Conservation Philosophy in Practice - a Scottish Perspective

In this extended essay, the author presents a personal yet relevant interpretation of contemporary approaches to the conservation of buildings and gardens and designed landscapes. The author's experience and perspective is an international one but his experience of working in Scotland dates from the beginning of 2003, when he was appointed Director of Conservation and Property Services at the National Trust for Scotland. After providing a summary of historical and contemporary precedents which have affected the discipline of conservation, the author presents specific cases to analyse methods and attitudes which are shaping recent conservation philosophy and practice in Scotland. Conservation initiatives in the Western Isles and the plan for the revival of the gardens and designed landscape at Newhailes are a focus here, with an emphasis on the working methods of the National Trust for Scotland.