55+ preservation
Maxfield Inn: Preserving the Past, Securing the Future Historian, craftsman, entrepreneur Wayne Buchar gives Naples landmark new life By Melody Burri
P
eople tell Wayne Buchar his painstaking seven-year quest to resurrect a decaying historic landmark has been a labor of
love. He says they’re half right. “It hasn’t been labor, it’s been a fascinating journey,” said the host and owner of the newly and lovingly restored Maxfield Inn on Main Street in Naples. “Everything has been layered with history.”
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55 PLUS - September / October 2020
Buchar said he could see the grace and charm of the languishing 1841 classical revival mansion immediately, even as it lay in decay. “When I first walked through, there was nothing here except a grand piano, one light fixture, about half the radiators and two beautiful sets of cut glass doors that lead into the parlor,” said Buchar. “But I could see the beauty of it. Just walking around with all the cut glass in the doors and windows, the
place was sparkling. It was amazing. You just don’t see that anywhere.” Although the long-dormant building had ultimate potential, Buchar knew it would be a “money pit” in every sense. “You could climb outside through the basement,” he said. “The pipes — wrapped in asbestos — had frozen, the basement was flooded, the foundation was crumbling, there was a hole in the roof. It was so disgusting.”
