Observant readers may recognize the Edwardian residence nestled in Kensington, once the cherished abode of the iconic Freddie Mercury, lead vocalist of the legendary band Queen. A connoisseur of art and culture, Freddie curated an extensive collection of costumes, artworks, furnishings, and literature, which he bequeathed, along with the residence itself, to his dear friend Mary Austin. Last year, Sotheby’s orchestrated a highly anticipated auction of the majority of his collection, fetching an impressive sum of approximately £40 million. Presently, the stately home has been put on the market discreetly, inviting offers from pre-approved buyers starting at £30,000.
Dubbed “Garden Lodge,” this historic dwelling was envisioned by architect Ernest Marshall in 1907 for artists Cecil Rea and Constance Halford. Mercury, captivated by its allure, acquired the property in 1980 following his initial visit, promptly sealing the deal. Nestled within a serene enclave in Kensington, it served as his sanctuary, affectionately referred to as his “country house in central London.”
To actualize his vision of escapism, Freddie collaborated with interior designer Robin Moore Ede, crafting a lavish and eclectic ambiance within the classically designed estate. The original double-height artists’ studio metamorphosed into a sumptuous drawing room, complemented by a wrap-around gallery converted into a library-cum-bar, offering panoramic views of the space below. It was within this very drawing room that Freddie’s grand piano resided, the instrument upon which he arguably composed his magnum opus, “Bohemian Rhapsody,” later fetching £1.7 million at Sotheby’s auction.
Touches reminiscent of Mercury’s upbringing in Zanzibar adorn the residence, evident in the sunshine-yellow hues gracing the hallway and dining area, accentuated by geometric cornices designed by Freddie, adorned in a vibrant palette of greens, pinks, and golds.
Beyond the main hall lies the Japanese sitting room, named, perhaps, for the garden accessible through French doors. This Japanese walled garden, lovingly tended to by Freddie’s partner, Jim Hutton, blooms with vibrant flora. Upstairs, eight bedrooms await, with the primary suite accessed through a dressing room boasting mirrored floors and ceilings.
Reflecting on her time in the residence, Mary Austin reminisces, “The house exudes love and warmth in every corner, yielding countless cherished memories.” For any prospective buyer possessing at least £30 million, this acquisition transcends mere property ownership, offering an impeccably preserved slice of history steeped in grandeur and nostalgia.