Shopping in Melbourne, sightseeing and exploring the fabulous factories and warehouses will make any visitor knowledgeable on this most livable city in the world. The Block Arcade situated at 282 Collins St, Melbourne 3000 would make the experience sustainable with the wonderful insight it provides of the 19th century Victorian architecture of commercial buildings.
The arcade was constructed in two sections in 1891 and 1893 by designer D.C. Askew for the financier Benjamin Fink. The building with a glass roof, iron and timber supports, and the largest mosaic floor area in Australia to be found at its centre, is also classified by the National Trust and is found on the register of the National Estate. The L-shaped shopping arcade with its original timber entrance will lure in any visitor to the area. Having existed since the age of the fashionable Melbournians who would parade in their finest dresses, suits, hats and accessories along Collins Street and Elizabeth Street, the arcade has derived its name from the expression "doing the block". It forms a small lane connecting Collins Street and Little Collins Street and Elizabeth Street on the West.
Inside the Block Arcade one may find small colourful cafes and coffee shops, which are frequented by travelers. The Little Collins Street laneway entrance to the arcade is lined with an eclectic range of shops. The intricate dome at the centre would instantly transport the visitor to the era when parasol wielding ladies and bowler hatted gentleman strolled by. Hopetoun Tearooms, is one of the most famous venues inside the arcade.
After hanging out and enjoying a shopping spree at the Block Arcade, a stay at the Somerset on Elizabeth Melbourne will surely be refreshing and comforting. Thisluxury serviced residence in Melbourne is located in the Metropolitan area with a fusion of enthralling shops around it. Bourke Street Mall, David Jones, DFO, GPO and Melbourne Central Myer Department Store, are all just a short stroll away. Being a Melbourne serviced apartment known for its many leisure facilities, Somerset on Elizabeth has on offer a sauna and a gymnasium, and swim spa, to suit the needs of every visitor.
About the Author:
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
Author: Pushpitha Wijesinghe