IT’S been eight-long-years since the Commercial Hotel had some life about it but that’s all set to turn around when the new owners unveil it to the public in a matter of weeks.
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Part owner Justin Sibley, who has been overseeing much of the renovation with his father Robert Sibley, said it had been a difficult yet rewarding experience.
“It’s been a labour of love,” he said.
On a visit to town last year Justin and his fiancée saw the iconic local structure up for sale and said they were struck with how beautiful the area was.
A few queries, some research and a year and a bit later and the family’s hard-work is set to be open to the public.
“We wanted to try recreating the grandeur of it,” he said.
Mr Sibley said he strongly believed in the appeal Tenterfield had for tourists, but saw a market for additional dining and drinks.
“We’re hoping people will come along and experience it and grow and evolve with us,” he said.
At the heart of the business will be a craft beer and wine bar.
Parts of the building have been decorated to pay homage to its history, something the owners are keen to keep alive.
“We really wanted to create a unique space – create a space that reflects the heritage and old world charm of the building.”
- Commercial Boutique Hotel co-owner, Justin Sibley
From recycled timber and historic portraits to modern baths and outdoor dining, the group has set out to blend the best of the old with the new.
“We want to create a place where people will be comfortable,” Justin said.
The boutique hotel will offer eight rooms for accommodation as well as a restaurant and outdoor area.
One room is wheel chair friendly while the restaurant will aim to cater for around 30 diners.
“Initially we’ll have a share menu with tapas, share plates and some more wholesome options,” he said.
“In a few weeks we’ll start to have Friday and Saturday night dining.”
Since renovations began in September last year, Justin admits it’s been a colossal task bringing out their vision for the place.
“We’ve done some renovation works before but nothing like this.
“We knocked out around two tonne of bricks to give the rooms more space – a lot of thought has gone into it all.
“We’re very much hopeful we have created a space locals will love – we want it to be a part of Tenterfield.
Justin, Jodie, Robert, Colleen, Cassandra and Tim are the six who each has a hand in the business and Justin says Tim and Cassandra will be running the day to day operations.
Mr Sibley said that they owe a lot of thanks to all the local trades who have helped them to date.
“We’re very, very happy with how much people have supported us,” he said.
The group will hold a soft opening for the business with a definitive date to be confirmed soon.