The Hillhouse ..

in Helensburgh, Renee Mackintosh designed the iconic Art Nouveau home for the publisher Walter Blackie in 1902. Now under the ownership of the National Trust for Scotland since 1982, in view of the house’s perilous condition because of crumbling masonry over the years, steps were taken at great expense to enclose the complete house within a steel mesh box for a period of at least 10 years to dry the house out after suffering so long in the wet conditions of the west of Scotland. Early indications look positive and there is even talk of the box being a permanent fixture in view of it’s worldwide popularity with members, tourists and those interested in architecture. It’s a fascinating place to visit and has an excellent café.