14 Springfield, Dundee

14 Springfield, Dundee, comprises a Neo-classical cul-de-sac development begun in 1828 and completed by 1851. The layout was originally intended to include Springfield House, but this was later excluded, and the terraces were modified. The properties were feued between 1830 and 1831 and further developed by 1846.

The group comprises numbers 1 to 6 and 18 to 32, stepped up from the sea and terminating with a semi-detached house at the north end and short terraces at Perth Road. The majority of the buildings are two-storey and have a basement, although some basements have been infilled.

Numbers 5 to 14 and 18 to 27 are arranged in pairs, each with a central tetrastyle Doric portico and originally had wrought and cast-iron balconies above (most are now absent). The windows are set within lugged architraves, corniced at ground level, and include 1st floor cill courses. A main cornice and balustrade run along the top of the terraces. The lower pairs of houses are alternately advanced and recessed, while the upper pairs are generally on the same level. Almost all but the recessed pairs have pilaster strips defining their north ends. Numbers 15 and 16 share a similar style, but feature a full-length ground floor colonnade. A modern addition is located west of number 15. Numbers 17 and 28 are single, three-bay houses with a portico positioned on the left, and a one-storey link connects number 17 to number 16.

The properties fronting Perth Road (numbers 1 to 4 and 29 to 32) are symmetrical, eight-bay structures with the outer bays slightly advanced and featuring central tetrastyle porticos. Number 1 is positioned at an angle to accommodate Perth Road, with a set-back porch on the side. Number 32 has a later hemispherical, pilastered bow rising through both ground and first floors. Number 3 has a mullioned appearance and a restored balustrade.

The corner houses (numbers 4 and 29) are two bays wide facing Perth Road and three bays wide facing Springfield. Number 4 features a central portico, a panelled wallhead stack on the Springfield elevation, and a recently restored balustrade. Number 29 has a portico on the right side and a wallhead stack that has been partly removed to accommodate a later slate mansard roof with consoled dormers.

The windows are largely sash and case, with most now 2-pane; some retain 4 or 12 panes, and others are modern. The roofs are low-pitched and slate-covered, with ridge stacks. The rear of the buildings are constructed of rubble. Some good, original Ionic plasterwork remains within the interiors. The original railings are now missing.

The development was initially planned under the direction of an eminent Edinburgh architect, as noted in documents dated 28 January 1830 and 17 March 1831.