heritage conservation case study

Fremantle Limestone Workers Cottage

Fremantle, Western Australia 6160

location

overview

Architect
Unknown

Architectural Style
Victorian Georgian

Constructed
~1890

cultural importance

In the late 19th century, Fremantle, Western Australia, experienced significant growth, leading to the construction of numerous workers' cottages. These modest homes were primarily built using locally sourced limestone, a material abundant in the area. Early building regulations in the 1830s mandated the use of limestone in homes and walls to control sand drift, contributing to its widespread use in construction.

These cottages were designed to provide functional and affordable housing for the working-class population, reflecting the socio-economic conditions of the time.

The preservation of these cottages offers valuable insights into the living conditions and architectural practices of the late 19th and early 20th centuries in Fremantle. They stand as a testament to the city's rich history and the enduring legacy of its early inhabitants.

project team

Above: Fremantle limestone workers cottage post restoration works. Modernisations have been removed and the building is restored to its historic design.

A modernised, heritage cottage. All stonework has been rendered over, original windows and doors removed and a concrete verandah has been added.

Limestone Cottage modernisations - before restoration

The modernised limestone cottage, prior to heritage restoration works.

This heritage restoration in Fremantle is a great example of a traditional workers cottage, and represents a common scenario whereby the heritage of the building was completely hidden by mid-century modernisations.

When we came to this property it was completely rendered, the original door & windows had been replaced with unoriginal short door, plus and wide and low windows. A formed concrete slab veranda was added, supported by columns.

The project’s objective was to restored the home to its correct and original historic design.

Regal Heritage Restoration Works

This project required significant works to restore it to its original form.

  • Remove all render 

  • Remove windows 

  • Remove and demolish slab verandah 

  • Remove any old paint

  • Replace damaged bricks 

  • Joint out and remove mortar to appropriate depth from limestone 

  • Hand cut and relay limestone into voids left from removal of slab verandah 

  • Re-install traditional jarrah sash windows

  • Keying in hand cut limestone to voids left from wider windows

  • Rebuild brick quoins around newly installed windows 

  • Install stoop for door 

  • Install traditional door and rebuild quoins around door 

  • Rebuild window sills and render sills 

  • Application of repointing on all brick quoining 

  • Repointing of all limestone in a traditional lime based mortar

A man Reinstalling traditional jarrah sash windows on a heritage cottage
A man rebuilding brick quoins around the newly installed windows of a heritage cottage

Reinstalling traditional jarrah sash windows

Rebuilding brick quoins around newly installed windows 

A man preparing a doorway before reinstating a traditional door on a heritage cottage

Preparing the doorway before reinstating a traditional door

Heritage stonework cottage after the removal of render

Before and after resotration

Before masonry restoration

A heritage stonework cottage suring the process of brick and limestone restoration

After masonry restoration

A nearly fully restored heritage cottage

Project Reflections

Restoring heritage properties such as this, in Perth and Fremantle, has been an incredible privilege. Bringing these buildings back to their original state not only enhances the beauty of our suburbs but also adds significant value to the property. More importantly, proper restoration ensures the structural health of the building, prevents damp issues, and allows the walls to breathe.

Heritage restoration goes beyond cosmetic improvements—it requires a deep understanding of structural integrity. That’s why it’s essential to choose a company with expertise in heritage restoration and building stability.

Get in touch

If you’d like to learn more about the restoration process or discuss restoring your heritage home or building - reach out. Feel free to call, text, or email us for an obligation-free quote