The former Dungog Inn is the talk of the town since renovations and facelift of the historic building have been unveiled.
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The oldest surviving building in Dungog’s main street was built by former convict James Stephenson and opened for business in 1840.
James Stephenson’s interest in the inn lasted until his death in 1865.
In the 1870s the inn passed to the Redman family and was used as a boarding house, post office and residence until 1984 when the property was purchased by McMahon and McMahon solicitors.
New owners Maria and Marc Francisci bought the building in 2007 from Gregan McMahon.
“We liked the building but were pretty naive about work that would eventually need to be done,” Maria said.
“We had plans to lease it out with the Catbird Gallery originally going in the front and the back part was a residence.
“It had been vacant for five years when we looked at repairing it.”
They engaged architect Erich Kladnig from Vacy who guided the Franciscis through the process.
“It had been vacant for so long and it wasn’t safe to put people in there,” Maria said.
“But we had to start somewhere and with Erich’s enthusiasm and confidence it was worth the effort and worth persevering with.
“We started three years ago with the sub-floor and then a development application for the rest of the works was put in two years ago.
“In February we started off with the roof for which we needed specific approval and also the painting, fencing, landscaping and repairs to the windows.
“The new floors are from Dungog spotted timber and we are very pleased with the final outcome.
“The sub-floor was the worst as there were drainage issues and while the roof was environmentally sound, it was a big job getting the shingles off.”
The building is of Georgian design and originally had a bellcast roof.
“This was replaced in the 20th century with a bullnose roof,” Maria said.
“We restored the original roof profile so it reflects its Georgian origins.
“We were pleased to be able to use local contractors for the majority of the work with Neville Bale, Kearney Electrical, Jack Alison, Dylan Wade, Zac Curry, Dugald Alison to remove the shingles and Country Elegance Gardens for the landscaping.
“I think it is important to use locals wherever possible and they did a fantastic job.”
The building is classified for commercial use and has been listed with Dillon and Sons Real Estate for lease.