How we worked

A loose code was set by the Gleneagles Estate to maintain quality and harmony between the plots, and some simple principles were key. These include a strong symmetry in the design. This is immediately evident with both principal elevations having a strong centre and axis through which you enter the house.  There is a pleasing sense of symmetry that strengthens as you look straight through the open hall to the lawn beyond.  Views left and right from the hall towards the kitchen and drawing room give an instant feeing of scale.  Lines of sight and views remain important throughout, with all the main rooms offering peaceful southerly views over the neat terrace and lawn.

A sense of lasting appeal is created through the high levels of workmanship.  Our clients brief required the modern idea of bright interiors, which were cleverly created using traditional and classical proportions, by means of tall openings with high lintels and cills at floor level throughout the house.

Light use of classical stone detailing to enhance important elements giving the house a feeling of strength and substance.  We have used Scottish Whinstone, a hard, grey stone which was expertly sawn and dressed to the curves and moulding profiles of the design.  The roof is an attractive natural slate.

A north facing courtyard is formed by the arm of the one-and-a-half storey wing containing the utility, playroom, cloakroom, gym, and cinema space as well as a plant room.  The garage block to the rear of the courtyard has a comfortable study above.

High-quality finishes perpetuate the interior, including bespoke fibrous plaster cornicing and coffered ceilings, beautiful, enduring oak parquet flooring, a richly detailed oak staircase, stone fireplaces, purpose-made joinery items, modern bathrooms, and an exceptional kitchen.  An abstract patterned cut-metal screen in the hall nods to the Art Deco era, and defines the circulation space from the seating area.