Restoration of Harleston Homestead

Restoration Of Harleston Homestead

Project 2023-03-05 11:45:22 +1300

The original Harleston Homestead suffered major damage during the Christchurch Earthquake in 2011, damaging a considerable amount of this Heritage Category 2 structure. The renowned Teviot limestone which cladded the homestead crumbled away and left the building unstable and unable to carry on being inhabited safely. The project intends to restore the glory of the property and be sympathetic to its heritage values and past as a bed and breakfast, providing warmth and friendly hospitality to those who pass and travel through the North Canterbury region. So far, the project has enlisted the support of a local stone mason to begin the restoration of the Teviot limestone features, the next phase about to commence will be the core earthquake strengthening of the homestead, with the final third stage being the fit out and conversion to return the property back to its bed and breakfast operation.

PHIL SMART

Phil has worked in the hospitality sector since he was 14 and worked with some of europes finest chefs and restaurateurs.

Having moved to Marlborough in 2006 to work at a renowned wineary, only to own one, some 15 years later.

"it is my wish that one day the vineyard and gardens will play a major part in the bed and breakfast menu when it really will be paddock to plate " 

But for the time being its attention to detail as we restore the bedrooms and reception rooms ready for our first guests.

ALLAN PATERSON

Horticulture has been my life for over the past 30 years, which makes being part of the redevelopment of Harleston such a pleasure.

It’s my intention to keep the planting in a similar age as the original house and putting a 2020’s twist on it.

The gracious home of Harleston, is nestled into its tree surroundings and it’s a matter of putting in the flags, flowers and fountains into it. This will boost the appeal of its long daffodil lawns, secret gardens, shrubberies, extensive organic vege garden and mindful rooms.

Along with my extensive knowledge of horticulture, (being the current chair of the Canterbury Horticultural Society. CHS) it’s our intention to involve the gardeners of Canterbury into Harleston house by providing the extensive CHS library housed within the house. Allowing the resource to be used by local and nationwide horticulturists.

There is room here for both theory and workshops to be completed on the grounds as has been previously by one of the past owners, via the vineyards.

Harleston House to become a fully functioning Bed and Breakfast, CHS Library, along with a venue for private meetings, groups, and small function center.

“It’s the Community that will make Harleston a Home”.

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