9/2/228/0152

This is a large symmetrical three gabled villa, raised on a stone podium. The wide verandah which enfolds the house on three facades creates the Colonial or "homestead" quality. It is well proportioned with the central double order of columns extended upwards and made to celebrate the upstairs balcony. While very much influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, it has elements of German vernacular architecture. It was designed by Kallenbach and built in 1911. The main historical value of the house lies in its embodiment of the social standing of people such as the Marks family. The first owner was Mrs Rosie Gordon (nee Heymann) who had bought the property in November 1909. Little is known of Rosie and Brian Gordon beyond their involvement in horse-racing. Mr Gordon was a member of the Turf Club. In 1919 the property was registered under the name of Miss F. B. Marks, born in Pretoria 1897, daughter of the famous Sammy Marks. Presumably her father had bought it for her prior to her marriage to Israel Maisels, a medical specialist, because from 1922 until 1943 the property was registered in the names of FB & I Maisels. The property was sold during the war to a Mr McGregor who remained there until 1958 when it was bought by the Genns family, the present owners.