Helen recently visited Eugene to present her lecture, A Conversation or Conservation, at the University of Oregon. Drawing from projects such as Stone Garden Room and the Ingleby Gallery, the lecture showcased the process and possibilities of preserving and revitalising Edinburgh’s Georgian architecture. In her talk, Helen highlighted the delicate balance between maintaining historical features and adapting buildings for modern use, illustrating the planning challenges and heritage decisions involved. Through thoughtful repairs and alterations, Helen's presentation emphasised the vital role of conservation in ensuring these architectural gems endure for another 200 years.

Last week Helen Lucas Architects enjoyed a summer day trip to the Hill House in Helensburgh. It was fascinating to learn about the 10-year conservation programme undertaken by the National Trust to protect the property which, although a stunning display of Charles Rennie Mackintosh's architecture and Margaret Macdonald's textiles, has not withstood a century of western Scoltand's unforgiving rainfall.

The protective box, a steel frame covered in chainmail mesh, featuring walkways around and over the roof of the house, provides a unique perspective and fantastic vantage point from which to view previously hidden architectural features.

Thank you to Wallpaper's Hugo Macdonald for the kind recognition of Helen Lucas Architect's sensitive work, converting the former Glasite Meeting House into an exhibition space for the Ingleby Gallery, in his recent Guide to Edinburgh during festival season. It is a pleasure to realise conservation led conversion projects within our historic city.

We are thrilled to share that HLA have now received full planning permission for a new house on the Isle of Harris. The proposed project will sit harmoniously within the landscape, maintaining a structure that compliments both the existing site as well as the natural contours of the landscape. Situated just off the waterfront, the property will accommodate two bedrooms, a shower room, a kitchen, dining and living area, utility and toilet, all on a single storey. 

The team thoroughly enjoyed hosting an S4 Edinburgh student on work experience last week. It was a pleasure to provide insights into architectural practice to such an engaged student.