Perched high on Canning Highway, the Tradewinds Hotel is an institution. While the iconic views of Fremantle Harbour are still the same, after a two-year redevelopment, the hotel is not.

“The vision was to create a refined, sleek design with subtle hints to Fremantle’s playful and vibrant culture,” says Garrett Prendiville of the Prendiville Group. “We wanted to ensure we preserved the history while also reviving and reinvigorating our identity.”

The new Tradewinds combines historic architecture, modern amenities and attention to detail. Featuring towering palm trees, a fresh monochrome exterior and relaxing interiors, it’s easy to see why Prendiville describes the space as “classic cool”.

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“There is so much history within these walls and it was important we retain the character, while also injecting a bit of Fremantle’s fun,” he says.

The $7 million renovation stretches through the 83 guest rooms, gym, pool area, parking, and rooftop bar. Next in line is the bistro and outdoor garden bar.

The rooftop area has prime views of the harbour and surrounds, and features day beds, built-in seating and armchairs. At night, rooftop lights sparkle like a Parisian avenue.

Guest rooms flow from the L-shaped lounge to spacious bathrooms. Minimalist decor lends a Scandinavian bent. Warm timber panels blend with concrete feature walls and distinctive black and stone floor-to-ceiling tiling in the bathroom. Fremantle’s history is referenced throughout.

“Views of the shipping harbour influenced our breezy, relaxed look,” says Prendiville. “The slatted timber cabinets hint at the corrugated tin of industrial shipping containers. The concrete wall framing the contemporary four-poster bed is a nod to the raw industry of the docks. The linen fabrics and highlights of rich navy create a modern, nautical feel.

“We fell in love with Australian artist Sarah Kelk’s work and this really formed the centrepiece of our new brand and design. It’s a really calming pastel colour palette to mirror our riverside views.”

Printed guides including cafes, retailers and galleries help create a sense of community.

“Our guests are looking for more than just a hotel room, they want a unique experience,” says Prendiville. ”They don’t want cookie-cutter hotel design, or to be locked in a corporate CBD environment. They want to live like a Perth-ite, enjoy our laid-back lifestyle and immerse themselves within the local community.”

The Tradewinds was recently awarded Best Redeveloped Hotel at the Australian Hotels Association Awards.

The Tradewinds Hotel
59 Canning Highway, East Fremantle
(08) 9339 8188
tradewindshotel.com.au