2026 UK RIAS Scotland Award
The house contains a collection of international importance, including rare Gaelic books, films, and other archival materials. The works upgraded the building to function as both a museum and an archive, while preserving its original finishes and historic character.
The refurbishment included strengthening the existing structure to support new storage areas for archival content and repairing areas of damaged building fabric. Our structural interventions were carefully designed to protect the house’s intricate and delicate interior finishes, ensuring the building remains as close as possible to how its former residents, John Lorne Campbell and Margaret Fay Shaw, would have known it. At the same time, a new visitor experience has been introduced, sharing their story with the public.
Two years ago, the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) commenced a phased conservation programme for Canna House, beginning with urgent work to address long-standing issues of water ingress in the 140-year-old listed building. Water penetration through the roof and windows, along with pooling at the foundations, had caused significant deterioration over time. The ongoing conservation efforts include full interior redecoration, with the aim of restoring the house to a condition suitable for safe public access and enjoyment once more.
