Pasquill, the UK’s leading manufacturer and supplier of roof trusses, provided Dunira, a Scottish estate mansion house and summer house with design expertise to form a curved ceiling with barrel trusses.
The estate, featured on Channel 4’s “Britain’s Lost Gardens”, has a rich history dating back to 1784, when Edinburgh politician Henry Dundas purchased the property. Renown in Scotland for its natural beauty, the grounds feature amazing architectural constructions, water features and surrounding lawns.
In 1947 the estate was tragically destroyed in a fire, and subsequently the pristine grounds followed into disarray, being untouched for over 70 years.
New owner, Stuart Grant, purchased the property four years ago with the vision to bring the estate back to its former glory, undertaking the incredible renovation project.
Now, Dunira has evolved into a major sporting estate, with fishing, shooting and stalking, made possible by large investments. Visitors benefit from the local attractions, most notably a number of major golfing venues including Gleneagles, St Fillans and Crieff.
The owner is redeveloping the estate while keeping previous buildings rich-history front of mind. Both the mansion house and summer house are in redevelopment.
The new summer house is a stone for stone rebuild after the original building was demolished. Pasquill were approached at the tender stage to aid with design and supply the roof trusses.
The original proposed plans consisted of steel beams and preformed concrete to form the roofs internal curve. To find a more cost-effective solution Pasquill utilised MiTek Pamir, the industry leading roof truss and posi-joist design software, to recreate the design and to bring the build to life before any construction takes place.
Pasquill designer, Ian Haig, decided on barrel trusses that provides structural integrity and negates the need for steel and concrete while also creating the curvature desired by the customer.
Ian Haig, Senior Designer at Pasquill, said: “This project has been enjoyable to be a part for its unique challenge and the 200 years of history associated with the site. We are proud to have accomplished a rebuild that is securing the estate for future generations to enjoy.
“It has been a project that combines innovative technology and history. Our design software and expertise will ensure the building will stand the test of time.”
