The Heritage Collective is a vibrant cultural and community hub set within three beautifully restored heritage buildings on the Cottesloe coastline, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, Rottnest Island, and the coastline from Fremantle to Scarborough and beyond. The site features hireable spaces including a club lounge, sitting room, boardroom, corner office, 40-seat cinema with adjoining lobby, and a maker’s space. Beautiful stained glass and heritage features blend with contemporary furnishings and art, while landscaped gardens and in-house catering support events and gatherings.

The Heritage Collective runs a rich arts and cultural program, including workshops, concerts, films, and children’s classes. Highlights over the past year include performances by five-time ARIA Award-winning singer Katie Noonan with the Australian Vocal Ensemble, Australian Baroque, WASO, panel discussions with prominent WA authors, a sustainability program, and inclusive art classes for all ages and skill levels.

A Legacy of Service
The Heritage Collective buildings have a long history of serving the community. Originally established as a convalescent home for those recovering from illness, they later became a home for older people, continuing a tradition of care and community support.

The Ministering Children’s League
The WA branch of the Ministering Children’s League was formed in 1891 by Mrs H. D. Holmes, wife of Henry Holmes, Manager of the West Australian Bank. The Society planned to build a convalescent cottage by the sea, which became one of the largest and most successful philanthropic institutes of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Following a petition by influential Perth citizens, the League was granted five acres of land in Cottesloe, with the requirement that construction begin within three years. Through fundraising, private donations, and State funding, the project came to life. On 21 November 1896, a Foundation Stone was laid by Lady Onslow, and the Ministering Children’s League Convalescent Home officially opened on 1 May 1897.

The Buildings
Designed by prominent architect Percy William Harrison in the Federation Queen Anne style and constructed from sandstone quarried on-site, the buildings were thoughtfully created to provide a ‘cottage’ feel that complemented the natural contours of the land.

The landmark two-storey building, featuring a candle-snuffer roof and elevated balcony, opened in October 1909 by Lady Strickland, wife of the Governor and President of the Home. Built by F. W. G. Liebe—whose works include His Majesty’s Theatre—this wing, named the Meath Wing after the League’s founder Lady Meath, included two wards of nine beds each plus two private rooms. With the completion of the third building, the League had successfully cared for over 18,600 patients.

Redevelopment and Contemporary Use
In 2020, Curtin Heritage Living undertook a major redevelopment of the site, creating more opportunities for older people to call it home while completely refurbishing the heritage buildings. Today, The Heritage Collective blends historical charm with modern functionality, offering spaces for the broader community and fostering meaningful connections for people from all walks of life.