Heritage gem rich in character

Built circa 1922, this four-bedroom, two-bathroom character-oozing Wembley property has hit the market for the first time since 1966.

Situated on the high point of the block with views of Herdsman Lake, Orr House is on the Town of Cambridge’s heritage list and has been a landmark for almost a century.

Davey Real Estate Sales Consultant Tim Schifferli said it was a stunning example of the grand homes built in Wembley in the interwar period.

“I grew up in Wembley and I was always aware of Orr House and, although Wembley has changed a lot, this property has not,” he said.

“Orr House sits on a large block and was built with intentional commanding views over the lake.

“It was a prestigious site when Wembley was known as Perthshire Estate.”

The red brick home has a hipped roof overhanging a wide decked verandah and a pair of chimneys – a nod to the bygone era before air-conditioning was a standard feature in homes.

The zoning of the home is unique and not the common open-plan layout seen in modern homes today.

A flight of steps leads you to the grand entrance, where you are instantly flooded with a wave of history.

The residence has four large bedrooms – one of which has been used as a family sitting area.

Three of the bedrooms have access to extra rooms, which can be used as storage, studies and more.

The new kitchen is equipped with ample storage and space for a table, in addition to a dining room.

With two sumptuous bathrooms, a big laundry and countless storage areas, the historic home is fit to suit a large family if need be.

Executor of the estate Brian Kinneen said there was a good blend of old and new within the home.

“The architectural style of original jarrah boards, leadlight windows, sash windows, chandeliers, high ceilings, high skirting boards, picture rails, two original fireplaces and the original outhouse all preserve the history of the home, while the modern kitchen and two refurbished bathrooms bring the touch of new,” Mr Kinneen said.

Mr Kinneen said the house and gardens were the best Orr House had ever looked.

“There is a large expanse of lovingly tended lawn at the front of the property and terraced gardens with mature trees to the right of the driveway,” he said.

“The rear of the home has a large paved area and an additional manicured grassed area with plenty of room for a pool.”

Maintenance of the manicured gardens is made easy with the entire property having reticulation from a bore – lush gardens without the water bills.

Mr Schifferli said Wembley offered a great lifestyle to a buyer.

“Wembley is home to families,” he said. “It is close to Perth city, Subiaco and the coast.

“There are plenty of cafes, small bars and restaurants to choose from, as well as parkland and two magnificent lakes in Lake Monger and Herdsman Lake.

“It is a great location for families, as well as retirees and professionals.

“This end of Reserve Street is a cul-de-sac, so very quiet and no through traffic.”

66 Reserve Street, Wembley

Beds: 4

Baths: 2

Auction: Onsite Saturday December 11 at 2pm

Agent: Davey Real Estate

Contact: Tim Schifferli, 0432 988 185 or Charlie Lawlor, 0417 132 931