Merchant House

Inverness-based developer, HHA, has completed the sympathetic regeneration of Merchant House, 51-53 Castle Street, Inverness, creating eight much-needed homes and new commercial space for the city.

Forming part of the 18th Century Castle Street frontage with scenic views overlooking Inverness Castle, the B-listed building had run into a state of disrepair over recent years and had created an eyesore for the local community. Under HHA’s ownership, the site has been transformed into an attractive mix of one and two-bedroom apartments, complete with a 1,000 sq ft commercial unit on the ground floor which will be owned and leased by HHA.

Made possible through a £1.2 million Scottish Government Partnership Support for Regeneration grant, private finance and City Region Deal funding, HHA has worked closely with appointed local contractor, Compass Building & Construction Services, to ensure that as much of the original building was retained as possible.

Intrinsic to HHA’s vision was the restoration of the existing building façade, which was removed and re-built stone-by-stone to create an improved streetscape that mirrors its original character, whilst utilising existing materials. To the rear of the scheme, a communal courtyard has been revived with the creation of a private garden space for the new tenants to enjoy. Existing historic stones and steps that were connected to Inverness Prison previously located at the castle until 1902 have been retained, ensuring that part of the city’s legacy remains.