Mary Austin Lists Freddie Mercury's Garden Lodge In Kensington For £30M

In a remarkable turn of events, Garden Lodge, the former residence of music legend Freddie Mercury, is now up for sale. Located in the affluent Kensington area of London, this Neo-Georgian-style estate is listed for £30 million (US$38 million). Mercury, the frontman of Queen who passed away in 1991, left the property to his friend and former fiancée, Mary Austin, who has resided there for approximately three decades.

A Home Steeped in History

Originally constructed in 1907 by architect Ernest Marshall for artist couple Cecil Rea and Constance Halford, Garden Lodge has a rich history. It was later owned by Peter Wilson, a former chairman of Sotheby’s, before Mercury purchased it in 1980. The property underwent renovations by interior architect Robin Moore Ede under Mercury's direction.

Elegance and Charm Inside

Internally, the residence boasts exquisite marble accents, luxurious wood floors, and vibrant jewel tones. Of particular note is the dining room, painted in Mercury's favorite color, a citrusy yellow. The double-height drawing room housed the grand piano where Mercury famously composed "Bohemian Rhapsody." Additionally, Mercury contributed to the design of the garden, which features magnolia trees and sculpted plantings.

A Piece of Cultural History for Sale

Mary Austin, reflecting on her time at Garden Lodge, expresses fond memories and describes it as a "glorious memory box." With her decision to sell, she hopes to pass on the sense of peace and artistry that the home embodies to its next owner. Knight Frank, handling the sale, emphasizes the property's exceptional provenance as a significant draw for potential buyers worldwide.

A Rare Opportunity for Buyers

Mary Austin's recent sale of Mercury's belongings at Sotheby’s, which sparked a bidding frenzy, suggests that interested buyers should act swiftly. Garden Lodge represents not just a property but also a piece of cultural history, offering a unique chance to own the beloved home of an icon.