AAFTER the annual holiday break, and welcome month of dust-free silence for longbeleaguered neighbours, construction work continues apace at the Piano Factory development in Bain Street, Wellington.
The landmark building, constructed in 1926, was originally the site of the Hugo Jam Factory (still fondly remembered by Wellington’s older residents).
It later housed the famous Dietmann Piano concern, which was - in its heyday - not only the largest piano manufacturer in the Southern Hemisphere, but the seventh biggest in the world. The last pianos were produced in 1989.
Demolition of the structure began in March last year and took several months to complete, with only the historic gabled façade being retained.
Basic construction of the sprawling residential cluster-complex is now well underway, and finishing touches are currently being added to three new gables, which match the originals in shape and size.
The completed Aslo Properties development will consist of 125 apartments, varying from one-room bachelor apartments, to one-bedroom loft units, as well as larger one and two bedroom units with small gardens.
Most of the units have already been sold.
