Garde Hotel

Positioned in the heart of Fremantle, Western Australia, Garde Hotel is a dynamic hospitality precinct that celebrates its port heritage and local wealth of artists, artisans, and makers. The project was shaped by close collaboration between Foolscap, local architecture practices Matthew Crawford Architects and Meyer Shircore, and a talented pool of WA-based creatives.

The new 83-room hotel sits within a cherished heritage precinct, alongside iconic landmarks such as Fremantle Prison, the Old Courthouse, and the Warders Cottages W2. The site comprises three interconnected heritage buildings—originally constructed as police quarters between 1897 and 1903—and a 1978 addition by esteemed local architect R. J. 'Gus' Ferguson. As part of the site’s adaptive reuse, Matthew Crawford Architects developed a refined two-storey concept design that complements Ferguson’s striking off-form concrete work, while project architect Meye Shircore translated this vision into detailed, buildable plans. Carefully considered materials now unify the site’s layered history into a cohesive, contemporary whole.

Foolscap led the interior design of Anglesea—the hotel’s bar and restaurant— along with its flexible event and meeting spaces. Throughout, the design team embraced local craftsmanship, community, and storytelling grounded in place. “We wanted to create an environment that felt deeply embedded in Fremantle, not imposed upon it,” says Founder & Director, Adele Winteridge. “By collaborating with our network of local makers and drawing on the area’s distinctive history and character, we’ve shaped a space that authentically reflects Fremantle’s identity.”

The well-planned arrangement of Anglesea facilitates seamless transitions throughout the day – from bright mornings to atmospheric evenings. Rich textures and warm materials, including Australian Spotted Gum and Smoked Eucalyptus, feature alongside lantern-like ceilings, and bespoke furniture, lighting, and fittings, animating the open layout.

“The interior explores the concept of craft and industry, which are integral in Fremantle’s port heritage and natural surroundings, including its limestone foundations,” describes Perth Studio Director, Renae Tapley.

This concept is exemplified in the venue’s bespoke marquetry tables, which skilfully compose local Jarrah, Marri and Woody Pear timber veneers.

Foolscap carried this place-driven narrative through to the hotel’s event and meeting spaces, delivering a cohesive, character-rich experience, while also curating furniture and lighting in the guest rooms and reception lobby. Sustainability guided every stage of the process, with an emphasis on circularity, enduring design, and the use of locally sourced materials, including salvaged travertine, to reduce the project’s carbon footprint.

The studio incorporated works by several local designers, artists and makers. Notable among them is ceramicist Gavin Carver, artist Jordy Hewitt, furniture and object design studio Pivello Terrazzo, timber artisans Scarab Studio Wood, and furniture manufacturer Arthur G – all Australian and key to the expression of the hotel’s local ethos. Developed in partnership with Artbank, the art collection displayed in Anglesea and the reception lobby features significant works by Indigenous artists, adding deeper cultural resonance to both public and private spaces.

Welcoming both locals and travellers with equal warmth, Garde Hotel expresses a considered understanding of Fremantle through its materials, custom furnishings, curated artworks, and bespoke details. Redefining design-led accommodation in Western Australia, the hotel embodies permanence and a grounded respect for place, inviting curiosity and fostering connection.