After years of anticipation, Perth's ambitious $25 million transformation of a historic site is set to welcome the public, marking a major milestone for inner-city community and hospitality.
A New Chapter for a Historic Site
Baillie Hill will officially open its doors on Monday, January 19, breathing new life into the former Elizabeth Baillie site at 15 Hill View Terrace in East Victoria Park. This significant redevelopment turns one of Western Australia's most cherished locations into a vibrant, multifaceted destination designed as a modern, walkable village.
The project masterfully blends contemporary hospitality with deep respect for heritage and ample green space. At its heart is the restored Baillie House, which holds the distinguished title of being WA's first specialist maternity hospital. The precinct's design philosophy was led by General Manager Thomas Curtis and Food and Beverage Manager Patrick De Costa, who focused on creating a welcoming, connected, and easily enjoyable space for all.
"Every element at Baillie Hill has been designed to bring people together," Mr Curtis explained. He emphasised that while each venue within the precinct has its own unique identity and atmosphere, the overall experience feels cohesive and natural, whether visitors are stopping by for breakfast, an afternoon with family, or evening drinks.
Curated Venues and a Community Focus
The food and beverage offering is a cornerstone of the precinct, featuring a carefully curated collection of distinct venues. These include Beth’s Bakery, The Berwick Bar & Kitchen, Milly’s Acre, Parco Pizza, and Greensleeves Gelato. According to Mr De Costa, the concept of "neighbourhood hospitality" is key.
"It’s about creating spaces that people feel comfortable dropping into at any time," he said. "Places that fit into everyday routines rather than just special occasions. Quality does not have to be formal or exclusive."
Executive Chef Ermias Alemayehu is leading the culinary direction, with menus grounded in local Western Australian produce, seasonality, and low-waste practices. "Great food starts with great ingredients," Mr Alemayehu stated, highlighting a commitment to championing local growers and producers.
Honouring Heritage and Building a Workplace Culture
Heritage preservation was central to the project. The team undertook careful restoration work to preserve the original architectural features and honour the site's more than a century of history. "We didn’t want to build over history. We wanted to carry it forward," Mr Curtis remarked, noting the meaningful balance between honouring legacy and creating something new for future generations.
The opening of Baillie Hill is also a significant economic boost, creating more than 100 new jobs. People and Culture leader Ella Chambers-Hobbs is focused on cultivating a values-led workplace. "Baillie Hill isn’t just a collection of venues. It’s a community," she said. The aim is to build a culture rooted in kindness, creativity, pride, and genuine hospitality, ensuring every team member feels connected to their role and the precinct's mission.
Designed as an all-day destination, Baillie Hill invites locals to use the precinct from morning until night. The vision, as shared by Curtis and De Costa, is for people to drop in spontaneously, stay as long as they like, and always feel welcome—defining what a modern, walkable village looks like in the heart of Perth.
