Step into the enchanting world of Eryldene Historic House & Garden. Picture this beautiful house nestled in the Sydney suburb of Gordon. Eryldene isn’t just a house it’s a living testament to a remarkable collaboration. It’s a story woven from the threads of an architect’s vision and a professor’s passion. This architectural masterpiece was designed by William Hardy Wilson. He was a leading figure in the Colonial Revival movement. The house was built between 1913 and 1936 for Professor Eben Gowrie Waterhouse and his wife Janet. Professor Waterhouse a linguist and renowned camellia expert profoundly shaped Eryldene’s character.
Eryldene’s design is a harmonious blend of Georgian Revival architecture adapted for the Australian climate. The single-story brick house boasts a symmetrical facade. A central path leads to a verandah supported by elegant beechwood columns. The hipped roof adds a touch of simplicity that contrasts with the more elaborate gables often favored by Wilson. This reflects Professor Waterhouse’s direct influence on the design. The simple roof is a clever adaptation making the house more suited to the Australian sun.
But Eryldene is more than just a house. Its garden is a mesmerizing extension of the house itself. The garden was a collaborative effort designed by both Wilson and Professor Waterhouse. The layout is geometrical yet informal. It’s a carefully planned series of outdoor rooms. These rooms are furnished with an impressive collection of camellias azaleas and other carefully chosen plants. Many camellias were collected by Professor Waterhouse during his travels to Japan and China. Each plant bears its original label some in Japanese or Chinese characters. This collection is a living museum representing the evolution of camellia cultivation.
Eryldene’s garden structures further enhance its charm. Wilson designed the temple in the front garden and the garden study fountain and pigeon house. Other structures include a charming teahouse and a moon gate adding an oriental touch. Large trees including jacarandas and Sydney red gums provide a backdrop to the vibrant flowers. The garden’s original layout was a semi-formal cottage garden. However it evolved under Professor Waterhouse’s expert hand. It became a world-renowned collection showcasing over 700 camellia varieties. The garden continues to be a resource for camellia study today.
Professor Waterhouse’s love for camellias is a significant part of Eryldene’s story. In 1914 he managed to acquire twelve advanced Camellia japonica plants. Six were planted at Eryldene. The remaining six were gifted to the architect Hardy Wilson. His passion even led him to rescue camellias from demolition sites. His dedication to camellias played an important role in the revival of their popularity. This passion transformed Eryldene’s garden from a simple cottage garden into a world-renowned camellia haven.
Today Eryldene stands as a significant heritage property listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register. The Eryldene Trust preserves and maintains it. The house and gardens are open to the public offering a glimpse into a bygone era. As you stand here you can almost feel the spirit of Professor Waterhouse and architect Wilson. Their shared vision has created a place of unique beauty and historical importance. Eryldene’s story is a testament to the enduring power of collaboration and passion. A living legacy for generations to come.