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Rising from the ashes: new plans for Awaba House

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A terrace for outdoor dining, a boutique dining and restaurant space and a new covered walkway are part of a proposed concept design that will see Awaba House rise from the ashes on the shores of Lake Macquarie.

Lake Macquarie City Council’s Manager Property and Business Development, David Antcliff, said the revitalised heritage building would provide a vibrant dining and functions venue, adjacent to the newly renovated Museum of Art and Culture.

“The concept design is based on extensive community consultation we’ve undertaken for the site since fire caused major damage in August 2019,” Mr Antcliff said.

“We’re proposing to retain and restore the historically significant external form and features of the building, with changes to the internal layout for a modern restaurant and function space.

A potential entry way adjacent to the Museum of Art and Culture (MAC). Image: Lake Macquarie City Council

“The plans also include a small kiosk and a new terrace to the east of the building providing sheltered outdoor seating, where diners will be able to soak up the stunning lakeside vistas.”

Lake Macquarie Mayor, Kay Fraser, said the project would deliver a more vibrant outdoor dining experience, creating a major drawcard for visitors and locals alike.

“We need to make the most of this prime location and enhance the experience for those visiting our city through a contemporary, vibrant and engaging design,” Cr Fraser said.

Have your say on the concept design here.

The site of Awaba House forms part of land at Teralba originally granted to Captain James Ranclaud.

The current building, built in 1927, is known as the third Awaba House.

The first was also burned down during 1886. The following year, a new house was erected on the site, but it was demolished four decades later to make way for an even grander residence.

Lake Macquarie City Council acquired the property in November 1995 from the Hunter Area Health Service as a temporary home for the city’s art gallery.

The gallery originally occupied Awaba House on this site from 1996 to 2000, when a decision was made to construct the new state-of-the-art facility.

In more recent times, Awaba House had been operating as a café and restaurant.

Awaba House after a blaze tore through the heritage building in August 2019. Image: Lake Macquarie City Council

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