The Library has unique collections relating to the history of architecture in Western Australia, and the development of education for architects. We hold a number of the books acquired by the library, some donated by prominent Western Australian architects, artists and designers.
The collection represents the work of three generations of the Summerhayes family, Edwin, Reginald and Geoffrey, whose combined practice of architecture in Western Australia extended through the 20th century. The Library has approximately 500 drawings and more than 1,500 photographs relating to the design work of the Summerhayes architects.
A set of 96 drawings, in pencil and ink, on paper measuring 250 x 352mm. The drawings feature exterior and interior views of houses, churches and castles in Kent, Cambridge, Lincolnshire, Norfolk, Dublin, Germany, and France, and some detail drawings. A number relate to the architectural work of Sir Gilbert Scott. The drawings are currently being digitised for access online.
The Library has published works dating from 1770 that were acquired to support the first students of architecture in Western Australia. Perth Technical School commenced a diploma of architecture in 1946, when a library was established by the school’s Department of Architecture. Many of these classic works were donated by local architecture practices.
The Library has architectural briefs, plans, models and specifications relating to the construction of the John Curtin Centre. The collection includes a comprehensive set of photographs relating to the development of the centre, which includes the John Curtin Gallery and the John Curtin Prime Ministerial Library.
