389 Princes Street, Dunedin

Redevelopment of a burntout derelict building into premium accommodation, retail and hospitality space

At the serious risk of demolition following a devastating fire in 2011, 389 Princes Street (archaeological site I44/820) was purchased by NZHP in 2015. At the time, it had severe internal damage with the loss of many floors and walls and the roof was temporary scaffolding.

The building was constructed circa 1863 by Henry Smith Fish Jnr for his decorating business and designed by prominent architect R.A Lawson. In 1876, Princes Street was widened and building owners along this side of the road had to move their buildings back to the new street line. During this process, instead of demolishing the building, the facade of 389 Princes Street was removed and redesigned by architect Winchester into a uniform development with the two neighboring properties.

It is scheduled under the Dunedin District Plan (Building B495, Appendix A.1.1) and is also included within the South Princes Commercial Heritage Precinct (Section 13, Appendix A.2). This precinct is strongly defined by the abundance of Victorian commercial buildings originally located on the Dunedin foreshore until the reclamation.

Redevelopment involved seismic strengthening, new roof and complete reconstruction of the interior. There are two apartments and Bride and Winter bridal boutique facing Princes Street and iconic Dunedin brewery Steamer Basin Brewery into No Name Alley on the Bond Street side.

If you are interested in renting the apartments, you can contact the property managers direct at Dunedin Short Stays or find the listings on Airbnb here.

Bride & Winter Bridal Boutique occupies the Princes Street retail premises, a space designed specifically for owner Alana to create a premier bridal destination for brides throughout the region. If you would like to know more about her fabulous offerings, you can check them out here.

Hidden in the Bond ¼ down No Name Alley, the lower levels of 389 Princes Street are home to Steamer Basin Brewery and Tap Room. This space has been designed specifically for Paul and Karen so they can celebrate local brewing at a one-of-a-kind destination. At the brewery and taproom you can enjoy beer and pizza inside the working brewery. For more information on discovering this local gem, check them out here.