Heritage TitleHOUSE, 4 MARTHA STREETAddress4 Martha Street SOUTH FREMANTLE WA 6162Geo tag[1] Heritage Place No27624Street Number4Construction Commenced1920cStatement Of SignificanceHOUSE, 4 MARTHA STREET, a single storey timber, fibro and iron roofed house, is a representative example of a 1920s Californian Bungalow, reflecting the architectural and social trends of the Inter-War period (c. 1915–1940). This place is significant as a modest yet important example of the interwar Californian Bungalow housing style that became popular in Western Australia, reflecting both the economic and social conditions of the time.
The place has aesthetic value for its contribution to the streetscape and the surrounding area. This house is a modest example of the Californian Bungalow style, which was widely adopted throughout Fremantle at this time. Characteristic features such as a low-pitched hipped and gabled roof, exposed rafters, decorative timberwork, and a wide verandah supported by masonry piers contribute to its architectural value. These elements contribute to the historical streetscape and the broader residential character of Fremantle.
The bungalow represents the expansion of Fremantle’s suburbs during the interwar period, a time when increased prosperity and improved transport links encouraged the development of detached family homes. It contributes to the historical narrative of Fremantle’s growth beyond its port and commercial hub, providing insight into the lifestyles of middle-class families in the early 20th century. It provides insight into the living conditions and domestic architecture of the era. The house contributes to Fremantle’s community identity, representing a period when the area saw increased residential development to accommodate a growing population. As part of a broader streetscape of interwar homes, the bungalow contributes to the collective character of its streetscape. It represents a period when Australian home design shifted towards informal, open-plan living, influencing residential architecture for decades to come. This house is a good example of the type and retains key architectural features that typify the period.
Statutory Heritage Areas
Statutory Heritage Area CustodianCity of FremantleStatutory Heritage Area South Fremantle Heritage AreaHeritage Area StatusContributoryHeritage Area InHerit Number22386Statutory Heritage Area Date14/10/2000
Local Government Statutory Heritage Listings
Local Government Statutory Listing CustodianCity of FremantleLocal Government Statutory Listing TypeHeritage ListLocal Government Statutory Listing StatusYesLocal Government Statutory Listing Date27/08/2025
Local Government Non-Statutory Local Heritage Survey
Local Government Non-Statutory Local Heritage Survey CustodianCity of FremantleLocal Government Non-Statutory Local Heritage Survey Date27/08/2025Local Government Non-Statutory Listing Local Heritage Survey Management CategoryLevel 3
PARENT PLACE
Parent Place No22386Parent place nameSouth Fremantle Heritage Area
HOUSE, 4 MARTHA STREET, SOUTH FREMANTLE WA 6162. City of Fremantle Local History Centre, accessed 19/03/2026, https://history.fremantle.wa.gov.au/nodes/view/37561
