House of Gray, Dundee
The House of Gray in Dundee is an early 18th century country mansion of moderate size whose architectural character might be said to be more Palladian than Baroque. It consists principally of a main block and two pavilions linked by two square stair turrets with ogee roofs. The house was constructed between 1714 and 1716. The name of the architect is not known, although the design was considered sophisticated enough to be included in William Adam's book of contemporary house designs Vitruvius Scoticus.
When the present owner purchased the House of Gray the building had deteriorated to a very poor condition. The roofs had been stripped, with the leadwork stolen, and the interior had been gutted. Simpson & Brown were appointed to design the complete restoration of the building to form a hotel. Particular care was needed in the conservation of the soft and friable stone. This was achieved by training a small team of masons in traditional Scottish masonry practice. The original panelling had been held in storage and was surveyed and recorded as the first step towards the reinstatement of the principal rooms. The work to the exterior has been completed, but the conservation of the interior has yet to be carried out.
