The architects of Customs House were Peter Kerr, with additional input by J.J. Clark and Arthur Ebden Johnson. Constructed between 1855 and 1876, its creation was a reflection of vastly expanded trade and soaring revenue from the goldrush, resulting in one of Melbourne's grand buildings. The museum's most important space, the Long Room, is a notable piece of Renaissance Revival architecture.[2]
The site was listed in 1948 as one of the key sites for the modernisation of Melbourne.[3] An 11 storey £750,000 Customs House office tower was proposed,[3] however did not proceed.