Historic Houses Association, Sotheby’s pick up Kinross House for 2013 Restoration Award

KOLKATA: The Historic Houses Association and Sotheby’s has picked Kinross House, Scotland’s first neo-classical Palladian mansion, for the 2013 Restoration Award. Built in 1685 by Sir William Bruce, one of the foremost architects of the classical form, the historic house was in need of extensive restoration when its present owner, Mr Donald Fothergill, acquired the property in 2011.

In a labour of love, Kinross House and Gardens have been saved from disrepair and meticulously restored to their former glory.

"The major restoration programme which has been undertaken over the past two years at Kinross has saved and revitalised this hugely important house from deterioration and possible future loss. The scale of the renovation is magnificent, and the house can now be seen by more people than perhaps ever in its long history - it is terrific to see the house coming back to life and being filled once again. Active use of the house is already having a beneficial effect on employment and incomes in the surrounding area," said Richard Compton, president of the Historic Houses Association, in an email statement.

"This is an heroic restoration of the grandest classical house in Scotland. To see an owner devote such love, care and attention to a house which will continue as a home, is a thorough vindication of the award," Harry Dalmeny, chairman of Sotheby’s UK, remarked.

While the Scottish countryside was previously scattered with defensive castles, fortified towers and structures intended to keep people out, Kinross House, built in 1685, transformed the architectural landscape in Scotland. Designed to entertain guests and welcome its visitors, Kinross House, Scotland’s first neo-classical Palladian mansion, set the standard for all Scottish building projects which followed.