A proud building in the heart of Marrickville, ‘Montrose House’ stands as a testament to the area’s rich history and community spirit. Built in 1916, this meticulously restored home occupies a generous 1258sqm corner block, showcasing timeless elegance and grandeur at every turn.

Once the residence and medical practice of prominent local figure Dr. Kennedy, the building has a storied past that resonates through its carefully preserved features and architectural details.

 

From the moment you step onto the tessellated-tile veranda, it’s evident that this is no ordinary home, now, and for its time. Leadlight windows cast dappled light across the spacious interiors, where soaring pressed metal ceilings create an atmosphere of sophistication and Old World Victoriana. The living and dining areas, adorned with ornate cornices and archways, exude warmth and character, with gas and timber fireplaces adding to the inviting traditional ambiance.

 

 

The heart of the home lies in its expansive kitchen, where some modern comforts meld with the style, equipped with an Ilve gas oven and dishwasher. It pays homage to the way this space would have been used, while catering for large-scale entertaining and family meals today. With four bedrooms, an office, and multiple living spaces/retreats, each wing offers a sense of tranquility from the buzzing village area.

 

 

Outside, the manicured grounds are an expansive place to explore, with level lawns and established gardens providing the ideal backdrop for a home of this calibre. A double garage with mezzanine storage and a vast main attic offer ample space, convenience and storage, while a gated driveway adds to the privacy and security.

Currently on the market and scheduled for auction, BresicWhitney selling agent Frederico Fraga-Matos says the home is among a handful of local houses that evoke such an emotional response.

“It’s the kind of offering that tells its own tale of Marrickville, while also inviting people to share their individual stories and memories of this area and its residents,” Frederico says.

“People want to experience these properties because they are inherently beautiful, they have a memory of visiting the home under its previous guise, or they want to share a piece of their history with you.”

Diving back into the story of ‘Montrose House’ take you outside its walls, and beyond the gardens. Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Marrickville Heritage Society, the well-documented history of this timepiece has also helped save others from developers, ensuring they can be passed on to their next custodians, and preserved in the streetscape for future generations to enjoy. From advocating for heritage listings to monitoring development applications, the Society has played a crucial role in protecting many of Marrickville’s architectural relics, from the neighbouring house to the Post Office.

Today, ‘Montrose House’ stands as a proud testament to the community’s dedication to preserving its past while embracing the future. Wandering these halls, it’s hard not to feel a sense of gratitude for those who fight to save these buildings, as well as a profound appreciation for its ongoing narrative.

View the listing: 321 Marrickville Road, Marrickville