Hidden fireplaces and a wall arch were some of the surprising "joys" uncovered during the restoration of a landmark in Dubbo's Macquarie Street.
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The Exchange - Clock Tower gradually revealed its architectural secrets to owner Jillian Kilby and the team of tradies she led in bringing the building back to life.
Ms Kilby bought the 129-year-old property from Telstra in November 2018, saying she felt privileged to care for it and pledging "no shortcuts" would be taken in its restoration.
As the project reached completion this month, engineer Ms Kilby's message was it was rewarding work but could not be taken lightly.
"Our heritage buildings are so important and you have to love your building to do this, because there are no shortcuts in heritage renovation. You have to be in it up to your elbows to be successful," she said.
Ms Kilby's plan for the building is as a co-working space that can be leased by people starting or scaling businesses.