Grant House - 8 The Parapet

Although financed by, and named after, the Melbourne theatre producer, Julius Grant, this house is more well-known as the residence of Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahoney Griffin, from 1925 until 1936. I showed you another shot of the front of this house during Theme Day.

As I clamber the paths and tracks of Griffin's original estate, it becomes increasingly clear, that the jungle is just itching to claim its own back. There is a massive dichotomy pervading the estate: maintain the vision; or, move with the times. One can see it in the houses, both their design and their maintenance. One can see it in the landscaping: run wild, or tame the savage beast. This is most evident at the rear of #8. A narrow access path down beside the garage leads to a fork. To the right, lies Turret Reserve. Straight ahead lies Lookout Reserve. Except thate the look no longer is 'out'. Houses have filled Griffin's blank canvas. The trees that Walter and Marion are thought to have personally planted at the rear of their home, have grown somewhat in 80+ years.

The rear of #8 has a charminly wild sense to it, backing onto the reserve as it does. But it is a tangled mass - not really mess. Perfect for climbing and chasing. Except I was there during school holiday time, and nary a child in sight. Lots of adults though: walking each other, walking a dog, jogging uphill.