Business Details
12 Years
experience
Expert Stonemasonry & Building Conservation Services
Architectural Conservation was founded in 2014 with a clear mission to preserve historical integrity through traditional stonemasonry techniques. Our team of fully qualified stonemasons, trained at the Scottish Lime Centre, specialises in lime mortar repairs and conservation projects across Edinburgh and the Lothians. With over 20 years of combined industry expertise, we work on listed buildings, churches, monuments, and private residences, prioritising breathable materials like lime mortar to ensure structural longevity.Our approach combines hand tools with modern technology, such as the DOFF Integra Cleaning System, to deliver precise restoration. We collaborate with architects, conservation organisations, and private clients, offering consultancy services including building condition reports. Customer satisfaction remains central to our work, as evidenced by repeat engagements and testimonials praising our craftsmanship and professional service delivery.
Services
Stonemasonry
Lime Mortar Pointing
Stone Cleaning
Carving
Roofing & Lead Work
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in specialist stonemasonry
- Our team uses traditional techniques with modern conservation technology
- Fully qualified stonemasons trained at the Scottish Lime Centre
- Proven track record with listed buildings and conservation organisations
- Comprehensive service from condition reports to project completion
What people say
Very high standard
Excellent workmanship
Fair pricing
Professional service
Attention to detail
Services
Stonemasonry
We restore and conserve stone structures using traditional hand tools combined with modern techniques. Our expertise covers listed buildings, churches, and private properties. Projects include lintel repairs, chimney restoration, and new build stonework, all executed with meticulous attention to historical accuracy and material compatibility.
Lime Mortar Pointing
Specialist lime mortar application ensures breathable, durable joints in historic masonry. Our team, trained at the Scottish Lime Centre, removes damaging cement-based mortars and replaces them with appropriate lime mixes. This technique preserves structural integrity while maintaining traditional aesthetics for buildings across Edinburgh and the Lothians.
Stone Cleaning
Using the DOFF Integra Cleaning System, we gently remove biological growth and graffiti with high-temperature steam. This low-pressure method protects stone integrity while achieving thorough cleaning. Recent projects include historic monuments like the Linlithgow Cross Well, demonstrating our capability with sensitive heritage sites.
Carving
Intricate stone carving using traditional wooden mallets and chisels preserves historical detailing in restoration projects. We replicate ornate features and create bespoke stonework for new builds, ensuring continuity with original architectural styles. Our team's expertise extends to decorative elements and structural replacements.
Roofing & Lead Work
Comprehensive roofing services include slate repairs, conservation velux installations, and lead flat roofing. We address traditional properties' specific needs, repairing cast iron water goods and installing modern solutions while maintaining historical accuracy. This service complements our core stonemasonry offerings for complete building conservation.
People
Gavin McGrotty
Owner
BSc qualified stonemason with 20+ years' experience, Gavin established Architectural Conservation in 2014. He specialises in traditional techniques and lime mortar applications, providing consultancy services including building condition assessments. His team regularly undertakes listed building projects and landmark restorations across central Scotland.
Questions
What areas do you cover?
We operate throughout Edinburgh, West Lothian, and surrounding areas including Linlithgow and Falkirk.
Do you work on listed buildings?
Yes, we specialise in listed building conservation with experience on Scheduled Ancient Monuments and churches.
What makes your lime mortar work special?
Our team trained at the Scottish Lime Centre, ensuring correct material use for breathable, durable repairs.
Can you replicate ornate stone features?
Our skilled carvers recreate intricate details using traditional tools combined with modern precision techniques.
How do you handle large-scale projects?
We provide full project management from condition assessment to completion, working with architects and contractors.
