Rarely offered and truly exceptional, this classic 1920s worker's cottage has been reimagined by Philip Stejskal Architecture into an award-winning contemporary residence. Combining original weatherboards with rich timber, steel, brick and rammed concrete, the elevated home captures iconic views while delivering warmth, functionality and architectural distinction on one of North Fremantle's most tightly held streets.
Celebrated for its design excellence, the residence received top honours at the WA Architecture Awards and the ArchiTeam Awards for its sensitive restoration and striking contemporary addition.
From the street, the restored cottage presents with a wide verandah framed by lush landscaping, Irish strawberry trees and Donnybrook sandstone hardscaping, including a sculptural carved seat with bespoke upholstered cushions. Inside, original Jarrah floors have been preserved, while two generous front bedrooms have been renovated with custom spotted gum cabinetry and integrated Jarrah desks, offering abundant storage and flexibility for families or guests.
At the rear, the former lean-to has been replaced by Stejskal's contemporary addition. A substantial bathroom with custom concrete benches marks the transition between old and new. The elevated extension unfolds across three split levels that respond to the natural slope of the site. Despite its scale, connection is maintained through carefully considered sightlines, while distinct zones allow privacy ideal for family living, entertaining or multi-generational households.
Open-plan living is both refined and functional. Handcrafted Italian tiles and burnished concrete floors ground the expansive kitchen and dining domain, illuminated by a suspended custom track light. A five-metre white dolomite island anchors the space, paired with a Wolf gas cooktop and integrated European appliances. A generous walk-in pantry and concealed storage ensure the aesthetic remains composed and uncluttered.
Large sliding doors open to a north-facing courtyard centred around a Pink Crepe Myrtle. Landscaped with a fire feature and custom daybed seating, it accommodates everyday living as effortlessly as summer gatherings. Rising above, an observatory tower captures sweeping views across East Fremantle, the Port and ocean glimpses an elevated retreat for sunset drinks. Flexible spaces adjacent to the kitchen and lookout adapt easily as play areas, sitting rooms or additional dining zones.
The upper level forms a private adults' retreat wrapped in rich spotted gum. Skylights and highlight windows invite natural light, while timber louvres frame North Fremantle's distinctive outlook from cliff-top homes to working port cranes and glimpses of sea. The oversized ensuite in Italian limestone, walk-in robe, lambswool carpets and bespoke cabinetry create a restorative, private sanctuary.
Descending the custom steel staircase reveals further architectural depth. Lined in rammed concrete and custom parged brick referencing North Fremantle's limestone heritage the lower living space is intimate yet connected. Opening to a fragrant rear garden planted with Hong Kong Orchids, Ylang-Ylang and Frangipani, this zone is equally suited to entertaining, relaxation or cinema nights behind linen curtains. A fully timber-lined study sits alongside, offering a quiet garden-facing retreat.
Practicality is seamlessly integrated. The lower level includes an expansive laundry with concrete benchtops, a custom copper hanging rail and extensive storage. It connects to a drop zone, outdoor shower for post-beach rinses, and a generous undercroft garage accommodating two cars, bikes and additional storage an ideal arrival point after school or weekend adventures.
Sustainability underpins the design, with passive solar orientation, cross-ventilation, operable screens and thermal mass enhancing year-round comfort. Hydronic underfloor heating, rainwater tanks, solar-ready infrastructure and point-of-use electric hot water contribute to efficiency and liveability.
Lighting and automation are thoughtfully integrated. Concealed strip lighting beneath cabinetry and within the steel stair handrail complements recessed architectural fixtures. Lighting, blinds, louvres, audio and security are managed via a Control4 smart home system.
Positioned between river and sea, this address offers the essence of North Fremantle living. Leighton and Port Beaches are minutes away by bike, while local cafés, restaurants, schools and transport are all within easy reach. Morning coffee at Ooh, burgers at Flipside or an evening at Mrs Brown are part of everyday life here.
More than an award-winning residence, this is a home designed for longevity where architectural excellence and family life exist in balance. It presents a rare opportunity for design-conscious buyers, young families or downsizers seeking substance, privacy and enduring quality in one of North Fremantle's most desirable locations.
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