was built as the business expanded its services across Tasmania.
The building shows how modern design ideas came to Launceston in the 1930s, with clean lines and geometric forms that replaced heavier decoration from earlier times. Locals recognize it as a turning point in how the city's skyline began to change during that decade.
The building sits at the intersection of George and Brisbane streets in Launceston's business district, making it easy to reach on foot. Ground-level spaces house a travel center and other services, while upper floors contain office space.
When finished, it was Launceston's largest office block and remains the city's only building with a riveted steel frame construction. This building technique was cutting-edge at the time and set it apart from other structures in the region.
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