It’s caught the eye of many West Australians over the years and finally after over four decades, the doors of La Villa Maria have reopened.
The Victoria Park residence, which was listed on the market in 2022, has found its new owners in Farris Faris and Ashayla Dawn.
Now, the couple are graciously unveiling the home’s history and unique decor to the world.
“The build started in the 1950-1960s and finished in the 1970s, for the matriarch and patriarch of the Isaia family (Italian immigrants who came out after WWII) …
“The house was completed after their death, so a daughter moved in and apparently she was uncomfortable living on her own and so it remained empty and was used only for family events, and to host visiting priests from the Vatican,” explains Ashayla Dawn who works in heritage at the National Trust of Western Australia, and for the couple’s property settlement and conveyancing firm, Rothschild Group.
Dawn’s connection to her Italian heritage led her to the home, which boasts striking Italian design features throughout.
From the Italian flag-inspired LED light windows to the bold red floor tiles and ceiling decorated with cherubs, the residence exudes Italian flair.
Similarly, Faris, who was born in Iraq and relocated to Australia in 2008, found himself captivated by the home’s decor, with its rich colours and distinctive character, reminiscent of the opulent homes in Iraq.
“The photos online didn’t do it justice. When we visited the home in person it was spectacular,” explains Faris, a senior solicitor and barrister at Rebus Legal and founder of Rothschild Group.
The white concrete home has a remarkable facade adorned with curves, while inside a grand entry with a double staircase leads to the second level.
Attention to detail is evident throughout, with gold accents, marble and decorative tiles, and 27 Murano Venetian glass chandeliers.
“The Italian details remind us of who built the home and their contribution to the development of Western Australia,” explains Dawn. “We named the house Mary after the statue in the backyard. It’s a nice representation of both of our cultures, I was raised Catholic and Farris is Muslim, and Mary plays a significant role in the Quran, so it’s a nice combination,” she explains.
The style is a mix of styles with opulent red carpet, matching curtains and mirrored pillars.
“We’ve heard a few descriptions; boujee, opulent, disco, extravagant. We tend to just say, it’s very Italian,” says Dawn.
In addition to making the home available for photo and video shoots, the couple have plans to renovate the property.
“The property is true vintage. We have many plans for it, including upgrades and the removal of the upstairs kitchen for a master suite … we plan to do these whilst still being respectful of the heritage of the property,” says Dawn.
One of the hero design features is the glass dome in the entry of the home.
“We managed to repair it to get through this winter, but we’ll need to replace it. When the light fills the room, it’s beautiful,” explains Faris.