Dearle’s a pearl

THE first thing I utter entering the backyard of this Hamilton Hill home is “wow”.

You’d never guess what a treasure this 1960s house is looking just at the front.

The front yard may be a time capsule from decades ago but everything beyond the side gate has been completely overhauled.

Vendor and textile designer/artist Kelsey Ashe played Herald tour guide: she explains she and her creative husband have been slowly renovating for eight years.

My favourite part is the art studio—a large building separate from the house that could easily be a guest room, teen retreat, office, gym or all of the above.

“It’s a really inspiring space,” Ms Ashe says.

“The morning and dusk light pours into the studio and it’s just so pleasant to be in here.” The studio has an air-conditioner and is wired for internet.

Past the fully reticulated and landscaped garden is a cubby house, play area and alfresco dining area— perfect for families with young kids.

The garden is a delight with elephant ear plants and sweet smells from honeysuckle and frangipani blossoms.

I imagine my child self getting hands dirty and plucking daisies and geraniums on an outdoor adventure.

Through the French doors, jarrah timber floors stretch to almost every corner of the double-brick, three-bedroom house.

Ms Ashe says the property offers attractive investment prospects. You could subdivide to create two, or even three, street fronts. The only catch is a two-storey house must be set on one of the lots.