The Friends of Kettle’s Yard were fortunate to be invited to visit Grantchester Road, Cambridge. Colin St John (Sandy) Wilson designed this Grade II-listed private house in the early 1960s for his own use while he taught at the University’s Department of Architecture. We were given an in-depth tour of the house by the present owner Maggie Smith who, together with her partner, has conscientiously restored the house close to its original state. Glimpsed from the roadway, the unassuming, yet boldly modern breeze block facade gives little clue as to the intricacy of the varied living spaces within. As we moved from the intimate, small-scale entrance area, our breath was taken away by the striking double height living space, with its wall of glass revealing the sculpture-filled garden. It was in this light-filled space, surrounded by the works of contemporary artist friends such as Paolozzi and Kitaj, that Sandy Wilson held seminars for his Cambridge architecture students. Among them was Rolfe Kentish who organised this event for the Friends. Rolfe went on to work with Wilson and his partner MJ Long on the design of the British Library and he was able to recount fascinating tales of his visits to the house as a student.
Brutalism is a loaded word and some struggle with its uncompromising boldness of form and unadorned materials. Yet all agreed that the exposed concrete-block construction using crushed Welsh limestone, contributed to the surprisingly warm character of the internal spaces. As with his design for the extension to the Department of Architecture, Sandy Wilson’s preoccupation with classical proportions is key to Grantchester Road’s harmonious feel.
Echoing the architect’s interest in supporting British artists of his generation, Maggie is keen to ensure that the house today remains a centre for artistic life. We greatly enjoyed the displays of painting and sculpture by Ruthie Martin and Ian Joyce who have worked in the house’s studio, as well as work by Robyn Reeves, Anne Smart and Tony Smart.
Our fascinating visit ended with refreshing drinks under the colonnade surrounding the loggia-like facade. Our gratitude goes to Maggie Smith for this privileged insight into one of Cambridge’s most important Modernist homes.
The Friends of Kettle’s Yard
The Friends of Kettle’s Yard were established in 1984 to provide financial support Kettle’s Yard. The community of Friends helps to conserve the house and collection, present ground-breaking exhibitions, develop exciting learning and community projects and make art accessible to all while also developing your own interest in art.
