13. 2 Willow Road
Erno Goldfinger's modernist residence
2 Willow Road, Hampstead, London
2 Willow Road in Hampstead, is a beautiful modernist home designed in 1939 by Modernist Architect and furniture designer, Erno Goldfinger.
Born in 1902 to Hungarian Jewish family, and moved to England in the 1930s. Goldfinger was known for his iconic social housing projects, most notably Balfron Tower and Trellick Tower in London. 2 willow Road was designed as a home for himself and his family. Constructed from a concrete framed structure, the principal facade is a homage to modernism. The red brick facade exposed load-bearing columns and the continuous ribbon of windows picture-framing the first floor makes for spacious uninterrupted interiors.
At the time of design and construction, Goldfinger faced fierce opposition with the likes of 1930’s Hampteadtites; they believed his modernist design was out of keeping with the character of the neighbourhood. However, as much as he had opposition, he also had staunch supporters of his new plan.