Economy House sits on land granted to Joseph Ellerby, pensioner of the 83rd Regiment, in April 1832. Originally a butcher’s shop, it later became private residence. The property's name is thought to have come from a cartage contractor who owned it at the turn of the twentieth century, carting good to an ‘economy’ depot in Hobart. The property has passed through many hands over the decades with links to some significant local and more broadly known names, including: Paramore, Butcher, Moran, Grice, Crowther, Wiggins, and Griffiths.

It was purchased in 1975 by the current owners, Bevis and Jan Ross. When the Rosses bought the house, it was dilapidated and suffering from insensitive alterations. They commenced a decades-long restoration process that included replastering walls, reinstating the attic windows, lining rooms with Baltic pine and upgrading kitchen and bathroom facilities. The restored and updated house is a delightful reflection of its heritage combined with contemporary family requirements.

The Rosses started their garden with a blank canvas, which included several neglected paddocks. Their aim was to create a family-friendly garden for all to enjoy: an area was dedicated to games of cricket and football, there's a magnificent climbing tree, a cubby house, workshop, and plenty of room for pets. The garden has evolved over the years as garden rooms were created garden, productive and decorative plantings established, and display items were collected, inherited and made.

Come and have a peak at this sprawling delight and catch a behind-the-scenes walk through the grounds.

In conjunction with Richmond 200, Open House Hobart is super excited to announce Open House Richmond. This special one-off event will be held on Saturday 24 + Sunday 25 February 2024, and will form part of an extensive program that celebrates Richmond’s bicentenary. Open House Hobart is an annual architecture program that opens some of Tasmania’s most unique buildings to the public, including private homes and historic buildings across lutruwita Tasmania. We acknowledge that Open House takes place on the land of the traditional owners of lutruwita (Tasmania) and pay respects to the palawa people, Tasmanian Aboriginal Community and to Elders - past, present and emerging.

For detail of the full Open House Richmond 2024 program, head to openhousehobart.org/richmond

Ticket Conditions

Bookings open TBC.  Tickets are free but are also limited and in high demand – if you are unable to attend please cancel your ticket via booking link or contact the Open House Hobart team: tas@architecture.com.au