A rare piece of Melbourne’s architectural history is up for sale, offering a unique opportunity for someone to become the custodian of a truly special residence. The property, located at 896-898 Swanston Street in Carlton, was originally built in 1868 as the home of renowned stonemason John W. Brown.
The house has been recognized by the National Trust as an example of the inner city’s early development, and its heritage craftsmanship is still evident today. The stonemason reportedly used offcuts from his work crafting headstones for the nearby cemetery throughout the house, including across the tessellated marble floors and fireplaces.
Terence Lane, a historian and curator at the NGV for more than 40 years, owned the home until his passing in 2024. His family has listed the legacy home for sale. The combination of its heritage craftsmanship and its prestigious position in the heart of Carlton resonated with him.
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Terence Lane had a long history with the house, having first tried to buy it at auction in 1968. He finally managed to purchase it in 2007, thanks to an introduction from his aunt, who lived two doors down. According to his son Hugh Lane, Terence had been waiting for the opportunity to own the house for nearly 40 years.
Hugh Lane recalls that his father used to drive them past the house as kids and tell them that one day he would like to live there. He adds that the previous owner wanted the home to go to someone who would love it as much as she did.
Restoration and Renovation
Following his purchase, Terence Lane undertook a full restoration of the interiors, meticulously updating everything from the door hardware to the wallpaper. A new dining room was also added in keeping with the Victorian’s original classical style, alongside renovating the home’s two bathrooms.
Hugh Lane says that his father was rather meticulous with the restoration and kept paint chips, wallpaper samples, and restored a mural in the front stairwell that makes the walls look like they are stone blocks. The renovations have given the house an immersive colour palette, switching from stately reds and gold to moss green accents.
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The house features a library located upstairs, and enough space for three cars to park off the rear laneway. The beautiful gardens and mature mulberry and pomegranate trees that envelop the property add to its charm.
A New Chapter
Hugh Lane says that it was his dad’s dream house, and he created his fantasy world within it. It’s time for the next chapter, and he is interested to see what that turns out to be. The property is listed for sale with David Sanguinedo from Jellis Craig Fitzroy and will go to auction on Saturday, September at 11am.
The sale of this property presents a unique opportunity for someone to own a piece of Melbourne’s history. As the city continues to grow and develop, it’s rare to find a property that has been so meticulously restored and maintained. They will have the chance to put their own mark on the property, while still respecting its heritage and history.