Conservation Update

Conservation work is progressing on some of Russborough’s most significant architectural features, made possible through the generous support of our funding partners.

With funding from the Historic Structures Fund, the Apollo Foundation, the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and The Malone Family Foundation, essential work is under way to protect the grand granite staircases of the main house and continue the conservation of Russborough’s historic Main Entrance Gate.

This support enables Russborough to undertake the careful, specialist work needed to safeguard its architectural heritage, improve access and drainage, and preserve these important structures for generations to come.

Conserving the Principal Staircases

Work has begun on the two principal external staircases and the basement areas surrounding the main house. The project is being undertaken by Classic Conservation and Restoration, with the valued support of the Historic Structures Fund and the Apollo Foundation.

The broad granite staircases on the north and south fronts provide access to the principal floor of the house. Over time, loss of mortar, movement of the stone steps and moisture entering the brick structures beneath have affected both their condition and their safe use.

The current works will conserve and realign the granite steps, repair the supporting masonry, and address deterioration to the carved balustrades and heraldic lions. Together, these carefully planned interventions will secure the staircases while retaining the historic materials and craftsmanship that give them their distinctive character.

The support of the Historic Structures Fund and the Apollo Foundation is central to making this work possible. Their investment allows Russborough to respond to urgent conservation needs while ensuring that repairs are carried out by experienced specialists using appropriate materials and methods.

Improving Drainage Around the House

The adjoining basement areas also require urgent attention. Cement-based materials and concrete paving introduced during the twentieth century have contributed to poor drainage, water retention and rising damp.

As part of the project, surface-water drainage will be improved, the masonry retaining walls will be consolidated, and more appropriate permeable materials and lime-based finishes will be reinstated.

As well as improving access and appearance, the works will address sources of moisture that pose a continuing threat to the historic fabric of the house. This vital preventative work has been made possible through the commitment of our funding partners to the long-term care of Russborough.

Continuing Conservation at the Main Entrance Gate

Conservation of Russborough’s Main Entrance Gate is also continuing. The work is being undertaken by Traditional Lime Plastering, with the generous support of the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and The Malone Family Foundation.

Forming part of architect Richard Castle’s original design for Russborough, the gate marks the principal entrance to the demesne. Its central triumphal arch, pediment and flanking pedestrian gateways make it a structure of considerable architectural importance in its own right, while creating a memorable sense of arrival.

In 2024, funding from the Built Heritage Investment Scheme enabled repairs to the roof elements and pediments. This support provided an important foundation for the present phase, which focuses on remediating unsuitable cement render and reinstating traditional lime finishes to the curving screen walls.

The cement-based materials have contributed to deterioration by trapping moisture within the structure. Replacing them with compatible lime-based finishes will allow the walls to shed moisture more effectively, while restoring an important element of the gate’s historic appearance.

We are deeply grateful to the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and The Malone Family Foundation for supporting this next stage of the gate’s conservation. Their contribution allows the work to progress in carefully planned phases, addressing the most pressing areas while building towards the structure’s full conservation.

Looking Ahead

Subject to funding, a final phase of work is planned to repair the stone facades and conserve the historic ironwork.

Projects of this scale depend on sustained collaboration between skilled craftspeople, conservation specialists and committed funders. We extend our sincere thanks to the Historic Structures Fund, the Apollo Foundation, the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and The Malone Family Foundation for recognising the importance of Russborough’s built heritage and investing in its future.

Thanks also go to Classic Conservation and Restoration and Traditional Lime Plastering, whose specialist knowledge and craftsmanship are essential to delivering these sensitive works.

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme is supported by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and administered locally by Wicklow County Council. We are grateful for this support and for the continued commitment of all our partners to safeguarding Russborough for future generations.