ARRIBA! When I saw the little centenarian at 15 Gold Street I was expecting a classically rustic home with cream walls and antique furniture. But this little cottage had more to do with the gold rush than I thought.

When I stepped into the main living area I had to think for a minute if I had just flown 16,0000km and landed in a traditional Mexican village.

The small kitchen is located in a corner of the open living area and it is the essence of what I imagine a Mexican kitchen to be.
Cupboards are painted in shiny colours, as are the shelves. The old stove gap is used as a storage space for plates and glasses.

I can already smell fajitas and quesadillas and hear the bubbling of some frijoles boiling in a large pot. Spicy!

I could imagine rustic decorations on the shelves and cupboards as well as some freshly cut vegies laying on the bench ready for cooking by a mamasita.

The kitchen is separated from the dining area by two levels, accessed through a geometrical arch and a couple of steps.

The dining area retains the central American look, with big windows facing the spacious backyard and matching furniture.

This is a cosy area, perfect for family dinners and relaxed evenings’ reading.

The bedrooms are huge, and have a great garden view facing Gold Street. They’ve kept the 100-years-old doors and have their own fireplaces.

My favourite area however is the backyard. Tucked between neighbouring houses it matches the private and quiet spirit of the street.

There is an alfresco dining area under a rustic verandah — which could do with vines to complete the effect — perfect for enjoying cold drinks and homemade meals during long summer nights. There’s even a little pond with a couple of coloured fish and a charming blue door to the neighbour’s house.

This space breathes peace and I can’t imagine stress to be compatible with its fruit trees, the running sound of water and the colourful lightbulbs hanging from the verandah. A complete delight! Put on the flamenco music and party, guys!

The ultimate feature, however, is the quirky little kids’ cabin. Instead of a traditional boarded house with a cute angled ceiling, this lovely cottage has its own boat! Built around an old tree, it has its own steering wheel and all the gear to “set sails” to nearby South Beach.

This is definitely a unique one-in-a-million home in one of the loveliest, more family-oriented areas of South Freo.

by MARTA PASCUAL JUANOLA

15 Gold St, South Fremantle
$910,000
Mark Brophy Estate Agent
Mark Brophy 0403 382 555