Masonic to reopen as high-end boutique hotel in 2020
The 107-years-old historic Masonic Hotel, Cambridge has been awarded a $300,000 Heritage EQUIP upgrade works grant.
The second grant to this iconic Cambridge hotel is for the seismic strengthening aspects of the work to the building.
“This is the second of these grants awarded to assist with the seismic strengthening of this landmark building itself, including securing the parapets and chimneys and improving the floor and roof connections to the masonry walls,” Grant Robertson, Associate Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage says.
Earlier in May this year, the owners of Masonic Hotel were awarded a $36,900 grant to obtain professional advice enabling them to commission a detailed structural and architectural design for the building.
Built in 1912 to an Edwardian Classicism design by Auckland architect John Currie, the Masonic Hotel on Duke Street has provided hospitality to many locals and visitors to Cambridge.
Recently used as a backpackers, restaurant, gaming lounge and bar, the two-storey building has many historic features.
Once both the seismic strengthening and wider redevelopment of the property is complete, the owners plan to reopen the upgraded Masonic Hotel as a high-end boutique hotel in 2020.
“This round sees a total of 15 grants allocated – nine works grants and six professional advice grants. Overall 35 of the 54 grants have now been awarded for projects outside Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch,” says the Associate Minister.
“Over the nine rounds completed since early 2017 funding of $7.8 million has been awarded.
“Heritage buildings are integral to the character of New Zealand and two more funding rounds will be held prior to June 2020 to allocate the $2.4 million remaining in the Heritage EQUIP fund,” Grant Robertson says.
– from NewsViews
