The current building is a faux-medieval work by Stewart Henbest Capper dating from 1892.

The lintel over the entrance is dated 1622 and carries the initials WG and GS, for William Gray and Geida (or Egidia) Smith, his wife (sister of Provost John Smith of Grothill), and the inscription "FEARE THE LORD AND DEPART FROM EVILL".

Their son was the Scots Worthy Andrew Gray whose books became well-known despite dying at an early age.

In 1907, the Earl gave the house to the royal burgh of Edinburgh, for use as a municipal museum.

[7] Lady Stair's House is designated a Category A listed building by Historic Environment Scotland.