No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay. Picture: Supplied
It has been 18 years, but John and Marilyn Pugsley remember the exact day of the week that they first laid eyes on No.4 Walford Rd.
The mid-century modern house — in a peaceful, leafy corner of Sandy Bay — made a lasting impression.
The couple visited the home on a Thursday evening, sneaking a peek at the exterior and anything they could glean through the windows.
Quickly they knew they had to buy it and make it their home for many happy years to come.
“We called the agent, arranged an inspection and made an offer not long after,” Mr Pugsley said.
The Pugsleys have called No.4 Walford home for 18 years, and they are only the second owners since it was first designed and built some 75 years ago.
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No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
The mid-century architecture of the era was the driving force behind their desire to buy the property, and naturally, they have treated it with care ever since.
Mrs Pugsley said the house was in original condition when they took ownership and that they didn’t want to “do too much” to it, but instead to preserve and showcase its fine features.
“It is flattering when people ask, “Is this the original kitchen?” It’s a wonderful compliment. The original kitchen cupboards were worn out, there was no dishwasher … but we kept the shape and carefully designed it to fit within this home and to work for a modern lifestyle.”
The house was designed by Tasmanian architects E. Garfield Haslock and Patrick Bush. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright, this mid-century modern residence is a true ‘house of ideas’, as it was described in the May 1951 cover story for Home Beautiful magazine.
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No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
Originally built for Mary and Gordon Gray, on land gifted by Mary’s father, this home remained in the same family for over 55 years.
As is often the case in homes of this era, the warmth and light that the design draws into the house is stunning.
Cleverly positioned windows flood the home with natural light, creating a seamless connection to the beautifully landscaped gardens.
The split-level layout ensures effortless flow between living zones, with private spaces subtly separated for comfort and functionality.
The main living area is a showcase of craftsmanship with rich Tasmanian timber detailing, a striking stacked-stone fireplace, and a bespoke built-in bookcase all contribute to the home’s undeniable character.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
Sunlight dances across the original timber floors, while the paved terraces and timber deck provide a perfect retreat for quiet moments or entertaining guests.
The dining and kitchen areas offer an intimate yet airy setting, where large picture windows frame the lush garden view.
The kitchen, updated with modern appliances while retaining its 1950s charm, features custom timber cabinetry, a spacious layout and quality finishes that blend form and function effortlessly.
On the upper level, the bedrooms continue the theme of mid-century design, each featuring original built-in timber wardrobes, and large picture windows.
The primary bedroom suite captures garden and river views and enjoys generous proportions, while the bathroom is a striking blend of period elegance and practicality, with bold black tilework, an original timber vanity and a deep soaking tub.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
At the front of the home, beyond a century-old pear tree, the sheltered entrance provides an inviting transition between the built environment and the lushly landscaped gardens that embrace the home on all sides.
Multiple terraced spaces spill into the established gardens, where mature trees, sculpted hedges, and seasonal plantings create an ever-changing canvas of colour and tranquillity.
Meanwhile, the property’s lower floor is home to a self-contained one-bedroom apartment, which again reflects the architectural integrity of the house.
It has been used as a highly successful short-stay accommodation venture.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
No.4 Walford Rd, Sandy Bay.
The Pugsleys hope that the next owners love living at No.4 as much as they have.
Mr Pugsley said if they could magically take the house with them to their next destination, they would in a heartbeat.
“We hope the new owners recognise the architectural merits of the home,” he said.
“We will miss living here. It is such a nice space, a lovely place to live.”
Mrs Pugsley said, for the many people who adore the architecture of this era, this is the home for them.
“You couldn’t ask for more,” she said.
No.4 Walford Rd. Sandy Bay is for sale with New Haus Agency by expressions of interest.
English (US) · 