Kinross House exterior.
Built in 1685 Kinross House, Scotland’s first neo-classical Palladian mansion, has taken the 2013 Restoration Award from Sotheby’s and the Historic Houses Association. When designed to entertain guests and welcome visitors the house transformed a landscape previously scattered with defensive castles, fortified towers and structures designed to keep people out. When acquired by Donald Fothergill in 2011 it was nearly beyond repair.
Using traditional products and craftsmanship where possible, and drawing inspiration from it’s history, the house and gardens have been returned to their former glory by a team of specialist architects, builders and historical experts. The roof was replaced, along with every single wire and pipe in the 55 room mansion. In line with architect Sir William Bruce’s vision for the house 350 years ago, the original seventeenth century garden designs have also been reinstalled – restoring the long lost historic views, geometries and horticultural plans which were so integral to Bruce’s neo-classical design. As well as functioning as a contemporary home the house is now open to the public for the first time. (Click on any image to enlarge it).
The grand salon before restoration.
The reception after restoration.
The grand salon after restoration.
The dining room before restoration.
The dining room after restoration.