I COULD have walked across Jakarta harbour on its sea of plastic and other rubbish when I was there.
Standing on the elevated front steps of this Doepel Street, North Fremantle home, looking over the crystal clear Swan River, the contrast came to mind.
The old traffic bridge and Fremantle harbour’s cranes are mere metres away but the Swan sparkled so cleanly I could count the seaweed-covered rocks stretching into deeper water and the undulations of the sandy bottom.
Most summer days the vendor steps out of his front door, crosses the grassy foreshore and dives straight in. A triathlete, he reckons it’s like having his own gym on the doorstep.
With its interesting architectural shapes and gracious curves, this is my favourite of the Northbank apartments.
This three-bedroom/two-bathroom abode didn’t disappoint, offering the grandeur of yesteryear in a thoroughly modern package spanning four levels on 384sqm.
The ground floor houses a spacious study, with built-in jarrah shelving and a three-car garage (or two cars and a heap of storage).
The living areas on the second level are divided into a spacious formal lounge/dining and an informal version, plus kitchen, with honey-coloured blackbutt floors flowing between the two.
A rear balcony off the formal living area has been turned into a rumpus room.
The partial alsynite roof and picture windows create an indoor/outdoor space for the kids to play no matter what the weather.
The informal areas have a huge balcony overlooking the river, harbour and both traffic bridges.
Take breakfast on the terrace as the river comes alive with boats on any weekend—and chances are you’ll catch dolphins cruising by.
Invite the gang around for a barbie, or whip up something a little more cordon bleu in the commodious kitchen, with its walk-in pantry.
The third floor’s main bedroom overlooks the river with lovely white, timber shutters to keep out the summer sun.
Tucked under the eaves in an attic eyrie is the third bedroom.
With super-high ceilings and room for a couch as well as a bed it would make a great teenage retreat.
There’s no shortage of shops and eateries on nearby Queen Victoria Street or, a bit further afield in Freo, East Freo and Mosman Park.
by JENNY D’ANGER
2/12 Doepel Street,
North Fremantle
Offers
Nathan Hewitt | 0411 695 313
Yard Property | 9339 3884