Interview: Tim Buckton

What inspired you to open Garde?

We’re deeply inspired by history and how it connects with the present. Garde is located on some of the most historically significant sites in Fremantle. The Warders Cottages, which once housed prison officers from Fremantle Prison, are filled with fascinating stories. Some of the wardens’ antics were arguably more outrageous than the crimes committed by the prisoners! 

The Old Courthouse, Fremantle’s first court, is also part of our precinct, and Garde itself is located in what was once the city’s police station. Throughout the site, we’ve installed interpretive signage to offer visitors insight into the rich and sometimes surprising history of this area. We always recommend a tour of Fremantle Prison, it helps connect the dots. 

Is there a story behind the name of the hotel?

Yes. ‘Garde’ is derived from “guardian”. The old police station once stood watch over Fremantle, and in that same spirit, we see ourselves as modern guardians of the city’s stories, culture, and hospitality. The name reflects both protection and pride in place. 

Why Fremantle?

We absolutely love Fremantle. How many cities in the world can boast world-class dining, a working port, a major university, a riverfront and beaches, centuries-old architecture, vibrant shopping, fantastic public transport, cultural and sporting venues, and access to island getaways, all within 25 minutes of a major CBD? 

Fremantle is Perth’s ‘Old Town’ and a must-visit destination for anyone coming to Western Australia. 

Despite its appeal, Fremantle has historically lacked high-quality accommodation, making it more of a day-trip destination. With Garde, we’ve added the first five-star hotel product in over 100 years and significantly increased the city’s room capacity. Now, visitors can stay longer and use Fremantle as a base to explore both Perth and the broader region. 

What do you love most about Fremantle?

Fremantle has a community spirit like no other. The people here are passionate, proud, and vocal about their love for the place, and that’s something truly special. Being part of this thriving, creative, and tight-knit community makes it a joy to do business here. 

What can guests expect in terms of design and ambience? 

Garde represents a reimagined heritage precinct. Set within the old Fremantle police headquarters, the design blends brutalist and heritage styles, creating a layered aesthetic that celebrates both past and present. 

Guests will find an open, welcoming reception, the stylish Anglesea Bar & Dining, and 106 carefully designed rooms, including 83 luxurious rooms and suites, and 23 highly sought-after Warders Cottages. 

With Emily Taylor and Gimlet right at your doorstep, and the Fremantle Prison precinct just steps away, the experience is steeped in character and storytelling. Art, architecture, and atmosphere intertwine to create a truly unique and world-class offering. 

Will the hotel offer sustainable or eco-friendly initiatives? 

Absolutely. Garde and Warders Hotel are proud to introduce an Australian-first sustainability initiative. We’ve eliminated single-use plastic water bottles and instead offer guests chilled still and sparkling water via in-room taps, infused with lemon, lime, or grapefruit, all complimentary. 

This initiative alone is expected to eliminate the need for over 61,000 plastic bottles each year. We believe this should become the standard in modern hospitality. 

On top of this, we will have three EV charging stations available for hotel guests during their stay. 

What kind of guest experience are you trying to create? 

Something genuinely unique – and outside the box. A stay at Garde is far from the typical hotel experience. 

We offer complimentary minibars stocked with local beer, wine, soft drinks, and snacks. Breakfast is on us, showcasing local produce from nearby markets and community gardens. Evening wine tastings in the bar highlight boutique wineries from the South West and Swan Valley. 

Think: double bathtubs, double showers, private saunas, and ice showers. Harbour views. Unique suites. And a choice of vibrant, on-site dining options. 

How do you see the hotel contributing to Fremantle? 

Garde is expected to bring an additional 91,000 visitors to Fremantle every year, a huge boost for local businesses. Retailers, cafés, restaurants, and event spaces will all benefit from this influx of tourists and travellers. 

We also anticipate 418,000 annual visitors to our dining outlets, including Emily Taylor, Sailing for Oranges, and Anglesea. Our goal is to contribute meaningfully to the local economy and help make Fremantle an overnight destination again.