Argyll's Lodging, Stirling
In 1994, Historic Scotland commissioned Simpson & Brown to restore Argyll's Lodging in Stirling, the best surviving example of a Renaissance period nobleman's house in Scotland. The scheme comprised the fully restored and furnished apartments of the 9th Earl of Argyll, associated interpretation and retail facilities and four self-contained flats.
Following an initial phase of inspection and investigation, the second phase of work began in 1996. Modern gypsum plaster was removed, renewed with lime plaster and lime washed. The main stair was grained, new stone floors laid and new joinery fitted throughout the building.
Work on the interior involved specialist design of the historic furniture and furnishings based upon an inventory of 1682, which listed the entire contents of the house at that time. These items, including ceramics, glassware and tapestries, were carefully reproduced. The restored decoration of the High Dining Room was based on the remains of the trompe l'oeil murals on the north wall.
The project received considerable support and funding from the partners of the Stirling Initiative and the European Regional Development Fund and is seen as a key strategic development in the environmental and economic regeneration of Stirling.
