Robert Adam's Culzean

As far as the author is concerned, the most relevant of Robert Adams' architectural achievements is the building of Culzean Castle, and therefore the following information refers to this:

An early sketch by Robert Adam

The Castle before Robert changed so much - you can see the 4-storey, L-shaped tower house which was subsumed into the new castle. Everything else disappeared as the building progressed, and you'd never recognise the tower house now!

And ~~~

after it was completed -

From the painting

"Culzean from the Sea"

by Alexander Nasmyth 

One of the most exciting features in the house must be the beautiful

Oval Staircase

If ever a staircase was made with ball gowns in mind, it was surely this one!

This was the final part of the building work. A passageway through an open courtyard had connected the front and back sections of the Castle, this, along with the staircase of the old tower house, was taken away.

The new cantilever staircase was built in this space and transformed the entire building, offering access to the first floor (where the public rooms used for entertainment are situated) and allowing a glimpse of the floor above which is reached via a less imposing stair. A lift has since been installed to allow easier access for Eisenhower and other guests.

 I could go on for ever with beautiful pictures and fascinating facts, firing your imaginations to think about the way life was 200 years ago, but really, the best way to appreciate Culzean, is to come and see it for yourself if you possibly can!

Be sure to say "hello" if you do

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