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Reputed to be Greytowns earliest commercial building circa 1867, the residence and workshop of Charles Hornblow, cabinetmaker & joiner. The building was photographed in 1875 by James Bragg compiling his Wairarapa portfolio and Governor Sir George Grey, in honour of whom Greytown was named, is believed to have frequented the premises.
Sometime after, the building was used as a Townhouse by a member of the Bidwell Family nee Miss Marchant and has had many interesting uses since including a boarding house, antique shop, gallery and latterly the "Turkey Red" Café.
It was discovered during a restoration in 1980 the original construction was of heart totara with each piece having the appearance of being especially selected. The studs are the full two stories in height and mortised, tenoned then doweled into the top & bottom plates. There were no nails used to hold the original frame together. |
Prior to the building becoming registered with the NZ Historic Trust some unfortunate additions to the back of the building were allowed which were demolished in 2004 when the property underwent major renovations to recapture classic Victorian features together with stylish modern comfort.
Strict guidelines were adhered to by Architect Gina Jones and together with craftsman builder DR Borman successfully transformed the building back to its original splendour.
Opened 2005 to meet Greytowns current tourism boom, Briarwood provides apartment style suites combing a perfect balance between old & new with some clever attention to detail.
Accommodation options make Briarwood ideal for a romantic escape, family holiday or just pure indulgence. |
