A classic Klopper in the heart of Freo has just hit the market

There aren’t many architects that have become so entrenched within the particularly Perth architecture vernacular.

There are probably only two architectural names that have entered the realm of the everyday observer: Iwanoff and his mid-century marvels, certainly – but also Brian Klopper, whose worn brick walls and steel-framed windows have helped define the streets of Fremantle (and Subiaco) over the past 50 years.

It was just over a year ago that Klopper’s own rustic family home in Nedlands hit the market – and this Fremantle home, built just a few years prior in 1981, has plenty in common with its younger Nedlands superstar sibling.

In fact, we’ll be honest: when we first saw those spectacular floor-to-ceiling steel-framed windows… We actually thought it was the Klopper family home. “Haven’t we seen this before?” we thought to ourselves, hurriedly checking the address.

(This home is in fact on the outskirts of Fremantle’s CBD, just a short walk from the bustle of your favourite Freo bars, restaurants and cafes…)

As well as those incredible windows, the patchwork of glass that creates the front door also echoes its Nedlands counterpart, as does the robust timber beams and the placement of the rustic kitchen under a mezzanine upper level.

Where the Nedlands home’s upper level is enclosed in yet more rustic recycled brick, this home has more of an Arts and Crafts influence – particularly seen in the jarrah “minstrel’s gallery” that surrounds the mezzanine level, as well as the tiered brick fireplace that screams Klopper.

The kitchen’s sweet stained glass looks out at the sympathetic limestone extension that was completed in 2006, adding two more bedroom suites, a lounge and garage to the home across two levels.

Upstairs, the extension leads back to the original part of the home through one of the bedrooms, before ending up back at the impressive mezzanine lounge and study nook.

In the corner? A real delight: a winding timber staircase, dotted with tiny leadlight windows, that leads up to a whimsical turret with panoramic views stretching from Garden Island to Fremantle Harbour.

Fallen in love? Check out the listing for 4 Bellevue Terrace here.

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Image credit: Crib Creative