The detail
Evoking the spirit of its past but with a modern twist, the restoration of Lews Castle has returned this Stornoway centrepiece to its period splendour. Unoccupied for 40 years, the reawakened Castle, with its refreshed reception rooms and repaired high-quality bedrooms, essentially mimics its original use – that of a grand social venue. Despite the intricacy of our conservation programme, including the implementation of traditional paint techniques to restore the Victorian era decorative schemes, the project was completed within a 76-week timeframe.
With a new glazed roof over the inner courtyard, works also included the construction of an escape stair, lift lobby and roof corrections. Complementing the Castle, and its picturesque landscape, we also constructed a new build museum, archive facility, shop and ancillary accommodation.
The demolition of the childcare centre, extensive external works, landscaping and the formation of a car park were further important elements of the award-winning development that strengthens the island’s visitor offer.
