NSI Field trip:
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On Friday 29th April the NSI held a very successful excursion to Watson Stonecraft. Around 30 architects and members of the NSI ventured out to West Calder to see stone being processed and to learn about the new build, conservation and restoration projects that Watson Stonecraft have been involved in.
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Graeme Hadden, Managing Director of Watson Stonecraft, spoke to the party concerning some of the major issues regarding stone use in modern construction - from selection and procurement to budgeting and reporting. The company has over a century of experience in stonework restoration, stone cleaning and new build. The party was given the opportunity to ask questions about some of the company’s more recent projects before donning hard hats ready for a tour of the stone yard. A most instructive tour allowed the NSI group to look at how stone is processed. Watson Stonecraft has experience of working with all types of stone including sandstone, limestone, granites, marbles and slates. The majority of these stone types could be seen in the yard. The group was able to see the rough quarry block being processed using state-of-the-art, automated machinery. |
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In contrast, the group was also able to view the more traditional skilled handcraft of the stonemason. Having observed the experts, members of the party were finally given the chance to experience working the stone themselves. The NSI would like to thank the staff at Watson Stonecraft for an interesting and informative day. |
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