Down the ocean end of South Street on the South Freo border, a 1902 original has all the precious historic features: jarrah floors, high ceilings, cast iron decorative details, tuck-pointed brick, fireplaces, and large rooms within thick limestone walls. Then comes the new: an amazing gourmet kitchen where no expense has been spared to satisfy the most demanding chef, a bar opening to alfresco dining, and another shady alfresco area for lounging around the outdoor kitchen and firing up the pizza oven. It’s all made for entertaining and family gatherings, in a walkable location near the Fishing Boat Harbour, between South Beach and Fremantle centre.
A high limestone and iron wall and shady greenery create seclusion, and the traditional jarrah veranda leads to the central hall. Three generous, high-ceilinged bedrooms all have built-in storage, fireplaces with cast iron inserts, and a touch of glamour in the quality contemporary light fittings found throughout the home. The sense of space continues in the large living room, with a working fireplace and a beautiful marble surround that hints at the luxury to come. Step through to a bright contemporary space where walls of glass stack open to the north. Three automatic skylights add to the sense of openness, and the kitchen is spectacular: waterfall island in marble-effect stone, black inset sinks, Smeg induction cooktop, two Smeg wall ovens and a warming oven, mirror splashbacks, highest quality integrated Liebherr fridge/freezer, extensive touch-opening cabinetry, and sophisticated Blum storage systems. The bathroom is just as beautifully done, with a double vanity topped in marble.
Outdoor entertaining is as good as it gets, and the expansive alfresco is made for total comfort: automatic blinds, awning, overhead heating and ceiling fans. Another wall of glass stacks open to the bar/butler’s pantry, with lit cabinetry and a TV mounting so you can settle in outside to watch the game. There’s even more party space at the bottom of the garden, with a lounge area incorporating a brilliant outdoor kitchen in granite and stainless steel.
The practicalities have been well-considered too: reverse-cycle air-conditioning, solar power, automatic gates to the parking space, wifi security camera, and extensive storage space in the attic, accessed by remote control drop-down steps.
Take in the historic atmosphere, and enjoy the luxurious transformation – all in a fantastic location by the coast.
• 1902 stone home, luxurious extension • Excellent outdoor entertaining, two alfresco areas • Amazing gourmet kitchen of finest quality • North-facing glass wall stacks open to outdoors • Bar/butler’s pantry also opens to entertaining space • Large original rooms, historic features, fireplaces • Beautiful bathroom, jarrah floors, high ceilings • Automatic drop-down stairs to attic storage • Secluded behind high stone and iron wall • Solar power, reverse-cycle air-conditioning, outdoor loo • Gated off-street parking plus verge parking
Council rates: $2,054.78 per annum (approx) Water rates: $1,344.74 per annum (approx)