Compass Building were appointed as principal contractor, on a design and build contract, to oversee the sympathetic re-development and restoration of the category B listed building that is 51-53 Castle Street by the Highland Housing Alliance (HHA).
As one of the oldest Merchant’s Houses in Inverness, there was a large emphasis placed on the historic legacy and detailing of the building. The original building located at 51-53 Castle Street was constructed in the early 18th century and was home to a coal merchant who imported coal for the British Government at Fort Augustus.
To the rear of Merchant House, lies a courtyard that was once used by many families living in Castle Street homes. Contained within the courtyard remains a historic gateway with an entrance to a staircase that formerly led to Ardconnel Terrace.
Following completion of the project Housing and Property Committee Chair and Provost of Inverness, Cllr Glynis Sinclair, said: “53 Castle Street is steeped in history, and it was fitting that this iconic building was restored to its former glory to allow for its legacy to continue for generations to come”.
“The sympathetic restoration, design and attention to detail has undoubtedly brought back to life a key historic building to the City of Inverness and is a prime example of how old historic buildings can and should be repurposed to create beautiful new homes and commercial spaces.”
Initially, the building was stabilised and protected through the pro-active work of the Council’s Building Standards Service before the redevelopment process began. Both phases of work were completed by Inverness based contractor, Compass Building and Construction Services.
A first-of-its-kind approach to re-development in Inverness, this includes conservation of the existing external staircase, where a new modern-day courtyard with communal space and recycling points have been built around.
A historic plaque built into a lintel above the staircase, with the phrase ‘FeirGod, dvtnot’ (Fear God, doubt not), etched into the stonework was carefully removed and preserved prior to being incorporated in the doorway leading to the new courtyard space.
The original façade stonework was carefully and systematically taken down stone by stone, placed into storage and then re-built in precisely the same format to ensure that the original building is preserved, as originally constructed, for generations to come.
The unique nature of the building works has also helped to maintain the original character of the building, in keeping with the wider streetscape which is overlooked by the historic Inverness Castle.
The original slate roofing was also carefully set aside for re-use in the restoration process.
Merchant House now features a mix of seven one-bed flats and one two-bed penthouse apartment, helping to address the demand for high-quality rental opportunities in Inverness.
Developed and now managed by local developer, HHA, the one-of-its-kind re-development is a prime example of upholding a building’s legacy to create a considered future and as a result has rightly been shortlisted for many awards.
Notes:-
HHA’s sympathetic restoration of Merchant House, Inverness was shortlisted for the 2023 Scotland Loves Local Awards in the Town Centre Living category.
Scotland Loves Local campaigns aim to bring community back to town centres, encouraging consumers and business owners to choose local in a bid to bring positive change.
Merchant House’s regeneration has previously been shortlisted in the Herald Property Awards for Scotland 2023 in the Best Regeneration – Residential Category, as well as Housing Regeneration Project of the Year and Renovation of the Year in the Scottish Home Awards 2023.
