Metcalfe Bond Stores

Item details


Name of item:	Metcalfe Bond Stores
Other name/s:	New Metcalfe Bond Stores
Type of item:	Built
Group/Collection:	Maritime Industry
Category:	Warehouse/storage area
Location:	Lat: -33.8569833150 Long: 151.2086591110
Primary address:	68-84 George Street, The Rocks, NSW 2000
Parish:	St Philip
County:	Cumberland
Local govt. area:	Sydney
Local Aboriginal Land Council:	Metropolitan

Property description

Lot/Volume Code	Lot/Volume Number	Section Number	Plan/Folio Code	Plan/Folio Number
LOT	4		DP	247644

All addresses

Street Address	Suburb/town	LGA	Parish	County	Type
68-84 George Street	The Rocks	Sydney	St Philip	Cumberland	Primary Address

Owner/s

Organisation Name	Owner Category	Date Ownership Updated
Place Management NSW	State Government

Statement of significance:


	Metcalfe Bond Stores and site are of State heritage significance for their historical and scientific cultural values. The site and building are also of State heritage significance for their contribution to The Rocks area which is of State Heritage significance in its own right. The building known as the Metcalfe Bond Stores has simple unobtrusive lines with pleasing rhythm and texture. (Croker 1976) The building has landmark significance as part of a group of early 20th century buildings in George Street North complementing in scale, materials, façade treatment and fenestration the ASN Co Building, No 88 George Street, and the Harrington's Buildings, and being visible as a backdrop to Campbell's Stores from Campbell's Cove, Sydney Cove and Harbour, and Circular Quay East. Its conversion to shops and offices in 1973 also demonstrates attitudes to conservation philosophy and practice of the period as the first such conversion by the SCRA.
	Date significance updated: 30 Mar 11
	Note: The State Heritage Inventory provides information about heritage items listed by local and State government agencies. The State Heritage Inventory is continually being updated by local and State agencies as new information becomes available. Read the Department of Premier and Cabinet copyright and disclaimer.

Description


Construction years:	1912-1916
Physical description:	The Metcalfe Bond comprises two adjacent buildings, both simple bond stores in the functionalist tradition with timber post and beam interior construction. Exterior walls are of load bearing red brick with minimal darker brick outlines. 66-76 George Street: The older of the two buildings, built in 1912, comprises three storeys to George Street and five to Hickson Road, seven bays long with a stucco parapet. Openings on ground and second floors are semi-circular in shape. 78-84 George Street: Located south of the earlier building and built in 1916, also of three storeys to George Street, five to Hickson Road but nine bays long. The parapet is stepped, dividing the faade into three large sections. All openings are rectangular with two prominent string courses between the first and second floors. The brick detailing is more elaborate than the 1912 store, but the two form a harmonious whole of uniform height and texture. (Croker 1976) Style: Federation Warehouse; Storeys: 5; Roof Cladding: Corrugated Iron; Floor Frame: Timber
Physical condition and/or Archaeological potential:	Archaeology Assessment Condition: Destroyed Assessment Basis: Site redeveloped in 1994. Former petrol station. Monitoring of works indicated fuel tanks on George St frontage cut into bedrock, machinery / car hoist foundations at rear obliterated any former evidence of site use. Some demolition material noted on site but this had been churned up by site preparation works in 1953. Investigation: Monitoring of demolition of Petrol Station 1994
	Date condition updated:03 May 01
Modifications and dates:	Built: North: 1912-13; South: 1916 1926: Alterations to the building were carried out by Walter Gawne & Sons, Builders, of Newtown. 1973: the SCRA completed major renovations of the New Metcalfe Bond Store which enabled the letting of a large area as a major restaurant in March. The SCRA's offices were also located in the New Metcalfe Bond. (SCRA Annual Report 1973: 4) 1975: Work on the remainder of the building was completed, and the building fully occupied as offices, the Australia Music Centre, restaurants and a shopping arcade. (SCRA Annual Report 1975: 4) 1986: The Metcalfe Arcade was extended southwards to connect with the foyer of 88 George Street. (SCRA Annual Report 1976: 20)


Current use:	Offices / Shops
Former use:	Aboriginal land, town lot, Bond Stores, Warehousing, restaurant

History

Historical notes:

The "Eora people" was the name given to the coastal Aborigines around Sydney. Central Sydney is therefore often referred to as "Eora Country". Within the City of Sydney local government area, the traditional owners are the Cadigal and Wangal bands of the Eora. There is no written record of the name of the language spoken and currently there are debates as whether the coastal peoples spoke a separate language "Eora" or whether this was actually a dialect of the Dharug language. Remnant bushland in places like Blackwattle Bay retain elements of traditional plant, bird and animal life, including fish and rock oysters (Anita Heiss, "Aboriginal People and Place", Barani: Indigenous History of Sydney City http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/barani).

With the invasion of the Sydney region, the Cadigal and Wangal people were decimated but there are descendants still living in Sydney today. All cities include many immigrants in their population. Aboriginal people from across the state have been attracted to suburbs such as Pyrmont, Balmain, Rozelle, Glebe and Redfern since the 1930s. Changes in government legislation in the 1960s provided freedom of movement enabling more Aboriginal people to choose to live in Sydney (Anita Heiss, "Aboriginal People and Place", Barani: Indigenous History of Sydney City http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/barani)

Site:
The building stands upon the site of the former garden and orchard for Robert Campbell's Wharf House (1800-1883)(Johnson, 2000), itself on a grant made to Campbell on 29 June 1814 (Architectural Projects, 2005). Part of it was later used as a quarry. The existing stone retaining wall at George Street probably dates from the mid to late 19th century (Johnson, 2000).

For much of the 19th century the site was apparently used as Campbell's garden and was acquired by the Colonial Government in 1887 and then used as a stone quarry (ibid, 2005).

In 1900 the site was vested in the NSW Government as part of the Darling Harbour Resumptions, following the outbreak of bubonic plague (SCRA 1972: CC/05).

In 1912, a three storey warehouse used by Upward & Co., Bonded and Free Stores was resumed and demolished to allow the formation of Hickson Road. The company required new storage space to replace the demolished building.

Upward & Co. was founded by John Upward (1854-1918) born in London, who arrived in NSW in 1862. After time in Queensland, he returned to NSW in 1874 and found employment with the Australian Steam Navigation Company (ASN). He returned to Qld. as manager of ASN's Cairns branch, returning to NSW again to take charge of its bonded stores. Upward approached ASN in 1880 and as a result took over its interests in the bond and ran it as his 'private concern', Upward & Co. In August 1912 John Upward signed a 50 year lease on a parcel of land with a frontage of 81m on the eastern side of George Street. One condition of the lease was that 'a building to the value of at least 10,000 pounds was erected thereon'. (TKD, 2015).

The land on which this building now stands was leased from the Government for 50 years. The Metcalfe Bond was built in two sections, the northern section in 1912 (TKD 2015 say 1913) and the southern section in 1916 (SCRA 1972: CC/05).

On his death in 1918 the company was managed by his son, Leonard (ibid, 2015).

At the conclusion of the 50 year lease period, Upward & Co. continued to occupy the building as tenants until 1972 - some seven years. Once the company had vacated the building, the building reverted to Government ownership, but Upward & Co. stayed on as tenants. On 12 January 1970 ownership of the building passed to the Sydney Cove Redevelopment Authority (SCRA). In 1972 the Authority commenced work on the staged conversion of the store to offices, galleries, shops and restaurants (SCRA 1972: CC/05). Plans for these works were carried out by architects Devine, Erby Mazlin, who also renovated Campbell's Stores at West Circular Quay, for the SCRA (ibid, 2015).

Amongst various modifications was a fitout for the Pancakes at the Rocks restaurant and for W Kennedy's Old Spaghetti Factory restaurant. Works associated with the fitout were situated on part of the lower ground floor, ground and first floors. A kitchen with large cool room and store were installed at the southern end of the ground floor, a new stair linking thsese with the restaurant above. New floors were introduced over existing flooring on the restaurant level and the floor was strengthened to support a feature tram car. Storage was situated in the lower ground floor. The Old Spaghetti Factory moved into the building in early 1973. It seems to have been an instant success and was even visited by international celebrities (for instance the 'Rolling Stones' English band were photographed in the tram in the restaurant in 1973). By the second half of 1988 the establishment was being touted as a venue for 'family fun' (ibid, 2015).

Further change to the building occurred in 1984. An arcade of part of the ground floor was documented early that year, and exteneded along the entire level to include a link to 86 George Street, necessitating a reduction in size of staff amenities area associated with the Old Spaghetti Factory, which occurred in 1984 or 1985. The restaurant kitchen was modified around the end of 1986 with a relocated cool room (ibid, 2015).

In 2011 Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority undertook extensive base works, including upgrading amenities, lifts, stairwells, toilets and building services (ibid, 2015).

[Archaeological History - The site formed part of Robert Campbell's garden from c1802-1870s. By the end of this period there is some evidence that stone was being quarried. A rough faced ashlar retaining wall is visible in the basement of the building along the George St frontage which may date to 1880s or earlier. Current Bond Store building constructed c1913. In 1970 the Sydney Cove Authority occupied part of the building].

Historic themes

Australian theme (abbrev)	New South Wales theme	Local theme
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Other open space-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Gardens-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Cultural - Coasts and coastal features supporting human activities-
1. Environment-Tracing the evolution of a continent's special environments	Environment - naturally evolved-Activities associated with the physical surroundings that support human life and influence or shape human cultures.	Changing the environment-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Office use-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Developing discrete retail and commercial areas-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Storing goods for bond and customs duties-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Commerce-Activities relating to buying, selling and exchanging goods and services	Maritime industry shipyards timber yards-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Developing local, regional and national economies-National Theme 3
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Environment - cultural landscape-Activities associated with the interactions between humans, human societies and the shaping of their physical surroundings	Landscapes of urban amenity-
3. Economy-Developing local, regional and national economies	Transport-Activities associated with the moving of people and goods from one place to another, and systems for the provision of such movements	Wharf and shipping history-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Building settlements, towns and cities-National Theme 4
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Accommodation-Activities associated with the provision of accommodation, and particular types of accommodation – does not include architectural styles – use the theme of Creative Endeavour for such activities.	Adapted heritage building or structure-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Changing land uses - from rural to suburban-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Resuming private lands for public purposes-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Resuming private lands for public purposes-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Land tenure-Activities and processes for identifying forms of ownership and occupancy of land and water, both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal	Changing land uses - from suburban to urban-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	20th Century infrastructure-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Shaping coastal settlement-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Developing ports-
4. Settlement-Building settlements, towns and cities	Towns, suburbs and villages-Activities associated with creating, planning and managing urban functions, landscapes and lifestyles in towns, suburbs and villages	Artists settlement and networks-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	State government-
7. Governing-Governing	Government and Administration-Activities associated with the governance of local areas, regions, the State and the nation, and the administration of public programs - includes both principled and corrupt activities.	Developing roles for government - administration of land-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Going to a cafe-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Tourism-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Visiting heritage places-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Going to a restaurant-
8. Culture-Developing cultural institutions and ways of life	Leisure-Activities associated with recreation and relaxation	Activities associated with relaxation and recreation-

Assessment of significance


SHR Criteria a) [Historical significance]	Metcalfe Bond Stores and site are of State heritage significance for their historical and scientific cultural values. The site and building are also of State heritage significance for their contribution to The Rocks area which is of State Heritage significance in its own right (see item no. 4500458).
SHR Criteria c) [Aesthetic significance]	The building known as the Metcalfe Bond Stores has simple unobtrusive lines with pleasing rhythm and texture. (Croker 1976) The building has landmark significance as part of a group of early 20th century buildings in George Street North complementing in scale, materials, façade treatment and fenestration the ASN Co Building, No 88 George Street, and the Harrington's Buildings, and being visible as a backdrop to Campbell's Stores from Campbell's Cove, Sydney Cove and Harbour, and Circular Quay East. Its conversion to shops and offices in 1973 also demonstrates attitudes to conservation philosophy and practice of the period as the first such conversion by the SCRA.
Integrity/Intactness:	Archaeology destroyed.
Assessment criteria:	Items are assessed against the State Heritage Register (SHR) Criteria to determine the level of significance. Refer to the Listings below for the level of statutory protection.

Recommended management:


	Above ground archaeological remains: No archaeological investigation is required. Below ground archaeological remains: No archaeological investigation is required

Procedures /Exemptions

Section of act	Description	Title	Comments	Action date
57(2)	Exemption to allow work	Standard Exemptions	HERITAGE ACT 1977 ORDER UNDER SECTION 57(2) TO GRANT STANDARD EXEMPTIONS FROM APPROVAL I, Penny Sharpe, the Minister for Heritage, on the recommendation of the Heritage Council of New South Wales and under section 57(2) of the Heritage Act 1977: revoke the order made on 2 June 2022 and published in the Government Gazette Number 262 of 17 June 2022; and grant an exemption from section 57(1) of the Act in respect of the engaging in or carrying out the class of activities described in clause 2 Schedule A in such circumstances specified by the relevant standards in clause 2 Schedule A and General Conditions in clause 3 Schedule A. This Order takes effect on the date it is published in the NSW Government Gazette. Dated this 29th day of October 2025 The Hon Penny Sharpe MLC Minister for Heritage For more information on standard exemptions click on the link below.	Nov 7 2025

Standard exemptions for engaging in or carrying out activities / works otherwise prohibited by section 57(1) of the Heritage Act 1977

Listings

Heritage Listing	Listing Title	Listing Number	Gazette Date	Gazette Number	Gazette Page
Heritage Act - State Heritage Register		01562	10 May 02	85	2865

Study details

Title	Year	Number	Author	Inspected by	Guidelines used
SCA Register 1979-1998	1998	B031, AR010	Sydney Cove Authority (SCA)		Yes

References, internet links & images

Type	Author	Year	Title	Internet Links
Tourism		2007	Metcalfe Bond Stores	View detail
Written	A Croker	1976	Classification Card - Metcalfe Store (Part of the George Street-Metcalfe Store Precinct)
Written	Architectural Projects Pty Ltd	2005	Conservation Management Plan - Metcalfe Bond Stores
Tourism	Attraction Homepage	2007	Metcalfe Bond Stores	View detail
Written	Higginbotham, Kass & Walker	1991	The Rocks and Millers Point Archaeological Management Plan
Written	SCRA	1981	Building Data Sheets CC/05 (1972) & CC/06 (1981)
Written	Wayne Johnson (SHFA)	2000	Written advice

Note: internet links may be to web pages, documents or images.

(Click on thumbnail for full size image and image details)

Data source


The information for this entry comes from the following source:
Name:	Heritage NSW
Database number:	5053177
File number:	EF14/5473; H03/265/1

Every effort has been made to ensure that information contained in the State Heritage Inventory is correct. If you find any errors or omissions please send your comments to the Database Manager.

All information and pictures on this page are the copyright of Heritage NSW or respective copyright owners.