Russborough is one of the finest country houses and designed landscapes in Ireland. It includes collections of paintings and furniture of European importance. Since 2002 we have advised continuously on the conservation of the house and demesne. We have completed extensive repairs to its external fabric, new security and fire safety measures, together with the restoration of the entrance hall and main stair. A basement exhibition area and disabled access to the house, were designed and brought to a successful planning application. We have created new walkways and access roads within the demesne, plus infrastructural improvements and have overseen the restoration of the lime kiln, and other ornamental structures such as the rebuilding of the eastern obelisk gates. We have also completed a conservation and development plan for the walled garden including designs for a new visitors centre.
We were commissioned to convert the west wing into two self-contained apartments for short let holiday accommodation. During the works a serious fire destroyed the entire roof and most of the first floor, requiring a major post fire restoration that facilitated the reversal of earlier interventions. Highly complex conservation supported by the input of many leading specialist conservators managed to save all of the original cornices, chimneypieces, joinery and other crafted elements of the wing. The magnificent vaulted stables now accommodate kitchens, dining rooms and living rooms, within two generous four bedroom apartments.
The magnificent vaulted stables, formerly divided up to create staff accommodation, now provide kitchens, dining rooms and living rooms, within two generous four-bedroom apartments