Robin Boyd · Blott House

We’re breaking with tradition today to share a very special home, which we hope might, perhaps, find a new owner from somewhere in our midst!

The Blott house in Chirnside park (about 45mins east of Melbourne’s CBD) is a remarkable mid century home in almost original condition, designed by influential Australian architect Robin Boyd in 1956. It’s currently for sale, but sadly, the home is not heritage protected, which leaves its future hanging somewhat precariously in the balance.

Written

Lucy Feagins

The ‘Blott House’ by Robin Boyd. Photo – courtesy of Jellis Craig.

The home was designed in 1956 for Dr Stanley Blott and his wife. Photo – courtesy of Jellis Craig.

It has undergone few renovations, preserving Boyd’s vision. Photo – courtesy of Jellis Craig.

The vast windows make for stunning vistas out over Healesville. Photo – courtesy of Jellis Craig.

The property is being quoted for $1.2 million. Photo – courtesy of Jellis Craig.

The classic building is not currently protected by a heritage listing. Photo – courtesy of Jellis Craig.

It is feared that the large block may be purchased for land development. Photo – courtesy of Jellis Craig.

Writer

Lucy Feagins

6th of March 2017

Tony Lee, the director of the Robin Boyd Foundation, considers The Blott house in Chirnside Park one of the best examples of an original Boyd house remaining in Melbourne. It’s of great concern to local mid century enthusiasts, therefore, to see this home go under the hammer later this month, without a the protection of a heritage listing.

Originally designed in 1956 for Dr Stanley Blott and his wife, the Blott house features a dramatic sloping roofline and floor to ceiling windows, looking out to impressive grounds, and the Yarra Valley beyond. Unfortunately, it’s that huge garden that’s part of the problem – at 1965 square metres, this property is of a scale that makes it a lucrative opportunity for potential redevelopment.

The Blott House is one of two Boyd homes in Melbourne which are for sale at present, the second being the iconic Boyd Baker House in Ashwood. It would be a damn shame if either of these properties fell into the wrong hands, so we implore you to share this story amongst any real-estate-hunting, mid-century-design enthusiasts!

You can find out more about Robin Boyd’s legacy by visiting The Robin Boyd Foundation website, and, keep abreast of mid century real estate listings across Australia via the good folks at Modernist Australia.

The Blott House is listed with Jellis Craig Hawthorn, with an auction date of March 25th. This post is NOT sponsored. Just doing our bit to see this house preserved for future generations!