the house they wouldn't alter
"The house they wouldn't alter" were the words used to describe 8 Duffy Street Ainslie in Australian Home Beautiful, August 1957. Now this iconic Ainslie mid-century modern home that has been much loved and treasured, and has been passionately and painstakingly restored, is available to rent
The supremely photogenic front facade has been a distinctive part of the Ainslie streetscape since the 1950s. Set high up on Mt Ainslie, the home nestles into the mountain and overlooks the city towards the Brindabellas.
In a sympathetic modernist style, the home includes timber features, stone, slate, and the original mesh wire handrails so typical of the era. The home has stone walls on the lower level, contrasting with stucco rendered walls above. Generous verandas, side terraces, and a covered balcony are standout features. What hasn't been saved has been replaced with carefully sourced mid-century details.
The home is inspiring. It is still as contemporary and relevant in 2019 as it was in the mid-1950s. Modern-day liveability has been achieved by using double glazing, LED lighting, under floor heating in the bathrooms, solar panels and reverse cycle air