THE gold boom was still a couple of years away when this Suffolk Street home was built, but judging by its gorgeous exterior, some 1800s Fremantle folk were already doing very well.

This Victorian/Georgian-style, five-bedroom abode, is one of four in a row, built between 1870–1886, and they’re all listed on the state heritage register.

Elegance and style are apparent at every turn in number 25, starting with the the limestone walls, rendered in Rottnest Island terracotta, and the reverse curved, bull-nosed verandah.

Rich jarrah floors, high ceilings, an abundance of fireplaces and deep skirting are found throughout the original section of the home, which contains four of the bedrooms.

There’s a formal lounge at the front that could become a sixth bedroom, as the rear extension is a sweeping space that would make a separate lounge redundant.

The thick limestone walls of the kitchen mark the end of the old home and the beginning of a rear extension.

Timber cupboards and an old Metters stove add to the country feel of this generous space, but there’s no shortage of modern amenity, not to mention a sweep of timber bench tops.

The massive open-plan is impressive, with golden-hued pine panelling on the walls, and a curved ceiling and floor.

And you can slide back the floor-to-ceiling bifold doors to take in an expansive verandah that is ideal for alfresco dining, just about all year round.

The main bedroom has a dressing room and a generous modern ensuite with a deep bath and separate shower.

Above the two-car garage is a studio apartment, which is ideal for guests, whether paying or not, or as a teenage retreat.

A slice of Fremantle’s history, this fantastic home is walking distance to the Freo markets and the CBD.

by JENNY D’ANGER

25 Suffolk Street, Fremantle
$1.795 million
Mark Brophy
0403 382 555
Denise Muir
0419 932 302
Mark Brophy Estate Agent
9335 9800