As I wander around Fremantle I keep a keen eye out, wondering what I’ll find down unsuspecting lanes and alleyways.

Behind locked gates this Pakenham Street dwelling has intrigued me for some time, but here I was at last through the gates, wandering between the limestone wall of a converted stable and the pressed tin and brick of its newer companion.

Inner-city living doesn’t get any cuter than this tiny dwelling and I fell in love the minute I walked into the absolutely delightful courtyard garden. Raw limestone and rendered walls covered in a climbing ficus, planter boxes—one with a decent sized tree—and terracotta paving give this alfresco area a very Freo feel.

Slide the bolt on the solid metal gate and you’re in a world of your own.

It’s an uncomplicated world with this home comprised of a ground-floor living/dining/kitchen and an upstairs bedroom/bathroom.

A wall of steel and glass onto the courtyard makes the living area look and feel particularly spacious and light.

Steel girders hold up a white timber ceiling and huge copper pipes add to the industrial look and feel.

The kitchen is compact but not squeezy and there’s plenty of stainless steel bench tops, including an island/breakfast bar.

There’s no shortage of cupboards and drawers, and—in the European style—there’s even a washing machine tucked under the bench.

The bedroom is upstairs, where you’ll find room for a couch and a study nook, under a soaring cathedral ceiling.

With a wall of glass there’s no shortage of light, and a Juliet balcony gazes down the lane and across Fremantle roof tops.

All Fremantle has to offer is literally at your doorstep, whether it’s the cappuccino strip and its many cafes and restaurants, movies or nightclubs, or the lovely Bathers Beach—it’s all a stroll away. Sell the car, you can get everywhere by feet, bike, train or CAT bus.

Currently used for short-term accommodation, this is a good little earner, or a terrific home for a single or couple.

by JENNY D’ANGER

49 Pakenham Street, Fremantle
mid $600,000s
Lauri Curtain 0422 478 150
dethridgeGROVES
9336 1166
http://www.dethridgegroves.com.au