Rebuild mission set in Stone House and chapel stained glass

Christchurch’s heritage-listed Old Stone House and Rose Historic Chapel will soon reopen their doors following an 18-month repair and restoration programme.

The Old Stone House will be handed back to the Council following extensive repairs and strengthening work and reopen early next year.

The chapel is expected to be finished by February 2018.

“Returning these precious heritage assets to the city has been our short-term aim for the community’s long-term gain,” Council Heritage Rebuild Programme Manager Richie Moyle says.

“The quality of the craftsmanship and attention to detail in the repairs and restoration work for both buildings can now be enjoyed by many generations to come.”

Nestled at the foot of the Port Hills, the Category II-listed Old Stone House was built in 1870 by Sir John Cracroft Wilson. It was rebuilt in 1979 by the community after fire damage.

A popular community facility and function venue complemented by stunning gardens and striking architecture, the Old Stone House was battered by the 2011 earthquakes.

Work on the restoration of the Old Stone House is nearly complete.

However, a comprehensive programme of works has saved the building.

“Walls have been upgraded and strengthened, roofing improved, seismic separation joints formed, ceilings replaced, masonry repaired and repointed, heating updated and accessibility enhanced,” Mr Moyle says. “A concrete ring beam has also been installed in the top of the walls at each end, retaining the exposed stonework to the exterior.”

Designed by Alfred and Sydney Luttrell, the Category II-listed Rose Historic Chapel – formerly known as the St Mary’s Convent Chapel – was built in 1910 in Colombo Street.

The chapel, which features spectacular stained glass windows, was severely damaged in the February 2011 earthquake when part of the gable walls collapsed.

“New foundation beams have been installed under the gable-end walls and the existing foundations tied in to these,” Mr Moyle says. “A wrought iron spiral staircase from the demolished Regent Theatre has already found a new home inside the historic chapel.”

The original staircase was damaged beyond repair.

“All the structural work has been completed,” he says. “Roof diaphragms have been created and the gable walls rebuilt. The marble altar is due to be reinstated and all the stained glass windows – including the special rose window – have been reconstructed.”

Council Operations Manager, Garden and Heritage Parks, Nicky Brown has welcomed the return of the heritage sites.

“With the Old Stone House soon to be back in action, and the chapel also reopening early next year, Christchurch will have two wonderful public sites open to the community,” Ms Brown says.