61 Forrest Street, Fremantle WA 6160

A century after this weatherboard cottage was built, the beauty and functionality of its transformation was celebrated by the Australian Institute of Architects WA with the award for alterations and additions. Fluid spaces connect to the back garden, an angled roof form embraces high northern windows for the light and sky, and fine bespoke cabinetry in blackbutt and mountain ash forms part of the structural flow of the building. The original cottage is respected, and the extension beyond is serene, with an air of both sophistication and simplicity. A wide native garden verge and a tree-lined street create a lovely setting, with parks, fine local schools, and the restaurants and boutiques of George Street all a walk away.

Behind the limestone and picket fence, perfect lawn and gardens frame the impeccably restored cottage and north-facing veranda. Blackbutt floors flow in two original bedrooms, one with extensive built-in robes and both with the northern aspect to the front garden.
Beyond is the extension, where living, dining and kitchen are oriented to the rear courtyard.
Floors are polished concrete, and refined use of timber define the spaces and provides extensive storage, as cabinetry wraps around from the living to the kitchen and beyond. In the dining area, timber seating upholstered in soft green velvet enjoys the courtyard outlook. An island bench in pale Caesarstone is at the centre of the finely equipped kitchen, where stackable windows enhance the inside-outside feeling, acting as a servery for entertaining. The master bedroom is cleverly secluded, and the en-suite has a circular shower and dual access from the laundry behind the kitchen. Another bright white bathroom features handmade white tiling, bath, floating vanity, frameless glass shower and mirrored storage.

A feeling of serenity and privacy continues in the rear garden, flowing from the open-plan through a glass pivot door to a paved dining area, lawn, lit garden, and a limestone and timber shed. A side gate leads to the shared driveway, and there is verge parking for two cars.

This is a friendly street and a strong community, ready to welcome the new neighbours privileged to enjoy this beautiful combination of historic worker’s cottage and the award-winning work of local architect Philip Stejskal.

• 1920 timber cottage with very fine renovation and addition
• Extensive bespoke cabinetry in blackbutt and mountain ash
• Full of natural light, seamless indoor outdoor flow
• Floors of blackbutt and polished concrete, beautiful bathrooms
• Air-conditioned, keypad entry, sophisticated lighting systems
• Masses of storage, elegantly concealed
• Finely equipped kitchen: Caesarstone, mosaic tiling, stackable windows
• Soundproofing between front bedroom zone and open-plan
• Private rear garden, outdoor dining area, stone and timber shed
• Gardens beautifully designed, reticulated, thriving natives on wide verge
• New underpass at end of street; walk to park, schools, George Street
• Winner architectural award for residential addition/alteration
• Off street parking available for two cars


Council rates: $1,400 per annum (approx)
Water rates: $1,288.21 per annum (approx)