2 Willow Road Hampstead London NW3

Experience the Modernist masterpiece of 2 Willow Road, Hampstead, London NW3. The visionary Hungarian-born architect Ernő Goldfinger designed it. Completed in 1939, the three-house terrace has become an iconic symbol of Modern Architecture. Since 1995, the National Trust has managed and preserved 2 Willow Road, welcoming the public to explore its remarkable interior. If you love Modernist Architecture, or you’re looking for interesting things to do in Hampstead, you’ll want to visit 2 Willow Road. If you’ve heard the Goldfinger name before, his Trellick Tower and London’s Metro Central Heights have achieved Grade II listed status. He also inspired Ian Fleming to create a James Bond villain, resulting in a threat of legal action from the architect himself! Intrigued? Read on to discover more.

2 willow road dining room window with objects — Credits: Twentieth Century Architects Series. Erno Goldfinger. 2 Willow Road, Camden, Greater London. Dining room, detail of window shelf and recessed fenestration. Terrace of three houses by Erno Goldfinger 1938. View from south-west.

2 Willow Road Modernist House Tour

Experience the essence of Ernő Goldfinger’s Modernist philosophy as you enter his home. Immerse yourself in every aspect of the house, from the meticulously designed interiors to the custom-made furniture and the curated collection of modern art. 2 Willow Road is a testament to Goldfinger’s clear vision, seamlessly integrating Modernist principles into a domestic living space.

2 willow road desk and study — Credits: Twentieth Century Architects Series, Erno Goldfinger. 2 Willow Road, Camden, Greater London. Detail of desk designed by Erno Goldfinger with shelving to office. Terrace of three houses by Erno Goldfinger 1938. View from the west.

Embark on a captivating journey through the house and explore the remarkable collection of modern art belonging to the Goldfinger family. Admire the works of renowned artists like Henry Moore, Max Ernst, and Bridget Riley. Notably, the dining area proudly showcases Bridget Riley’s captivating piece, Fugitive, crafted in 1962.

2 willow road Detail of ground floor front entrance showing glazed wall — Credits: Twentieth Century Architects Series. Erno Goldfinger. 2 Willow Road, Camden, Greater London. Detail of ground floor front entrance showing glazed wall. Terrace of three houses by Erno Goldfinger 1938. View from the south.

As you enter through the front door, you’ll be greeted by a carefully arranged space featuring a couple of chairs, a striking sculpture, and shelves adorned with intriguing objects.

Credits: A spiral staircase at 2 Willow Road, London.

The true highlight of the house is the breathtaking central spiral staircase designed by Danish engineer Ove Arup. This stunning architectural feature allows you to effortlessly navigate between each level, while its clever space-saving design will leave you in awe.

2 willow road dining room — Credits: Twentieth Century Architects Series. Erno Goldfinger. 2 Willow Road, Camden, Greater London. General view of the dining room. Terrace of three houses by Erno Goldfinger 1938. View from the east.

You’ll discover a charming dining room and a compact kitchen on the first floor. Take a moment to appreciate the objects thoughtfully displayed on the windowsill in the dining room, adding a touch of artistry to the space.

2 willow road desk — Credits: Twentieth Century Architects Series, Erno Goldfinger. 2 Willow Road, Camden, Greater London. Detail of desk with drawers open, designed by Erno Goldfinger, with shelving to office. Terrace of three houses by Erno Goldfinger 1938. View from the west.

This level also houses two home offices. The first office, situated next to the dining room, showcases Goldfinger’s remarkable black laminate-top desk with its unique pivoting drawers.

View from the studio to the living room at 2 Willow Road, Hamstead — Credits: View from the studio to the living room at 2 Willow Road; Erno Goldfinger’s house was designed and built by him in 1939.

Adjacent to it, you’ll find a workshop area on a raised platform, providing a glimpse into Goldfinger’s creative process.

Twentieth Century Architects Series Erno Goldfinger — Credits: Twentieth Century Architects Series. Erno Goldfinger. 2 Willow Road, Camden, Greater London. General view of the drawing room. Terrace of three houses by Erno Goldfinger 1938. View from the west.

Continue exploring the living room, where stunning back garden views greet you. Take in the beauty of the seating arrangements, the carefully selected artworks, and the objects elegantly displayed on a sideboard, exuding a sense of sophistication.

second study 2 willow road — Credits: Twentieth Century Architects Series. Erno Goldfinger. 2 Willow Road, Camden, Greater London. Detailed view of the study adjacent to the drawing room. Terrace of three houses by Erno Goldfinger 1938. View from the east.

Adjacent to the living room, a second study awaits. Step inside to discover a well-appointed desk and shelving filled with folders and paperwork, a testament to Goldfinger’s dedication to his work.

Main bedroom at 2 Willow Road, Hampstead, designed by Erno Goldfinger — Credits: Main bedroom at 2 Willow Road, Hampstead, designed by Goldfinger. The house was designed and built by Erno Goldfinger in 1939.

Venture further up the magnificent spiral staircase to the second floor, where you’ll find minimalist bedrooms and utilitarian yet stylish bathrooms. These spaces embody the functional simplicity at the core of Modernist design.

Top of staircase at 2 Willow Road, designed and built by Erno Goldfinger in 1939 — Credits: Top of the staircase at 2 Willow Road, designed and built by Erno Goldfinger in 1939. The photograph shows shelves, windows and a staircase.

Once you’ve concluded your exploration, retrace your steps and descend the spiral staircase, taking the inspiration and insight gained from experiencing the embodiment of Ernő Goldfinger’s Modernist vision.

Helpful Information About 2 Willow Road Hampstead London NW3

To learn more, visit the 2 Willow Road website and the 2 Willow Road Wikipedia Page. The full address is 2 Willow Road, Hampstead, London NW3 1TH. It’s a short walk from Hampstead Station (Northern Line) or Hampstead Heath Station (Overground). Tickets need to be pre-booked, which are available two weeks in advance. There is a guided tour or a free-flow visit at £10 per non-member adult. There are concessions available. Viewings are on Thursdays and Saturdays only from March until October. Please note there are no toilets, shop, refreshments or parking available.