1889 – 1919

New Ideas for Residences of Distinction

James Peddle was a master furniture craftsman with knowledge of the English Arts and Crafts movement and in 1889 he supervised a commission for the new impressive Australia Hotel. At this time he established an office as an architectural artist with a focus on residential projects. Samuel G Thorp joined the office as an articled pupil in 1902, becoming a partner by 1915.

James Peddle encouraged his staff to travel, study and work overseas. He travelled to the USA in 1912 to qualify as an architect in California. Peddle settled in Pasadena and set up an architectural practice enabling the pursuit of climate - appropriate bungalows integrated with new technologies. Upon his return to Sydney in 1915, Peddle advocated healthy living through the design and construction of housing responsive to Sydney’s climate and geography.

Pictured: Portrait of James Peddle (c.1920’s, May and Mina Moore Photographer)