Lews Castle
-
LocationStornoway, Western Isles
-
ClientWestern Isles Council
-
PhotographerIain McLeod
Introduction
The former derelict castle overlooks the town of Stornoway in the Outer Hebrides. Post redevelopment, the castle now hosts a new hotel as well as museum and cultural centre to keep the history of the Isle of Lewis alive.
Gallery
Background
This project involved the refurbishment and extension of a derelict historic castle to create a destination combining hotel and conference accommodation with a new museum and archive for the Western Isles. The development included a contemporary museum extension alongside the sensitive conservation and reuse of the existing castle.
Challenges
The scheme required careful integration of modern museum and archive facilities within a historic setting, with stringent environmental control needed to protect nationally and internationally significant artefacts, including the Lewis Chessmen and valuable paper archives. Balancing conservation requirements, visitor experience, hospitality functions and long-term sustainability was central to the project.
Solutions
Harley Haddow designed integrated MEP systems to deliver tightly controlled environmental conditions in accordance with PAS198, PD 5454 and National Museums of Scotland and British Museum guidelines. The castle refurbishment provided high-quality hotel accommodation, restaurant and bar facilities, while heating was supplied via a district heating network in partnership with Lews Castle College, supporting a transition from oil-fired boilers to a future biomass-based, low-carbon heat solution.
Project awards
Want to know more?
We’re always happy to chat through potential projects. If you have an enquiry drop us a line.
Get in Touch