23 King William St, South Fremantle WA 6162

Built at the end of the 1800s two blocks from the Sailing Club, this stone home is an early Freo treasure with unexpected assets: rear access to a vast garage and studio space full of possibility. A stroll away from the South Terrace strip of cafes and restaurants, it's renovated, extended and opened up for indoor-outdoor living. There's even a pool for summer, or you can just walk or cycle down to the beach.

Vines cascade over the front wall, and the north-facing bullnose veranda and leadlight entry leads to the classic interior: jarrah floors, high skirtings and grand Oregon double windows. The four rooms off the central hallway are all large, with lofty ceilings, offering three bedrooms, including the master bedroom with walk-in-robe and sleek contemporary en-suite. One of the original rooms has been converted into a vast bathroom, warmed by a gas log fire with ornate timber surround.

Beyond is the expansive open-plan, with a limestone rubble wall, fireplace and rustic timber beam blending with the home's history. High northern windows run the length of the space to welcome the light to this wonderfully liveable contemporary zone. The family kitchen is generous and practical: big island bench, 5-burner stainless steel range, walk-in pantry and mosaic splashbacks. Living and dining opens to the large alfresco by the pool, with the feel of an outdoor room for all-weather entertaining, and the handy original outdoor loo nearby.