Modernism by the River: Cruise to Peter McIntyre's River House

Step aboard for a rare mid-20th-Century architectural encounter. Take a short cruise along the Birrarung from Richmond Landing to Peter McIntyre’s iconic River House in Kew – a masterpiece of Australian modernism poised above the riverbank.

Arrive as intended, by water, rounding a gentle bend in the river before stepping onto this remarkable site. Suspended among the trees, the house reveals its daring structural form, glass-lined living spaces and seamless connection to the landscape.

Enjoy an exclusive one-hour tour and discover how Peter McIntyre redefined residential design in post-war Melbourne.

A rare opportunity to experience a heritage-listed icon from the river up.

Presented by the City of Boroondara in collaboration with Peter McIntyre.

Schedule

Capacity is limited to 36 spaces each session.

Boat transfer takes around 10 to 15 minutes each way. Seats on the boat are limited.

Session 1 schedule

• From 9:30 to 11:35 am
  • Boat departs Richmond Landing at 9:45 am sharp
  • House tour runs from 10:00 to 11:00 am
  • Boat departs River House jetty at 11:15 am sharp

Session 2 schedule

• From 10:30 am to 12:35 pm
  • Boat departs Richmond Landing at 10:45 am sharp
  • House tour runs from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
  • Boat departs River House jetty at 12:20pm sharp.

What you need to know

Accessibility: This site is physically demanding. You must be able to step on and off a boat and walk up and down steps and slopes. There is a limited amount of seating on the boat. The tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or prams.

Clothing: Wear sturdy shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.

Weather: The event will proceed in light rain.

Recommended age: 13 years and over with parental supervision.

How to get there

By car: Limited on-street parking is available along Creswick Street, between Creswick Street Reserve and Yarra Bank Reserve. From there, walk across the Hawthorn Bridge pedestrian path to O’Connell Reserve, near the Amore Hotel. Follow the path towards the Birrarung and down the steps to Richmond Landing.

By tram: Take Route 75 (Vermont South) or Route 78 (North Balwyn) and get off at the Yarra Boulevard/Bridge Road stop. From there, walk across the Hawthorn Bridge pedestrian path to O’Connell Reserve, near the Amore Hotel. Follow the path towards the Birrarung and down the steps to Richmond Landing.

By bike: Richmond Landing is just off the Main Yarra Trail. Bicycles are not permitted on the boat so please park securely nearby.