Caroline and Patrick Pilkington run Simonstown Architectural & Garden Ornaments from their home in Coole, Co Westmeath, where a large garden lends itself to show stock items in situe
Experience
We have a wealth of past experience in the art world, antiques, decorative arts and architecture. From this I specialise on the installation of urns, fountains, follies and other garden ornaments suitable to the location, period of building and size of garden, estate, office building, cafe, restaurant, park or other public space.
Garden Ornaments
For over 20 years Simonstown has been the appointed Irish agent for UK based Chilstone, makers of fine cast stone since 1953. Chilstone specialises in reproducing, with great accuracy and attention to detail, a wide range of garden ornaments, many of which are reproduced from the original antique item. All items are handmade and hand finished in reconstituted stone using a special process that has been developed over 60 years. The finished item has the colour and texture of natural Portland stone and its composition encourages the spontaneous growth of mosses and lichens so it ages naturally.
Architectural Stone Work
Chilstone are the UK’s leading producers of cast stone Architectural stone work. Caroline works closely with architects, engineers and contractors, giving Chilstone the specification from which drawings are produced and quotes prepared. We specialise in porticos for new builds and existing houses, balustrading, steps and coping, gate piers, window and door surrounds and many other bespoke elements.
Replication and Restoration
Replication and Restoration is an important part of Chilstone’s work. In 2021 Simonstown Architectural worked closely with the Contractors at Westport House, Co Mayo, to copy and supply balusters, lions head, swags and other detailed features seen on the terraces at Westport House. The 4 finials on the pediment at the front of Westport House were held together with chicken wire. One of these had to be completely remade and then 4 new ones cast. These can all be seen in place at Westport House today.
Fibreglass pots and planters
We are the appointed Irish agent for Capital Garden Products, producers of decorative fibreglass plant containers. Made to replicate the original, even the keenest eye cannot distinguish it from the original materials – until you pick it up and the light weight gives the secret away! These compliment the stonework and have been used in many modern Irish gardens, penthouse appartments and where a specific colour or texture is required in the Garden’s design.
