David or Goliath? A Modernist home to suit any budget.

There are a myriad of reasons why many of us like Mid-Century Architecture. One of the more philosophical ones is it’s egalitarian basis. It’s a design and architectural ideal which does not seek to advertise wealth, exclude the ‘unworthy’ or shut out nature. This particular tenet of Modernism twinged our attention this week with the appearance of a couple of new listings.
Whilst not dwelling on this county’s housing market, much is made about the spiralling costs of homes and much is made of rockstar architects, million dollar projects and glossy cover spreads in expensive magazines. But just as there are beautiful Modernist Australian homes by historically classic architects in the high price bracket there is also, by it’s very nature, also many little gems sitting at the other end of the scale.

Example A – The Gissing House, a magnificently preserved and maintained house by premier Modernist architect Harry Seidler. Located in Wahroonga, Sydney it is a beautiful but particular property, for which a very exclusive audience have been invited to express their interest. A price tag that dare not speak its name, a Tattslotto job and just a nice dream for most.

Example B – Leopold, Geelong. In an overlooked suburb, in Victoria’s second city. 15 minutes from wineries and some of the state’s best surf beaches or a 1 hour journey to Melbourne’s CBD, sits this beauty. A classic by any MA standards with it’s breeze block carport, open plan living, wood and laminex cabinetry and freestanding fireplace. The price for this 4-bedroom wonder? $260K.

It is startling to see a house selling so modestly these days, let alone a property which is the natural habitat for what are nowdays considered high-end (read: high price tag) items. An Eames chair, Calder mobile or set of Boyd ramekins would sit comfortably within this little, suburban house. Good design in a property available to most anyone – it is a situation that we think the originators of the Modernist design would be very happy to see.

For the full details of both properties check our Real Estate Listings.