11 Forrest Street, Fremantle WA 6160

A charming tuckpointed brick and iron 1905 home is set behind a wide verge and productive gardens, with little hint of what lies beyond. An expansive extension offers open plan living, leading to an elevated terrace walled by glass and corten steel. Below is the saltwater pool, sitting above a series of secluded garden zones complete with gazebo, chicken coop, guinea pig enclosure, garden shed, veggie beds, fruit trees, and a cubby in the mulberry tree. There’s another surprise on the home’s lower level: a massive four-car garage, workshop zone and storage area, as well as a bathroom for post-pool showers. Up top, the attic room is another bonus. On a big block in the community hub by Horrie Long Park and a short walk to East Fremantle Primary and John Curtin, this solar-powered family home is full of individuality and masses of flexible space for everyone.

Beyond the gum tree and olive tree on the verge and behind the white limestone wall, mulberry, macadamia, lime and orange trees surround the grapevine arbour that leads to the north-facing veranda. An unusual tuckpointed brick archway is among the treasured historic features, leading to a wide hallway and jarrah floors. Two large original bedrooms face the veranda, and the hall opens to the living room with working fireplace. Another fireplace has been retained in the contemporary bathroom adjacent, for indulging in winter baths by the fire.

Beyond is the world of the new: vast bamboo-floored open plan living and dining, with a wide stone island in the kitchen, as well as stainless steel benchtops and appliances. The master bedroom has a walk-in-robe, wall of storage and a modern ensuite, and you can step out to the terrace above the pool. It’s all light and bright, with a lovely green aspect over the treetops.

Stairs lead down to the laundry and another bathroom, with handy exterior access, next to the huge garage and workshop. There’s additional verge parking and a carport out front. The jarrah-floored attic room offers even more space for an additional living or work zone.

Near the park, the river and George Street, there is a special atmosphere in this home and gardens: you feel you’re living in the country while the centre of town is a walk away.

• 1905 classic with vast contemporary living and pool
• Elevated alfresco, two living areas plus large attic room
• Expansive kitchen in engineered stone and stainless steel
• Captivating garden spaces with city farm atmosphere
• Gazebo, chicken coop, fruit trees, veggies, cubby
• Charming tuckpointed exterior, north-facing veranda
• Massive 4-car garage with workshop and storage zone
• Additional off-street parking and carport
• Third bathroom downstairs with exterior access
• Solar power, wine cellar
• Reverse-cycle aircon, fans, fireplaces
• Walk to town, river, George Street, schools, park