The "Modernisation" of Heritage buildings in Fremantle
They came,
They saw,
They concreted.
A modernised, Fremantle heritage home - before Regal Heritage Restoration works.
There was a time in Perth and Fremantle—particularly from the 1940s to the 1990s—when heritage homes were considered outdated, unsightly, and sometimes associated with poverty. With little to no regulations around the conservation of heritage properties, many were demolished, while others were modernised, often in ways that altered their original character.
This trend of modernising heritage homes was especially popular among European migrants, and many examples of these modifications can still be found throughout Fremantle today.
What Are Examples of Heritage Home Modernisation?
Replacing traditional sash windows with lower, wider modern windows
Removing bullnose verandahs and replacing them with concrete slab verandahs
Shortening doors and removing stained glass side panels
Rendering over exterior heritage walls
Replacing tin or zinc roofs with modern tiles
Removing chimneys
Covering timber floorboards with carpet
Removing decorative mouldings and render bands
Replacing timber verandah decking with concrete slabs
While these modifications may have been fashionable at the time, they often led to long-term issues. For example, cement renders can trap moisture, causing rising damp and accelerating the decay of brick and limestone walls.
Thankfully, times have changed. Today, we recognize the value of our heritage homes and buildings, appreciating their history, craftsmanship, and unique character. Heritage protection laws now safeguard these properties, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
How Do We Restore Heritage Homes to Their Original State?
At Regal Heritage Restoration, a significant portion of our work involves reversing modern alterations and restoring homes to their original aesthetic and structural integrity. Our restoration processes include:
Removing external cement render and replacing it with traditional lime-based render
Removing concrete slab verandahs and reinstating bullnose verandahs
Replacing modern windows with jarrah sash windows
Restoring doors to their original size with glass or leadlight side panels
Rebuilding chimneys and gables that were removed or concealed
Repairing or replacing damaged bricks and limestone
Repointing brickwork using traditional lime mortar
Removing paint from masonry surfaces
Rebuilding window and door archways
Reapplying render bands and decorative mouldings
Applying tuckpointing to restore the original brickwork aesthetic
Today, we celebrate the beauty and history of heritage homes and buildings. You might be surprised at how many heritage homes in Perth and Fremantle are still hidden beneath layers of cement render—just waiting to be restored to their former glory.
Works near completion on the above modernised, Fremantle heritage cottage.
Heritage restoration services in Perth, WA
If you’re interested in restoring your heritage home or building in Perth, Regal Heritage Restoration specializes in all aspects of masonry restoration, including:
Brick and limestone repairs
Chimneys and chimney pots
Vents
Bullnose verandah installation
Heritage feature walls
Lintel repairs and replacements