Shandwick Place restored to glory

A major conservation project funded by EWH at 22-30 Shandwick Place is now nearing completion.

The works were focused on repairing the structure of bay windows, rebuilding the chimneys to match the original detail, and repairing most of the stonework to the front elevation.

The building began life as the Albert Institute of Fine Arts. It promoted the advancement of the arts and sold the work of contemporary artists. In honour of its namesake, the pediment over the entrance has the figure of Prince Albert, sculpted and painted by Mrs D.O. Hill.

22-30 Shandwick Place also has links with other iconic landmarks of the New Town. The architect, William Hamilton Beattie, also designed Jenners Department Store and the Balmoral Hotel. Common amongst all buildings is a high level of surface decoration and sculpture. The front facade of 22-30 Shandwick Place incorporates intricate stone carvings throughout, and its five-storey scale and intricate detailing produces a powerful urban statement in Edinburgh’s West End.

Fiona MacDonald, Conservation Architect from Edinburgh World Heritage said” This project has restored same marvellous carved stone details, that add real character to the building. The architect was William Hamilton Beattie, who also designed Jenners Department Store, and here in Shandwick Place he has used many of the same renaissance styled design. Perhaps new fully restored Shandwick Place will be recognized as the architectural gem it really is.”