Architect, painter, printmaker and poet, born in Aldringham, Suffolk, where he lived a countryman’s life. Was educated at Ipswich School before going to the Architectural Association, but was self-taught as an artist. Was elected to RIBA in 1912, becoming a fellow in 1925. Travelled to Belgium and the Netherlands and became a friend of the painter Frank Brangwyn, who influenced Lay’s work. Was a prize winner in the Daily Mail’s Village Sign Competition.