18 King William St, South Fremantle WA 6162

Within thick stone walls and with magical meandering gardens beyond, the sense of seclusion here makes it hard to believe that the vibrant South Freo street life and the beach are only a stroll away. Lined with period homes, King William is one of the finest streets in the neighbourhood, where this substantial home has stood since the 1890s. Verge plantings of lavender, roses, peppermint, poinciana and frangipani frame the white picket fence, with more courtyard gardens creating a colourful setting for the classic exterior of limestone and brick. Large rooms, high ceilings and jarrah floors are among the traditional features, with flexible living areas, a splendid kitchen, and an expansive northern alfresco leading to a series of garden spaces that unfold in the most enchanting way.

The wide arched hallway leads to three grand rooms, including one as an elegant living room, with a timber-framed fireplace and a pair of stained glass windows. The home opens out to the kitchen/dining, combining the traditional with the contemporary: waterfall island bench in jarrah, lots of white cabinetry and a black Falcon range. Beyond is the bathroom, and a sunroom with French doors to the alfresco - the northern aspect makes this flexible room one of the favourite spots in the house. Up a ladder stair, a room with built-in storage and a lofty green outlook is an inspiring place for an office.

A rear lobby has more French doors to the outside, where a jarrah deck offers ample space for lounging and dining, with a timber kitchenette and laundry area. Despite the brilliant big kitchen inside, it's tempting to cook and eat outdoors and enjoy the gardens, which are such a beautiful feature of this property. Low walls of limestone frame a series of garden 'rooms' revealed as you walk through the leafy environment, with just the sounds of the birds and cascading water. To help with the sustainable gardening, you'll find a composting toilet and a large shed at the rear.