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Stepping back in time

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Erick LopezThe West Australian
105 Darlington Road, Darlington. 
Camera Icon105 Darlington Road, Darlington.  Credit: Anthony Tran/Supplied.

A slice of Western Australian history named the Deepdene, 105 Darlington Road is perfect for the traditionalists and lovers of early 20th century federation-style homes.

105 Darlington Road is perfect for the traditionalists and lovers of early 20th century federation-style homes.
Camera Icon105 Darlington Road is perfect for the traditionalists and lovers of early 20th century federation-style homes. Credit: Anthony Tran/Supplied.

Nestled within the natural and almost magical bushland of Darlington in the Perth Hills, first impressions of the property will send you back in time to life in the early 1900s, with mature and rich plant life bordering the driveway complementing the overall collectors-item feel of the home.

The current owners bought the home in 1994 and are well aware of its historical significance throughout the last century. At one point in the 60s it was occupied by entrepreneurs Robert and Janet Holmes a Court.

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At one point in the 60s the home was occupied by entrepreneurs Robert and Janet Holmes a Court.
Camera IconAt one point in the 60s the home was occupied by entrepreneurs Robert and Janet Holmes a Court. Credit: Anthony Tran/Supplied.

“The two-storey home is beautifully constructed with what is widely considered the ultimate building material – multi-hued, local granite,” the owners said, pointing to the masterpiece of the facade joined with decorative cast iron balustrading and a staircase synonymous with the federation era.

“Built in 1915 the home sits on one of the most prized pieces of land in Darlington. It is at the base of the hill and is one of a small collection of buildings in local granite stone.”

The four-bedroom, two-bathroom home has received some updating over the years, with the current owners describing the last major works as a “no-expense-spared extension” to perfectly match the old and new parts of the home.

Contemporary and heritage elements blend seamlessly throughout.
Camera IconContemporary and heritage elements blend seamlessly throughout. Credit: Anthony Tran/Supplied.

“A surprising aspect of the extension added in 1987 is that many people don’t even realise there has been an extension,” they said. “The roofline continues, the ceiling height continues, even the local granite walls continue, as does the extra-wide verandah and cast iron balustrade.

“At that same time the original build was re-roofed, rewired, re-plumbed, re-plastered and insulated, and the large centrally located kitchen has since been renewed.”

The home has been extensively renovated over the years.
Camera IconThe home has been extensively renovated over the years. Credit: Anthony Tran/Supplied.

The entrance of the home is one which has to been seen to be completely appreciated – guests climb the spiralling staircase and enter through the front door where they are met with wandoo timber flooring and an incredible feeling of history, especially as they walk through the lounge and dining room with a gorgeous fireplace.

The kitchen proves how well modern and traditional styles can complement each other to create a standout space full of creativity. The owners said they enjoyed the central location of the kitchen, as it provided a good separation of the parents’ and junior wings of the home.

Large windows which go over part of the ceiling mean endless views of the sky and trees outside.
Camera IconLarge windows which go over part of the ceiling mean endless views of the sky and trees outside. Credit: Anthony Tran/Supplied.

Large windows which go over part of the ceiling mean endless views of the sky and trees outside while doing the dishes, which adds a unique feature, as well as providing plenty of lighting to the area.

The extra-wide verandah which borders around the front and sides of the home creates a unique outdoor living space with plenty of room for outdoor furniture and entertaining undercover, with around six entry points back into the home – perfect for entertaining guests and creating a multi-dimensional space.

The extra-wide verandah borders around the front and sides of the home.
Camera IconThe extra-wide verandah borders around the front and sides of the home. Credit: Anthony Tran/Supplied.

The two bedrooms in the extension are incredibly modern in look and feel, with the same being said for the bedroom downstairs.

“The home has the timeless character of the early 20th century Australian federation style and has stood the test of time – it speaks for itself,” the owners said. “The well-built granite and timber structure is warm and virtually maintenance-free. It will last forever.”

Filled history, the owners said the property’s surrounds were flush with heritage sights, making it a highly sought-after area in Darlington.

The home’s federation character has been preserved everywhere you look.
Camera IconThe home’s federation character has been preserved everywhere you look. Credit: Anthony Tran/Supplied.

“This house was built by Frank Walters – a signwriter from North Perth,” they said. “He had the choice of blocks and built it to overlook the vineyard and winery of the time – which are now the village green and hall respectively.

“This corner position is iconic to Darlington, and the aspect over the village is truly hard to rival in any Perth suburb.

“It is protected forever because both frontages overlook heritage-listed areas – St Cuthbert’s Anglican Church and its grounds, and the old steam railway line which is now the wonderful heritage trail.

“Your view will never be impinged on by any neighbouring building.”

105 Darlington Road, Darlington

Beds: 4

Baths: 2

Price: High $1 millions

Agent: The Agency Perth

Contact: Patrick Harper, 0413 440 107

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