Step into 2 Willow Road, Ernő Goldfinger’s 1939 Modernist gem in Hampstead, packed with original art, bespoke furniture, and sleek architectural details.
"2 Willow Road, Hampstead Heath. Erno Goldfinger designed this magnificent Modernist home for him and his family in 1939, which has been beautifully preserved along with his belongings, furniture - much of it designed by himself - and collection of modern art including pieces by Henry Moore, Max Ernst and Bridget Riley. Wonderful architectural details appear throughout like the paint colours chosen to highlight different materials, the beautiful spiral staircase and the wooden partition wall that can be folded away to create a large communal area for social occasions. Unlike us, writer and Hampstead resident Ian Fleming apparently wasn’t a fan and is said to have taken inspiration from Goldfinger’s surname for his James Bond villain."
Owned by the National Trust and built on the site of some old farm labourer's cottages, 2 Willow Road is the homelier side of architectural brutalism. When it was built it sparked controversy, but today it looks in keeping with the rest of Willow Road. Inside is a well-designed, comfortable living space which was arranged for the parties the Goldfingers used to throw.
There is a film showing the history of the site and the lifestyle of the family who lived here. The furniture was specially designed and includes a wonderful desk.
The only part of the plot which the Goldfingers weren't bothered for is the garden - so most of this land was given over to the neighbours.
Opening times are irregular, so worth checking before visiting.
Qype User (nickwi…)
Yelp
Interested in quirky architecture or modern art? Want to go somewhere different in London? Off the beaten track? This is the place!
Designed by Erno Goldfinger (not the chap in the Bond film!), it's a house he built for his family in 1939 (opposite Hampstead Heath) Full of fascinating period pieces like sculptures by Moore and Ernst.There's art by Ben Nicholson and Bridgit Riley and others.
It's now owned by the National Trust, so if you're a member why not make a day of it and check out nearby Fenton House too?
(nb they don't have a public loo, so find somewhere to 'go' first!)