PHOTO: Freddie Mercury. ENTERTAINMENT WEEKLY
Forget fantasy; reality has something even more captivating in store. The cherished residence of the late music legend Freddie Mercury is now on the market.
Nestled in London’s prestigious Kensington enclave, Garden Lodge has been listed for £30 million (US$38 million). Once owned by the former Queen frontman, who passed away in 1991 at the age of 45, this Neo-Georgian-style estate and all its contents were bequeathed to his close friend and former fiancée, Mary Austin. For nearly three decades, Austin has lovingly inhabited and maintained the property, but she is now prepared to bid farewell to this revered abode.
“This home is a treasure trove of memories, imbued with love and warmth in every corner,” remarked Austin in a press release. “Living here has been an absolute joy, filled with countless cherished moments. As it sits empty now, I’m transported back to the very first time we set foot in it.”
Knight Frank; George Wilkes/Hulton Archive/Getty Images
Originally constructed in 1907 by architect Ernest Marshall for the artistic duo Cecil Rea and Constance Halford, the stately brick residence has had its share of illustrious owners, including Peter Wilson, a former chairman of Sotheby’s. According to Knight Frank, the agency handling the sale, Mercury made an impulsive purchase of the property in 1980 and later engaged interior architect and designer Robin Moore Ede to enhance its grandeur.
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Internally, the house boasts opulent marble accents, sumptuous wood flooring, and vibrant jewel tones throughout. Notably, the dining room walls are adorned with a citrusy yellow hue—the singer’s personal favorite. Among its features is the double-height drawing room, where Mercury housed the grand piano famously used in composing “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Mercury also played a role in designing the garden, which showcases majestic magnolia trees and carefully sculpted greenery.
“Since Freddie and I first crossed its threshold, Garden Lodge has been a sanctuary, a true haven for artists. Now, it’s time to pass on that sense of sanctuary to its next custodian,” expressed Austin.
“The sale of Garden Lodge offers a rare chance to own not only a remarkable property but also a piece of cultural heritage—the cherished home of an icon,” remarked Paddy Dring, global head of prime sales and joint head of Knight Frank’s Private Office. “With meticulous preservation and care over the past three decades, we anticipate that the property’s exceptional history will be immensely appealing to buyers worldwide.”
The late Freddie Mercury helped create the garden at his home in London.KNIGHT FRANK
Last year, Austin auctioned off a collection of Mercury’s belongings through Sotheby’s, sparking a frenzy of bidding. Given this precedent, potential buyers would be wise to act swiftly.
SOURCE: ROB REPORT