Kalgoorlie’s Architecture: A Guide to Heritage Buildings

Kalgoorlie’s rich history as a gold rush town is reflected in its beautifully preserved heritage buildings, many of which date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From grand hotels and town halls to quaint cottages and commercial buildings, Kalgoorlie’s architecture offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply a curious visitor, here’s a guide to some of Kalgoorlie’s most iconic heritage buildings and the stories behind them.

1. Kalgoorlie Town Hall: A Grand Civic Landmark

The Kalgoorlie Town Hall is one of the most impressive examples of civic architecture in the Goldfields. Built in 1908 during the height of the gold rush, the town hall was designed to reflect Kalgoorlie’s status as a prosperous mining town. With its elegant Edwardian-style facade, grand staircase, and beautifully decorated interior, the town hall remains a symbol of the town’s wealth and ambition during the gold boom.

Visitors can admire the ornate plasterwork, stained-glass windows, and the magnificent auditorium, which has hosted countless events over the years. The Kalgoorlie Town Hall is still used for civic functions and is open to the public for tours, offering a glimpse into the town’s grand past.

What we love: The beautiful interior and historic grandeur, with guided tours that provide fascinating insights into Kalgoorlie’s history.

Good to know: The town hall is located on Hannan Street and is often included in walking tours of the town’s heritage sites.

Location: 316 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430

Image © Tourism Western Australia

2. The Exchange Hotel: A Gold Rush-Era Icon

No visit to Kalgoorlie is complete without seeing the iconic Exchange Hotel. Built in 1894, this grand pub and hotel became a symbol of the town’s booming gold rush economy. Its ornate Victorian-style architecture, with decorative iron lacework and large verandas, stands as a reminder of the wealth and optimism that once flowed through Kalgoorlie.

The Exchange Hotel has been carefully preserved, retaining its historic charm while offering modern amenities. Inside, the pub—Judd’s Pub—is still a popular gathering spot, allowing visitors to enjoy a drink while surrounded by a piece of Kalgoorlie’s history.

What we love: The intricate ironwork and classic Victorian architecture that make the Exchange Hotel one of Kalgoorlie’s most photographed buildings.

Good to know: Stop in for a drink at Judd’s Pub to fully appreciate the hotel’s history and atmosphere.

Location: 135 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430

Image © Tourism Western Australia

3. Palace Hotel: Historic Elegance with a Presidential Link

Built in 1897, the Palace Hotel is another grand example of gold rush-era architecture in Kalgoorlie. Originally designed to provide luxury accommodation for miners and businessmen, the Palace Hotel features beautiful stained-glass windows, polished timber staircases, and a balcony overlooking Hannan Street. The hotel’s opulent style reflects the prosperity of Kalgoorlie during its early years.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Palace Hotel is its connection to Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States, who lived in Kalgoorlie as a mining engineer. Hoover famously gifted the hotel a large mirror, which still hangs in the lobby today, making it a unique piece of history.

What we love: The hotel’s rich history and its connection to a future U.S. president, adding an extra layer of intrigue to its already grand architecture.

Good to know: The Palace Hotel is still open as a hotel and pub, making it a great place to stay if you want to experience Kalgoorlie’s history firsthand.

Location: 137 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430

Image © Tourism Western Australia

4. The York Hotel: Victorian Splendor

One of Kalgoorlie’s most striking heritage buildings, the York Hotel was built in 1901 and remains a stunning example of Victorian architecture. The hotel’s grand facade features intricate iron lacework, stained glass, and a prominent corner turret, making it one of the most eye-catching buildings on Hannan Street.

The York Hotel has a long history of serving Kalgoorlie’s gold mining community, and its beautifully restored interior provides a glimpse into the luxurious accommodation that was available during the town’s golden era. Today, the York Hotel operates as a pub and restaurant, offering visitors the chance to dine and drink in one of Kalgoorlie’s most historic settings.

What we love: The detailed Victorian design and the grand turret that make the York Hotel a standout architectural gem in Kalgoorlie.

Good to know: The hotel offers casual dining and is a great place to relax while taking in the surrounding heritage buildings.

Location: 259 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430

Image © Tourism Western Australia

5. Warden Finnerty’s Residence: A Colonial-Era Gem

For a change of pace from the grand hotels of Hannan Street, head to Warden Finnerty’s Residence, a beautifully preserved colonial home built in 1895. This historic residence was once the home of John Finnerty, the town’s first mining warden, and offers a unique insight into the domestic life of Kalgoorlie’s early settlers.

The house is an excellent example of Federation bungalow architecture, with wide verandas, wooden floors, and high ceilings designed to cope with the harsh Goldfields climate. The residence has been carefully restored and is now open to the public as a museum, showcasing period furniture, household items, and fascinating artifacts from the gold rush era.

What we love: The tranquil atmosphere and the opportunity to step back in time to experience life in early Kalgoorlie.

Good to know: Guided tours are available, offering in-depth information about the house’s history and the role of mining wardens in the region.

Location: McKenzie St, Coolgardie, WA 6429

6. British Arms Hotel: Australia’s Smallest Two-Story Pub

Part of the Museum of the Goldfields, the British Arms Hotel is said to be Australia’s smallest two-story pub, making it one of Kalgoorlie’s quirkiest heritage buildings. The hotel, built in 1899, was once a popular spot for miners, but it has since been converted into a museum exhibit that showcases life in Kalgoorlie during the early 1900s.

The British Arms Hotel’s small size and charming architecture make it a fun stop for visitors, and it’s a key part of the museum’s historical collection. The museum also houses a variety of gold rush-era artifacts, mining equipment, and other exhibits that explore Kalgoorlie’s past.

What we love: The novelty of visiting Australia’s smallest two-story pub and the connection to the broader history of Kalgoorlie’s gold rush.

Good to know: Admission to the British Arms Hotel is included with entry to the Museum of the Goldfields, making it a convenient and informative stop.

Location: 17 Hannan St, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430

7. St. Mary’s Catholic Church: A Place of Worship and Reflection

For a peaceful and reflective stop on your architectural tour, visit St. Mary’s Catholic Church, one of Kalgoorlie’s most beautiful heritage-listed buildings. Built in 1902, the church is an excellent example of Federation Gothic architecture, with its pointed arches, tall spire, and intricate stonework.

The interior of St. Mary’s is equally impressive, with stunning stained-glass windows and detailed woodwork. The church remains an active place of worship and is a tranquil spot to admire Kalgoorlie’s spiritual heritage and architectural craftsmanship.

What we love: The church’s serene atmosphere and the detailed Gothic design that sets it apart from other heritage buildings in the town.

Good to know: Visitors are welcome to explore the church during the day, but it’s best to check service times if you wish to avoid busy periods.

Location: 13 Brookman St, Kalgoorlie, WA 6430

Final Thoughts

Kalgoorlie’s architecture tells the story of a town that flourished during the gold rush and continued to thrive as a mining hub. From grand hotels and public buildings to charming homes and quirky pubs, the town’s heritage buildings offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether you’re exploring on foot or taking a guided tour, Kalgoorlie’s architectural gems are sure to leave a lasting impression.