Work to convert mansion into luxury hotel progresses
WORK on the conversion of the island mansion Islay House into a world- class luxury hotel continues apace and the property co- owner Steven Haag reports everything is going favourably with the alterations and improvements.
These have included cosmetic upgrades to the Grade ‘A’ listed building as well as a number of significant structural improvements.
Among the most challenging of the undertakings has been the upgrade of the drainage system, the first to be carried out for more than a century. Proving equally challenging was the installation of a fire safety sprinkler system which was no easy task in the 17th century building.
The owners are exercising a great deal of discretion as they set about these improvements and are respectful and highly conscious of the mansion’s long history and of the regard with which it has been held in the local community.
As the renovations continue, operational staff have been engaged and the remaining staffing requirements are presently being considered.
The owners look forward to welcoming guests soon for overnight stays as well as those who wish to avail themselves of catering and bar services.
A second phase of redevelopment will take place over the winter in preparation for the planned grand official opening in 2016.
Islay House was built in 1644 by Sir Hugh Campbell of Cawdor, whose family owned the island at that time. The property remained in the hands of the island’s principal landowners until it was sold to a private buyer by the Margadale family in the early 1980s. It was bought by the current owners in May of last year.