Menora was designed on the principles of the garden suburb, and thus incorporated green streets, parks within walking distance of all residents and a curvilinear street system. As Menora was developed over a relatively extended period, it has a varied residential character.
The suburb contains a large number of character homes, with many buildings having significant heritage and cultural value. Architectural styles range from Californian bungalow to art-deco, post-war and international-style.
The dwellings are predominantly single detached residences on large lots and are generally of brick construction. Adair Parade contains the only significant agglomeration of unit developments. Many homes in Menora have recently been restored, allowing Menora to retain its unique character.
Menora contains some commercial ribbon development along Walcott Street, which allows local residents to access retail services. The suburb features a large number of public open space reserves and several pocket parks. These are used primarily for passive recreation, with the exception of a tennis centre in Alexander Park.
Saint Paul's Primary School is located to the south east of Menora and the area also contains several homes for senior citizens. A Jewish synagogue was opened on Plantation Street in 1973 and remains a significant spiritual focus for Perth's Jewish community.
Menora contains 12 local open spaces, one community open space and one district open space.
Heritage markers
As an example of the character style in Menora, this house on Walcott Street, is a single storey dwelling displaying elements of Federation Bungalow style. It is located on a corner block, set back from the street behind a high limestone retaining wall and timber picket fence.
The dwelling is constructed from brick, tuck-pointed on both street facades, and a hipped and gabled tile roof with scrolled finials. A full width return verandah is incorporated under the main roof and is supported on square timber posts over limestone piers. There are timber-framed casement windows in a variety of configurations.
The place has aesthetic value as a good example of its architectural style and for its contribution to the historic streetscape.