Photo by: J Bar licenced under (CC-SA)

Corana & Hygeia: 211-215 Avoca Street. Randwick, New South Wales.

Corana and Hygeia are a pair of two storey Victorian Terrace Houses built in 1896 by the wife of Judge Thomas Calleghan.  The terraces, designed by architect Edmund Blacket were originally built as rental houses.

The large high ceiling terraces are a symmetrical mirror design of two protruding end terraces.  Each has highly intricate classical details in the mannerist or Italianate style, an eccentric composition of round and triangular pediments and columns adorning large faceted bay windows crowned by a prominent cornice with brackets.  A classical ballustrade adorns the parapet with three large chimneys protruding for picturesque effect.   The two double storey verandahs are bullnosed and sheltered within the U-shaped plan of the terrace.  They are dressed in detailed cast iron lacework divided into three sections by cast iron columns.  Each of the levels is lined with large French doors featuring ornamental sashes.  Each of the entryways have detailed leadlight and etched glass window surrounds featuring Australiana themes.  The naming of the terraces reflects the Mediterranean influences – Hygeia is a Greek word meaning “health” which Corana, an Italian province near Milan.

The terraces are currently used as “Randwick Lodge”, boutique accomodation.  They are listed on the New South Wales state heritage register.