A Paddington townhouse designed by one of Sydney’s most celebrated architects has been granted State Heritage protection, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
The residence at 8A Cooper Street, completed in 1980, was the third and final home that renowned architect Ken Woolley designed for himself and his wife, Virginia Braden Woolley. The couple lived in the property for seven years.
The three-storey dwelling stands out in the streetscape with its distinctive design inspired by an unexpected muse. According to Virginia, now chair of the Sydney International Piano Competition, the tower’s circular form represents the heel of a grand piano, reflecting her musical background and former aspirations as a concert pianist. The architectural tribute was kept secret by Woolley until completion.
From the street, the residence appears as a walled compound, but from the rear garden reveals a dramatic round tower rising through all three levels. This approach differs markedly from the Victorian terraces characteristic of the neighbourhood.
The Heritage Council of NSW has recognised the dwelling as representing postmodern residential design combined with Sydney School architectural principles. Sally Barnes, Chair of Heritage Council of NSW, emphasised Woolley’s remarkable versatility across different building types throughout his career.
“Beyond its eye-catching design lies a story of love and creativity,” Barnes noted in a media release, expressing hope that the listing would encourage both emerging and established architects to embrace innovative thinking.
The townhouse earned the prestigious Wilkinson Award for Residential Architecture in 1983, recognised at the time as the best new house in New South Wales.
The path to heritage recognition began in 2021 when Woollahra Municipal Council nominated the building, following its identification in a 2005 heritage study by Clive Lucas, Stapleton and Partners. The council had previously recognised the dwelling as having high local significance within the Paddington Heritage Conservation Area in 2004.
Woolley, who passed away in 2015, received Australia’s highest architectural honour when he was awarded the RAIA Gold Medal in 1993. His career spanned 60 years and included everything from project housing to major civic buildings.
The State Heritage Register listing ensures the property’s architectural significance will be maintained and protected under heritage conservation guidelines.
Published 6-November-2025
