Work has finally started on the restoration of the historic Paragon cafe in Katoomba Street, six years after it closed down. / (min cost $ 0 ) or signup to continue reading Hoardings have been erected with large "Under restoration" signs painted on them. The work is likely to cost more than $700,000.
The Friends of the Paragon welcomed the "exciting" news and look forward to seeing the 115-year-old building restored to its former glory. A 2020 DA for $358,000 worth of work outlined the need to address the inadequate subfloor system, instal subfloor ventilation and replace water-damaged floorboards, wall, veneer and roof. Last month, a construction certificate and architectural plans were lodged for $730,300 of works, referring to floor and subfloor work.
The plans reveal the extent of the repairs needed. The parquetry floor will be lifted and individual pieces numbered, much in the manner of a giant jigsaw puzzle. replacement wall panelling will be matched to existing joinery work, as per the detailed heritage report.
Existing mirrors and other fittings will be protected and made good to match undamaged ones in the building. And moveable heritage items will be temporarily stored in the grand hall while repairs are undertaken. The work on the heritage-listed art deco buildling is being carried out by NBRS Architecture, based in Milsons Point in Sydney.
The Paragon closed in May, 2018, after a dispute between the business's owner, Robyn Parker, and the building's owner, Sydney .
