West Lodge
Case Study
In Early 2023 we were approached and asked to help restore an old Shepherd’s cottage in East Lothian. This project is a big one and is getting carried out over the space of a few years to spread costs. We will be carrying out a full restoration of the building and feel extremely privileged to be a part of this process as we get the chance to bring this old cottage completely back to life.
We have carried out three phases so far and are moving onto phase 4 in 2025.
Phase 1;
The first thing we carried out was to reinstate a wall that at some point must have been removed. (reason unknown). We also dressed and built a new window surround for this part of the building. There was already an old foundation of the original wall that once stood. So, we got straight to building the wall up to windowsill height using stone from around the cottage, some of which will most likely have been apart of the original wall at some point. After getting up to windowsill height we then built the new window surround that we dressed in our workshop to match the original detail found around the building. After the completion of the wall and window we pointed everything with lime mortar.
Phase 2;
The second phase consisted of replacing an existing window Surround found further round the building. The existing lintel was to stay in place as the roof will be coming off during a later Phase, so we thought it would be easier to just install a new lintel at this point as we will be able to get a better structural footing for the wall plate. We supported the existing lintel, cut out the old window surround and built in the new red sandstone surround. The detail for these windows has been dressed to match the original exactly. We have a double window with a centre mullion and 30mm splays all round. Finished with a droved face which gives the stone a nice textured finish.
Phase 3;
Phase three was to replace yet another window surround, this time on the gable end, along with installing new K9 lintels on the internal as the original wooden lintels were rotten. This window replacement was abit more structural as it was supporting a lot of weight above, including a chimney which wasn’t in a good state. For safety reasons we had the chimney removed before work commenced as we would be working directly underneath. We then put in support above the window consisting of poles shooting off the scaffolding and acro props on the internal. After the support was in place we cut out the old surround and built in the new red sandstone window. This Was officially the last of the windows completed, resulting in having three windows restored and back to original.
Contact Us
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.
R. French Stonemasonry is a small East Lothian based business with a passion for working with stone.
We carry out all aspects of stonemasonry, specialising in stone carving and restoration.
Quick Links
Company
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Trading & Registered Address:
11 stories Park
East Linton
EH40 3BN
East Lothian
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Managing Director: Ryan French
Registered in Scotland
Company No. SC 789306
VAT ID number: 471 5188 80
Opening Hours
- Monday-Sunday: 8am-8pm
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24hr Emergency service available.
(Even if it is to just make the area safe until the required works are able to be carried out.)
Get In Touch
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Email:
r.frenchstonemasonry
@yahoo.com - Phone: 07415513782