Listed building status for former North Tay Works
The former North Tay Works building in Dundee has been listed by Historic Scotland.
- Published in the Courier : 28.09.10
- Published online : 28.09.10 @ 06.24pm
It has been given a new lease of life as office units available for rent and in recognition of its status as a rare example of a well-detailed 1930s office block it was listed at category B.
Designed by local architect William M. Wilson, the office building off Loons Road was built in 1937-8 for timber merchants McGregor and Balfour, with a further range to the rear dating from the early 1950s.
"The late 1920s and 1930s was a troubled time for Scotland economically," said Elizabeth McCrone, head of listing. "However, this did not prevent some exceptional examples of the fashionable pared-down chic of the Art Deco style being constructed in our towns and cities.
"Social changes were influencing our leisure time and new building types, such as roadhouses and garages, were built in modern materials with clean lines."
The North Tay Centre is characteristic of this streamlined Art Deco style, taking its cues from developments in modern architecture on the continent and technological and aspirational developments, such as cruise ships.
The bands of green tiles provide a striking exterior and the horizontal glazing pattern further emphasises the linear lines.
Stylish curved glazing to the windows flanking the entrance are another typical Art Deco feature. The attention to detail also extends to the rainwater goods with their 1930s hoppers.
The main ground floor offices and first floor boardroom have smart period detailing with timber panelling and some contemporary light fittings even survive.
Ms McCrone added, "Listing is a vital tool to make sure that the interest of these exceptional buildings is recognised for the contribution which they make to Scotland's built heritage and to ensure their special character is taken into account when changes are proposed."
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