An iconic slice of Perth architectural history is seeking a new custodian, with the brutalist style home of the late renowned Bulgarian-born architect Iwan Iwanoff listed for sale.
Built in 1966, Iwanoff House at 16 Lifford Road, Floreat was not only Iwanoff’s family residence but was also home to his architectural practice, The Studio of Iwanoff.
Iwanoff House, where legendary architect Iwan Iwanoff lived and worked, has been listed for sale. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
Iwanoff, who died in 1986, became renowned for his distinct brutalist style, including a creative use of concrete blockwork, timber, and other distinct characteristics, including futuristic-style letterboxes.
His designs have something of a cult following in Perth with several of his architectural gems from the late 1950s, ’60s and ’70s found in the suburbs of Karrinyup, Mt Lawley, Dianella and City Beach.
Iwanoff's homes were known for his striking use of concrete blockwork. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
Sales agent Danielle Geagea of Zsa Zsa Property said Iwanoff homes were fundamentally timeless with a modern aesthetic which continued to resonate with buyers today.
“It's a privileged position to be asked to handle the sale of an Iwanoff,” she said.
“When it was sold to them in 2022, it was sold ultimately as a project. Back then it needed a lot of work so the buyers were aware of that, and obviously took the project on to give it back the love and the care that obviously was required.”
The mid-century home features timber panelling and cabinetry throughout. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
The heritage-listed home’s long list of restoration and renovation works — which remained sympathetic to Iwanoff's original architecture — were completed by Assemble Building Co under the architectural design expertise of State of Kin, and included a new roof, new plumbing and carports, a new laundry, updated bathrooms and a new pool.
The upper floor includes a living and dining area, kitchen and two bedrooms. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
A brand-new main suite was created on the ground floor and has been designed as a private retreat. In keeping with Iwanoff's original architecture, it features curved forms, textured finishes and custom wood veneer cabinetry.
The three bedroom, three bathroom home is set on a 903sqm landholding and its Iwanoff hallmarks include its concrete besser block design and construction, continuous strip windows, a custom concrete letterbox, timber panelling and custom wood cabinetry.
Long windows connect the house with its lush surrounds. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
On the ground floor, Iwanoff's former architectural studio is now used as a substantial second living area, or home office.
Listed for sale via an ‘All Offers’ by October 6 campaign, Ms Geagea said the residence’s first home open had queues of people lined down Lifford Road.
Many of Iwanoff's most famous creations were designed in the home's ground floor studio, which now serves as a living space. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
“We've opened it in a considered fashion, mainly because this is a private residence and with an Iwanoff, obviously you get lots of people coming through,” she said.
The home occupies a leafy 903sqm block with native gardens. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy
“The art of selling an Iwanoff is managing the dance between getting the general public through, as well as buyers, making sure that buyers obviously have our time and attention too.”
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