17th century Orkney Lairds House restored
January 14 2014
Howan House presented the conservation specialists with one of their toughest challenges yet in bringing the derelict ruin back to life in one of remotest spots in the UK.
This work entailed rebuilding and rendering rubble walls alongside the sensitive restoration of remaining period features such as fireplaces, doors and mouldings.
Listed on the Buildings at Risk Register the property has been under renovation by its current owners for the past two years and will be returned to a family home next month.
Photography by Leslie Burgher
Period features have been lovingly restored
The Lairds Home dates from 1635
The manse was in parlous condition prior to its acquisition by the present owners in 2009
The property enjoys expansive views across the island
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2 Comments
#1 Posted by ANDREW White on 6 Dec 2022 at 17:56 PM
I visited this place with my son's god parent in the early 90's. We nearly bought the place.. £40,000. There were sheep li ing underneath the house and I remember the inscribed lintol there 1635 a rose and a crown and in latin which George read to me..with permission and love of the king a genius built this.
#2 Posted by ross mcmanus on 20 Apr 2024 at 14:42 PM
aye a fine lairds house remembered from when a wee lad when grandpa McManus worked on island
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