The Marzoni House
A Queen Anne Castle in Old East Hill
by Kelly Oden
Nestled in the heart of the historic Old East Hill Preservation District, the Marzoni House offers up a lovely example of Queen Anne Victorian elegance and a slice of Pensacola history. Originally built in 1890 by Louis D. Marzoni, chief lumber inspector for lumber tycoon Henry Baar, this one-
of-a-kind home exemplifies the quality materials and workmanship so often seen in homes from that era. In fact, The United States Department of the Interior placed the Marzoni House on the prestigious National Register of Historic Places in 2016, a testament to its superb craftsmanship, historic preservation and structural integrity.
Henry Baar and his lumber company were instrumental in shaping Pensacola's development, both via the much-needed lumber for building (and the jobs the lumber mill provided) and by way of more diplomatic channels. During the tumultuous times of the Spanish American War in 1898, the Baar residence played host to the Austrian/Hungarian Consulate, while the Marzoni House itself served as the Spanish Consulate—an interesting piece of history connected to this unique property.
Fast forward to 2014, and the Marzoni House stood at a crossroads, facing foreclosure and impending demolition. The porches were in a state of decay, and from the outside, the house seemed destined for the wrecking ball. However, as fate would have it, Bruce Block and Tony Rhodes ventured inside and instantly fell in love with home. Despite its need for extensive repairs and renovations, the allure of this stunning Queen Anne home was irresistible. With a passion for restoring historic properties and a wealth of remodeling and restoration expertise, Block and Rhodes embarked on a mission to resurrect this architectural treasure, breathing new life into its timeless beauty.
The estate, sprawling across 7,500 square feet, comprises two distinct buildings housing 14 bedrooms and 13.5 bathrooms. In 2014, the original main house underwent a meticulous restoration, preserving its character and charm. While previous owners introduced some modern conveniences by adding updated bathrooms, Block and Rhodes remained steadfast in their commitment to preserving the historical integrity of the home. A matching carriage house, artfully crafted to replicate the original, was completed in 2022. Today, both structures operate as a unique Airbnb experience, and the property has earned the distinction of a Five-Star Superhost.
Block and Rhodes didn't stop at the detailed restoration and addition of the carriage house. They extended their vision to include a heated, saltwater gunite pool with an attached infinity spa, nestled within a picturesque cobblestone courtyard adorned with lush, tropical landscaping—a true oasis of tranquility.
The original Queen Anne design exudes grandeur on three stories, boasting six suites and six and a half baths. The crown jewel is a suite within the cedarwalled turret, complimented by a fourth story loft.
The old-growth heart pine floors throughout the home were sourced from the Baar lumber yard and lend an enduring, historic charm to the interiors.
The matching carriage house addition expands the Airbnb potential and features seven rooms with luxurious ensuite baths, all with French doors overlooking the pool.
The kitchen is a chef’s dream with luxury finishes and top-tier appliances, including a Sub-Zero refrigerator, KitchenAid double ovens, a Wolf Gas Range, granite countertops and custom wood cabinets. Bespoke tile accents, a butcher block island and a custom vent hood contribute to the kitchen's overall charm.
Just off the kitchen, the unique indoor/outdoor veranda runs across the back wall. Created from the original back porch, the veranda boasts three sets of French doors that open to reveal the peaceful pool and patio.
The Marzoni House in Old East Hill Preservation District is not just a house, it also serves as a testament to the value of historic preservation an architectural gem lovingly restored by Block and Rhodes, ensuring its unique wonders continue to inspire generations to come.
The Marzoni house marks the 100th renovation project for Block and Rhodes. The couple has decided to place the property on the market and to pass the torch to the next caretaker, who, incidentally, will be only the sixth owner in the home’s 133-year history. For more information on the property, contact Cameron Weaver with Levin Rinke Realty at 850-287-7793.
