Charles Bohringer (1891-1962) was born in Basel, Switzerland, graduating from its technical school, the Munich Art School and holding diplomas from the University of Zurich. 

After qualifying as an architect, he came to Australia in 1914, at the outbreak of World War I, as did many Europeans fleeing the conflict.  

He developed a reputation as a “leading theatre specialist”. 

He designed and constructed more than 200 theatres. Some of his principal buildings included the Ambassadors Theatre, Perth, State Theatre, Melbourne, Civic Theatre, Auckland, Mayfair Theatre and Enmore Theatres, Sydney, Mosman’s Kinema Theatre and numerous theatres for Hoyts. 

He also designed a triptych of apartment buildings in 1939 at 10A-10C Challis Avenue, Potts Point. 

10A is named “Esquire” (12 studios and six one-bedroom apartments) perhaps indicating its intended use for gentry. 

10B is “The Clift and 10C is “Gloucester Hall”, comprising 24 apartments with four two-bedroom, 12 one-bedroom and eight bedsitter apartments. 

All are four storeys in red brick with walk-up stairs to their entrance foyers. 

Peter Sheridan’s book “Sydney: Art Deco and Modernist Walks” notes their Art deco characteristics.  

The facades may seem austere but in 1939 when they built, labour and materials were in short supply as the government requisitioned supplies in the lead up to World War II. 

 Challis Avenue, a delightful avenue, is on the Register of the National Trust of Australia (NSW) and noted for its central plantings of Magnolia grandiflora with their dinner plate size white flowers.  

“Sydney: Art Deco and Modernist Walks” by Dr Peter Sheridan AM  

Available Potts Point Book Shop, 14 Macleay Street, phone 9331 6642 cost $20–00 

By Andrew Woodhouse  

Heritage Solutions