Summary : An architect who developed the black and white style of the Vernacular Revival with enthusiasm was Thomas Edwards. Together with his partner W H Kelly, Edwards took over James Harrison's practice on his death in 1866. Edwards was responsible for 55 Bridge Street, built as an art gallery for David Sherratt in 1899. It has an exuberant facade, incorporating jettying, carved timber panels in the manner of Bishop Lloyd's Palace, and a statue of Charles I. The elaborate wrought iron hanging sign is contemporary with the building. The brick and stone undercroft of a former town house is probably 18th century, and retains large-scantling bridging joists that support the Row storey. The interior at Row level and above are little altered and contain tall top-lit galleries for the displaying of painting and other works of art. Now an undercroft shop and two storey Row shop. |