Serving East Lothian, Edinburgh & surrounding areas · 24hr emergency service available
Case study
West Lodge
The phased restoration of an old shepherd’s cottage, bringing it back to life one stage at a time.
Location
East Lothian
When
2023 – ongoing
The project
Project overview
In early 2023 we were asked to help restore an old shepherd’s cottage in East Lothian. This is a big project, carried out over a few years to spread the cost. We are carrying out a full restoration of the building and feel privileged to be part of bringing this old cottage completely back to life.
01
Phase 1
First, we reinstated a wall that had been removed at some point (reason unknown), and dressed and built a new window surround for this part of the building. The foundation of the original wall was still there, so we built the wall up to windowsill height using stone from around the cottage – some of which will most likely have been part of the original wall.
We then built the new window surround, dressed in our workshop to match the original detail found around the building. Once the wall and window were complete, we pointed everything in lime mortar.
02
Phase 2
The second phase was replacing an existing window surround further round the building. The existing lintel was kept in place, as the roof will come off in a later phase and a new lintel will then give a better structural footing for the wall plate. We supported the lintel, cut out the old surround and built in the new red sandstone surround.
The detail was dressed to match the original exactly: a double window with a centre mullion and 30mm splays all round, finished with a droved face that gives the stone a textured finish.
03
Phase 3
Phase three replaced another window surround, this time on the gable end, along with new K9 lintels on the inside, as the original wooden lintels were rotten. This window was more structural, supporting a lot of weight above, including a chimney that was in poor condition. For safety, the chimney was removed before work started, as we would be working directly underneath.
We put support in above the window, with poles from the scaffolding and acro props inside, then cut out the old surround and built in the new red sandstone window. This completed the windows: three restored and back to original.
From our portfolio
Project gallery
Case studies
More case studies
North Berwick Pillars
A new entrance with three red sandstone pillars, a carved house name, a built-in post box and new walling.
Learn more →
Bayswell Hotel, Dunbar
Entrance pillars and a dwarf wall rebuilt in polished Corsehill sandstone after being knocked down by a delivery vehicle.
Learn more →
The Square, East Linton
First-floor window stonework brought back to life: new mullions, jamb replacements, indent repairs and a full lime re-point.
Learn more →
Have a similar project in mind?
Get in touch for friendly, honest advice and a free estimate.
Contact us
Let’s discuss your project
Whether you’re planning a new build, restoration, or custom stone feature, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch to discuss your project and receive expert advice.
Call
07415 513782
Monday–Saturday: 8am–8pm
Sunday: Closed
24hr emergency service available, even if it is just to make the area safe until the required works can be carried out.