Louisa Street Residence.
Old soul, new spirit.
Fremantle, Western Australia
2021
In South Fremantle, this sustainable home renovation brings heritage charm into modern life. Behind a simple weatherboard cottage lies a quietly surprising home, part restoration and part reinvention. The project balances respect for history with a clear step toward the future. Heritage at the front, party at the back, with a touch of Freo attitude for good measure.
Project Team
Client: Private
Location: South Fremantle, Western Australia
Size: 110m2 addition + renovation
Architect: Tim Pardoe
Photography: Ricky Gestro
Interior Design: Jane Agnew
Builder: Peter Bell Constructions
Structural Engineer: Burdett + Goodison
Heritage and Renewal
The original cottage was fully restored, with new roof, fresh paint and careful detailing to bring back its modest beauty. Beyond it, a new addition opens to light and garden. The contrast is deliberate and honest, old and new in dialogue, each celebrating what the other is not.
— Louisa Street Clients
“Tim is innovative and creative, with a keen eye for detail. Working with him, even remotely, is a pleasure, and we highly recommend him and his work. Thank you, for helping us create such a beautiful home.”
Courtyard of Light
At the heart of the plan stands an olive tree too loved to lose. The design builds around it, creating a central courtyard that draws morning light deep into the home. Shade in the heat, glow in the morning, this simple garden becomes the true living room of the house. Even the old bricks from the shed found a second life here, reborn as courtyard pavers.
Sustainable Thinking and Craft
Every design decision focused on reuse, reduction and refined sustainable construction. The compact footprint makes space for gardens rather than more house. Reclaimed materials and a restrained palette of white, black, concrete and warm timber tie the old and new together. Careful carpentry gives the project its quiet richness, proof that sustainability can be as much about attitude as technology.
Collaboration and Continuation
Great projects come from a great team. Builder Peter Bell, engineer Darren Goodison and interior designer Jane Agnew each brought care and character to the project. With both stages now complete, Louisa Street Residence stands as a calm, light-filled sustainable home that grows from its place and honours its heritage.