A 17th-century mansion saved from ruin has won a national restoration prize.
Kinross House, built in 1685 by royal architect Sir William Bruce, was named winner of the Historic Houses Association and Sotheby’s restoration award.
Scotland’s first neo-classical Palladian mansion and its gardens deriving from the work of 16th-century Venetian architect Andrea Palladio were restored to their former glory by owner Donald Fothergill who bought the property in 2011.
Extensive work was needed to save it, with a new roof installed and every pipe and wire replaced in the 55-room Kinross-shire building.
Richard Compton, president of Historic Houses Association, said the two-year restoration saves the house for future generations.
“The scale of the renovation is magnificent, and the house can now be seen by more people than perhaps ever in its long history,” he said.
“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.”
Harry Dalmeny, chairman of Sotheby’s UK, described the transformation of the grade A-listed building as “heroic”.
Six other properties were commended or shortlisted for this year’s award, including Allerton Castle in Yorkshire and Blenheim Palace visitor centre in Oxfordshire.