B&W images by Max Dupain
Pettit and Sevitt project homes of the 1960s and 70s are a staple here for us and its always a sight for sore eyes when those familair mission brown beams and white brick walls float up on a feed, this example however is a cut above the usual. ‘The Courtyard House’ was a design by Ken Woolley (but of course) for the company c.1965 and was compleated in 1966 as part of their second display village, one of ten domestic architecture dreams presented for consideration to the post war public as an indigenous, enlightened response to the needs of the emrgeing Australian lifestyle and climate. And as it did then, it wows us today with a considered inside/outside floorplan as the original village brochure attests:
“The house encloses the courtyard on two sides and brick walls enclose the other sides. Living, kitchen and bedrooms all face the courtyard, even the roof slopes towards it emphasising its relationship to all rooms”
This residence is textbook parade of P&S trademark elements which endure as the best Mid-Cenutry Modenrism always does – the beautiful painted masonry, tile and timber and thanks to only two dedicated owners it is in spendid condition, with elegant gardens of harmonious plant selection.
Photographed in the mid 60s by Max Dupain and part of the 2014 Sydney Living Museums Iconic Houses Tour, where Ken Woolley himself walked the admiring throngs through this home, discussing his design, himself moved by its marvellous condition.
Now is the time for the next chapter and new owner to take the reigns of this exhbition level home. A new cusotdian to love it and keep it as it has been for the last 50 years, seeing through the next and enjoying every living moment its simple yet affecting design affords.
