Hartree House is a handsome example of the country house in the Scottish Baronial style. Its core originates from 18th century; it had been extended and given a new “romantic” form and appearance during the gothic revival a century later. Unfortunately in mid 20C the property had been in-sensitively converted into a hotel. Many inappropriate alterations had been implemented at the time. The business reached its low point a decade ago and since then the building suffered neglect that started affecting its fabric.

My Client purchased Hartree House with a view to restore it to its former glory and for it to become a family house again.

My Clients approached various architects and had already a couple of schemes drawn that did not prove to be what they wished for. Following my appointment I studied previous approaches and listened carefully to the needs of my Clients as well as studied the building itself – its assts and their significance. I approached this interesting task with a great enthusiasm. The scheme was to comprise of internal alterations as well as the group of new outbuildings that would both serve and complement the main house.

There was a great team work between the Landscape Architect (Jane Brown), the Building Surveyor/ Stone Mason (Donald MaKenzie), myself and our Clients. As a result I was able to come up with ideas that were enthusiastically received and then develop them into a full planning scheme. Both planning and Listed Building Consents were granted with virtually very few conditions.

The Conservation Officer’s comments:
Although the footprint of these additions is quite large, it is in scale with the large house and has clearly been carefully considered in terms of its composition….. Overall, I support these proposals which represent an opportunity to redevelop the house in a positive way.

I am in the process of preparing full set of working details for the entire scheme with a view to starting implementation in 2012.

Client: Private
Location: Biggar, Scottish Borders