Hey there, adventurer! You're now looking at the Atkinson & Powell Building. To help you spot it, look for a charming two-story building with a beautifully ornate facade. You should see three large arched windows on the second floor, flanked by columns, and a decorative balustrade on top. The front entrance on the ground floor is set between two display windows, and the entire façade is cream-colored with intricate detailing.
Now, let’s dive into the history!
The Atkinson & Powell Building is a heritage-listed former pharmacy located right here at 181-183 Flinders Street. This architectural gem was designed by Willoughby Powell and built back in 1887. Interestingly, it was initially created to house chemists Atkinson & Powell. The architect’s brother, a partner in the firm, must have received the family discount on design!
Townsville, founded in 1864, grew rapidly as the port started welcoming international ships by 1873. By the mid-1880s, Townsville was buzzing with construction, giving way to buildings made of stone, masonry, or metal, like this one.
Willoughby Powell’s only known work in North Queensland, this building originally boasted a large frontline shop and a back surgery room. Upstairs was a warehouse accessed by an outside stair and a small lift. Talk about a multi-purpose building!
The structure has seen various tenants throughout the years, from dentists and watchmakers to restaurants and offices. Its versatility kept it lively, earning it the nickname Matchbox Theatre for a spell!
A fun fact: a drawing of the completed building found its way into the Christmas issue of the Townsville Herald in 1887. Clearly, this place has been turning heads for quite some time!
Enjoy taking in the details and imagine the stories these walls could tell!
