Brick by Brick: The Remarkable Evolution of Australian Homes

Tanya Spencer
9 hours ago
3 min read

Australia’s homes tell the story of our nation’s history; from humble colonial cottages to the modern, sustainable smart homes we see today. Each era of Australian housing reflects the country’s growth, climate, lifestyle, and cultural influences. Let’s take a journey through time to see how Australian homes have evolved over the decades.

🇦🇺 1800s: The Colonial Cottage and Early Settler Homes

When European settlers arrived in Australia in the late 1700s, housing was basic and built from whatever materials were available.

Early Colonial cottages were typically made of timber slabs, wattle and daub, or stone.
Roofs were thatched or covered with shingles.
Homes were small, practical, and designed to provide shelter from harsh conditions rather than comfort.

As towns grew, Georgian style homes became popular: symmetrical brick houses with simple, elegant facades and verandas to suit Australia’s warmer climate.

Key Features: Stone or brick walls, pitched roofs, central fireplaces, and wraparound verandas for cooling shade.

Late 1800s – Early 1900s: The Federation Era

By the turn of the 20th century, Australia was forming its national identity. The Federation home (circa 1890–1915) became the first true “Australian” architectural style.

These homes celebrated local craftsmanship with decorative timberwork, red brick walls, and stained-glass windows.
Roofs were steeply pitched with terracotta tiles, and wide verandas became a signature look.

Federation homes symbolized pride and prosperity in the growing Australian nation.

Design Highlights: Ornate gables, leadlight windows, verandas with timber fretwork, and native garden surrounds.

1920s–1940s: California Bungalows and the Interwar Period

After World War I, Australia embraced more relaxed and affordable home styles. The California Bungalow, inspired by American design, became a suburban favourite.

Single storey layouts, open porches, and low-pitched roofs made them perfect for family living.
Timber and brick were commonly used, and gardens became integral to the Australian lifestyle.

During the 1930s–40s, Art Deco influences introduced curved walls, geometric shapes, and decorative brickwork to urban homes.

Popular Features: Front verandas, bay windows, decorative brick patterns, and practical floor plans.

1950s–1970s: The Rise of Suburbia and the Aussie Dream

The post-war boom brought a new housing wave: the suburban brick veneer home.

As families grew, the “quarter-acre block” became the Australian dream.
Homes were simple, functional, and built for comfort, with open living areas and backyards for barbecues and kids’ play.

By the 1970s, mid century modern influences added flat roofs, open-plan designs, and large glass windows, connecting indoor and outdoor living.

Defining Traits: Brick veneer, tiled roofs, single-storey layouts, carports, and big backyards.

1980s–1990s: The Era of Bigger Homes

As the economy strengthened, Australians began to build larger homes with more rooms and luxury features.

Two-storey designs became popular.
Open-plan kitchens and family rooms took centre stage.
Double garages and ensuites became standard in many suburban homes.

This era also saw the rise of Mediterranean and Tuscan inspired designs with rendered walls, arched windows, and tiled floors.

Lifestyle Focus: Space, comfort, and entertaining; the Australian home was now a status symbol.

2000s–Today: Sustainable, Smart, and Stylish

Modern Australian homes combine innovation, sustainability, and technology.

Energy efficiency and natural light are top priorities.
Materials such as recycled timber, solar panels, and double-glazed windows are now standard.
Open-plan layouts blur the line between indoor and outdoor living, making the most of Australia’s beautiful climate.

Architects today draw inspiration from the past while embracing the future

creating eco friendly, minimalist designs that are both beautiful and functional.

Trending Features: Solar power, smart home systems, sustainable materials, and modular or prefab construction.