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Willy House

Location 3 Heymount Court,, TOORAK VIC 3142 - Property No B7143 File Number B7143 Level State

[1/1] B7143 Willy House

Statement of Significance

The Willy House by noted architect Guilford Bell built 1972, is of architectural importance at the State level.
Guilford Bell holds a unique position in architectural history in Australia, and this house is considered one his most important works. His distinctive ouvre combines modernist minimalism with traditional symmetrical and axial arrangements, and middle-eastern inspired courtyard planning.
The Willy House, on an odd-shaped block, has a one of the most complex hierarchies of axes and spaces of his houses. With its series of served and service spaces, integration of rooms and courtyards and symbolic central pyramid, the house takes on the appearance of a small temple, aloof and dignified with a hieratic aura we do not usually associate with suburban living. The rooms and courtyards occupy the entire block, dissolving the house as an architectural object, instead it becomes a narrative of relaxation and an attainment of tranquillity.
Classified: 03/09/2001