Andrew Macpherson, director of Moxon Architects, said: “As an architectural practice deeply invested in the region’s heritage, we are proud to be working with the Trust to preserve an important piece of local heritage on the Mar Lodge Estate. . Our comprehensive study of the existing structure allowed us to adopt an approach that required minimal intervention whilst being durable and resilient – ​​a key element for the building’s remote location, challenging climate and role as a tourist attraction. We worked closely with the local planning authority and conservation specialists to successfully balance preservation and modernization to safeguard the building’s history and ensure its ‘fairytale’ charm remained intact for years to come.

David Frew, manager of the Trust’s Mar Lodge Estate, said: “Our archival research and subsequent archaeological surveys have shown that there was a porch on the property, with our archaeologists discovering holes for the posts of the structure when on-site research. We have tried to sympathetically restore this with the help of our architects, Moxon Architects and archival architectural drawings, so that it is in keeping with the rest of the property and the 19th century period when it was built initial.

“The cottage, built by Princess Louise, granddaughter of Queen Victoria, was saved from disrepair after being placed on the buildings at risk register. The property was in a poor state of repair when the Trust acquired Mar Lodge Estate in 1975, and subsequent work has taken place to stabilize its condition, including wall repairs and the installation of a new roof and shingles in the past. The building is a fascinating look at how members of the royal family spent their free time, and we are incredibly proud to see it restored to its heyday when Queen Victoria and the royal family holidayed at Balmoral.

“We are delighted to welcome visitors to discover the new chalet, where they can immerse themselves in its history. New information panels will also be added and specially commissioned furniture will be created for them to relax and immerse themselves in the surrounding forest and nature.

“This project contributes to the Trust’s objective, outlined in our ten-year program Nature, beauty and heritage for all strategy, to stabilize and improve the condition of our heritage buildings and structures, ensuring their longevity through restoration and conservation so that they survive for the enjoyment of future generations.