Ancient buildings have survived throughout history by virtue of a close relationship to their environment and few in Scotland more so than Hospitalfield.

From mediaeval times the site has been associated with the caring and nurturing of both people and the land which informed and strengthened the attitudes of successive generations towards the consolidation of the estate.

Between 1840 and 1890 Patrick Allan-Fraser brought this work to a peak with a highly considered programme of social, architectural and agricultural improvements, effectively bringing about a micro-economy designed to harmonise culture once again with its traditions and aspirations.

This sympathetic awareness of nature is an interesting bridge between our contemporary environmental understanding, and a more mystical communication with land spirits in our pantheistic past.

Today the work of his foundation continues his commitment to a total view, rather than to a narrow comprehension of educational and artistic issues, all too often the victims of ideology and divisive specialism.