The exterior view of Ruthven Mansions

Ruthven Mansions

Ruthven Mansions is historically and architecturally significant because when first built, it represented a benchmark in luxury accommodation in Australia.

The Mansions were fitted with all the 'mod cons' of the time —central vacuum cleaning, automated doors, mechanical ventilation, electric lights and electric lifts— and were among the earliest of Australia's multi-storey apartments.

The apartments were first built in two stages (1911–1912 and circa 1914) and later sold to the state government in 1954, rapidly falling into disrepair.

By 1976, the buildings had lost their distinctive balconettes, the interior had been declared unsafe and the chest clinic that occupied the ground floor had relocated to a new premises.

After lengthy negotiations in the late 1970s, the buildings were saved from demolition and renovated internally and partially externally to resemble their original form.

These days, Ruthven Mansions is more commonly known as 'La Loft Apartments – Mansions on Pulteney', providing stylish hotel-quality serviced accommodation ideal for overseas, interstate or out-of-town guests upstairs, and a shopping arcade with food and retail outlets on the ground floor.

The iconic Adelaide Arcade boasts its very own museum, showcasing its colourful and extensive history.

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For nearly 150 years, Adelaide Oval has been regarded as one of the most picturesque sporting grounds in the world. It is a South Australian icon, and one of the most advanced, state-of-the-art outdoor venues in Australia.

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For over 150 years, the South Australian Museum has been committed to making Australia's natural and cultural heritage accessible, engaging and fun and is one of the most visited museums in Australia.

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Do you know what fritz, FruChocs or frog cakes are? You will after joining this short and sweet tour, full of local treats!

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