One of ten architect-designed homes in the Pettit + Sevitt display village in 1966, 4 Staddon Close, St Ives, is the Courtyard House that was designed by renowned architect Ken Woolley in 1965 and is now for sale through James Yahl at Savills St Ives.
As outlined in the original Pettit + Sevitt brochure, “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. The home has three bedrooms, a combined living and dining area, kitchen, bathroom and laundry.”
“There is a high demand for the Pettit + Sevitt brand as our modernist designs are timeless,” said Val Sevitt.
One of only two owners of the property, the Johnson’s have loved the home since they purchased it in 2012 and have updated it in keeping with the original aesthetic. The house retains its original internal floorplan and a sympathetic extension of a 4th bedroom/studio area with a large workshop below that was added in the 1980’s.
James Yahl of Savills St Ives commented on its appeal for modern day buyers.
“The mid-century modernist architecture is exactly what modern day buyers are looking for with open living spaces and a real connection to the outdoors. Sitting in a quiet and tightly-held cul-de-sac in St Ives, I expect to have a lot of interest from local families and downsizers as this is such remarkable home,” said James Yahl.
Eleanor Johnson, current owner, said, “These houses in Staddon Close are iconic references to mid-century modern homes, designed for Australian lifestyles, connecting inside and outside living and entertainment. We have lovingly preserved this architectural gem, and hope to find a buyer who will love it has much as we have.”
4 Staddon Close was featured as part of Sydney Living Museums Iconic Australian Houses Tours in 2014, where Ken Woolley led participants through the property and described its architectural elements.
“We had the great pleasure of meeting Ken Woolley in 2014 and enjoyed showing him our home. He was moved and pleased to see it in such original condition,” said Eleanor Johnson.
The garden features the original layout with three distinct and private spaces that now showcase mature Japanese maples, orchids, camellias and azaleas throughout.
Pettit + Sevitt were the market leaders in project homes in the 60’s and 70’s due in part to their simplicity of design which creates great aesthetic appeal.
“The construction is so well thought through with cross ventilation, high ceilings and timber windows all being huge elements of today’s sustainability ideals. Pettit + Sevitt are arguably to this day one of the most influential, well respected and successful project home companies in Australia,” said James Yahl.
Pettit + Sevitt created two notable display villages in St Ives, the first on Mona vale road and Richmond Avenue in 1964; due to its popularity, another was constructed in 1966, to include Staddon Close and surrounding streets.
Pettit + Sevitt are still in business today and have brand new designs about to be released reflecting their classic designs.