St Emilie’s Convent demolished, only facade still standing

The State Government bought the convent building at 75 Kalamunda Road from the Sisters of St Joseph of the Apparition in 2010.

After redevelopment, it will allow the Esther Foundation to boost its accommodation for young women by 40 per cent.

The foundation provides a residential health, development and leadership program for young people, which includes education, vocational training and support services.

State Housing Authority acting general manager of commercial operations Kirsty Moore said the proposed design was in keeping with the local and State Government heritage category requirements.

Ms Moore said it had been working with Community Housing Limited in partnership with the Housing Authority to look at options to improve the amenity of the facility while preserving the rich heritage.

St Emilie’s is a Category 3 local heritage asset on the Shire of Kalamunda’s Municipal Heritage Register, which recommends that any alterations or extensions should reinforce the significance of the place, and original fabric should be retained wherever feasible.

The original building dates from 1883.

The new 42-bed facility will be developed to improve amenity and address the existing issues of the extensive use of asbestos and lead paint, Ms Moore said.

The new layout will retain the Priests’ House, the original arched facility, the original stained glass windows and the commemorative tablet from the chapel.

The government bought the site to provide supported residential accommodation for young people in need.