Latest news with #HomeoftheYear
The Herald Scotland
5 hours ago
- Business
- The Herald Scotland
What does Kirstie Allsopp think of Scotland's offers-over system?
**** COME on, we've all been tempted. It's that moment at the end of Location when Kirstie asks if you would like help finding your next home. Like it? I'd bite your hand off, mate. Imagine: Kirstie and Phil, Allsopp and Spencer, swooping in like the fourth emergency service, putting in the hard yards and sourcing that dream home no one else has found. All you have to do is choose one, then rock up to the pub for the big phone call. Then again, what do southerners Kirstie and Phil know of the Scottish property market's mysterious ways? Rather a lot, as it goes. IWC Media, which makes the show (and Scotland's Home of the Year), has had offices in Glasgow for donkey's years. Plus Kirstie has a well-known pash for Victorian stone, some of which turned up in their search of Stirling and East Dunbartonshire. 'By UK standards, house prices are reasonable,' said Phil, quoting an average of £260,075 for places on the outskirts of Glasgow - 7% less than the UK average of £281,000. Phil was searching on behalf of Lorraine and Emma, a mother and her law student daughter, looking to downsize. Kirstie's duo were going the other way, hoping to swap their small flat for a family home. All life is there in Location, and it is always surprising - and central to the show's success - how much a home search reveals. Read more Lorraine acknowledged she might need a shove to get herself over the line between looking and buying. She hadn't found downsizing easy, then. The sales and marketing director also wanted Phil to find her "a mansion for the price of a tin shack." Don't we all? Kirstie's couple, business banking manager James and nurse Gwyneth, had been househunting for a year and made just two offers, both of which were second-to-last in the queue. 'That's where we need your help,' said Gwyneth, 'knowing how much to offer over.' Kirstie sympathised. 'It's a nightmare.' Phil's first pick was a three-bed terrace in the 'charming village' of Cambusbarron, offers over £234,000 with a home report valuation of £250,000. Nice but too small. Kirstie's Kirkintilloch choice was in an extended bungalow in turn-key condition. James liked it, Gwyneth wasn't feeling the love. James and Gwyneth check out an extended bungalow in Kirkintilloch (Image: IWC Media/C4) On they went: a period maisonette flat Kirstie thought 'beautiful' but was too much of a project for Lorraine and Emma; James and Gwyneth felt the same about a semi-detached in Lenzie. Kirkintilloch, Torbrex, Milton of Campsie - the hour and the properties flew by. Kirstie must have been feeling the pressure, and the effects of the Scottish sun, because she had taken her scarf off. Phil was worried. 'Are you okay?' he asked, only half-joking. Closing dates arrived. Not everyone got what they wanted at first, but things worked out in the end. Would the househunters have found the properties anyway? Perhaps, but the crash-course in househunting from Kirstie and Phil, 25 years-plus in the business, helped things along enormously. The pair had arrived in Stirling arm in arm like the old non-couple they are, and they had offered the same support to their househunters. The credits rolled. 'If you'd like help …' began Kirstie. Oh, I was tempted.
The Courier
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Courier
Will Broughty Ferry's 'Tree House' be crowned Scotland's Home of the Year?
A striking house in Broughty Ferry features in the finale of Scotland's Home of the Year. Built in the 1960s, the Tree House has been sensitively refurbished and updated by its current owners. It was designed by architect Bruce Walker, who lectured at Duncan of Jordanstone and worked for Historic Scotland. Walker built the Tree House in 1962 when he was in his 20s and lived there until his death in around 2015. Paul Durrant and his wife Jackie McKenzie bought the Tree House in 2021 and spent 18 months transforming it into their dream home. They kept irreplaceable original features such as the 4cm thick beech flooring and exposed brickwork. They also expanded into the attic, creating an en suite master bedroom with a private living area beside it. The ground floor has a kitchen/diner, a lounge, three bedrooms and a bathroom. Upstairs there's a snug, bedroom, shower room, and dressing room. The L-shaped living room and kitchen are semi-open plan, with a brick column creating a divider. Meanwhile the bedroom has a vaulted ceiling and an enormous window giving views over the garden. The Tree House featured in episode four of Scotland's Home of the Year. It was up against a farm steading conversion in Deanstone called the Dairy and the Carriage House, a Victorian conversion in Auchterarder. With a score of 29/30 it edged out the Dairy and the Carriage House, which were both given scores of 24/30 by the judges. Paul, 70, and Jackie, 60, are delighted to have reached the final. Paul said: 'We were delighted to make the final and really enjoyed our day in Glasgow. 'We met the other finalists and the judges, who all claimed to be able to match the people to the homes at first sight. 'When we saw the amazing houses that were in the final we were quite humbled that ours had made it. We know it's a bit of a Marmite house that isn't for everyone.' Paul said he and Jackie thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the show: 'The film crew came over and did an interview with us. They were lovely. Then we had to leave the house for a few hours while the judges went in. 'It was a strange feeling leaving a film crew in your house but we hopped on our bikes and cycled to Tayport while they got on with things.' The couple left a little surprise for the judges: 'Jackie is a keen baker and she left some treats out for them. When we got home there was a nice little note from Banjo thanking her.' The final episode of Scotland's Home of the Year airs on Monday evening. Filmed at Glasgow's House for an Art Lover – designed by the iconic architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh – it sees the six finalists come face-to-face and meet the judges for the first time. The six SHOTY finalists are: Home to Pamela and Gordon, their son Caleb and Rosa the Irish Setter, the Sandstone Bungalow blends together old with new, whilst retaining the beautiful original 1930s details. The couple design choices bring the Sandstone Bungalow up-to-date with a bright and modern kitchen, dining and living spaces. Situated on the outskirts of Pitmedden in rural Aberdeenshire, Hilltop House is home to Chris, Jessica, their son Chase and dogs Enzo and Dino. The couple designed their bright, contemporary house around the original footprint of the farm steading, fusing mid-century and Californian cool style to create their dream home. A first-floor traditional tenement in Edinburgh's Stockbridge area, Wee City Nook is home to Devin and Max. The couple combined their creative skills to design and rebuild each room in this small-but-perfectly-formed home, creating clever storage solutions, maximising every nook and cranny. Together, they have created a bold, bright and colourful apartment that packs a design punch. A modernist 1960s property in Broughty Ferry, the Tree House is home to Jackie, Paul and their cats Mirren and Kaja. The couple fell in love with this neglected house which had laid empty for five years, lovingly breathing new life into it whilst preserving the original architect's vision. Amongst their changes, they reworked the upstairs space to create their bedroom of dreams overlooking the treetops. A cosy little home, An Cala Cottage is home to Caroline, Lee and their dog, Nuala. This traditional cottage was brought back to life on a budget, with the couple incorporating charming charity shop finds with a creative use of colour throughout. They took inspiration for their interior design from the coastal and mountain views which surround them, creating a cosy and relaxing home. This Victorian semi-detached house near Dalbeattie is home to Ozzy, Laura, daughter Grace and Ethel the pug. The property's coastal views won the family over and they made it their own by renovating and adding a tasteful extension to the original granite building. Boasting a bold and colourful interior, the family entered Craigmount as Grace's late gran loved SHOTY. The SHOTY judges are excited about the series finale. Interior designer Anna Campbell-Jones said: 'As always, we have a set of finalists that are each uniquely different from each other, from restored modernist dreams to handcrafted miniature perfection, there's inspiration for everyone. 'When we film the final we are never sure who the winner will be – it could genuinely be any of these amazing homes. Through debate, much discussion and not a little heartbreak, we gradually whittle them down to one that we all agree has that magical edge – the home that best exemplifies what home means.' Isle of Mull-based interior designer Banjo Beale said: 'Each home's bursting with personality – bold, beautiful, and a real labour of love. The finale of SHOTY is the big emotional payoff – surprises, stories, and a stunning winner that'll take your breath away.' Architect Danny Campbell added: 'This year's finalists are an eclectic celebration of design adventures — bold, heartfelt, and unapologetically individual. Each home tells a story of its owner's passions, priorities and aesthetic DNA, from slick architectural statements to soulful reimagining of traditional spaces. 'The finale is always a head-spin – equal parts tension and celebration. Viewers can expect impassioned debates, inspiring interior insights and that brilliant moment where we finally agree on a winner!' The finale of Scotland's Home of the Year is on BBC One Scotland tonight at 8.30pm and then available on iPlayer.
Irish Independent
14 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- Irish Independent
See inside this ‘hidden gem' Clare home designed by former ‘Home of the Year' finalist
The five-bed house, measuring just under mansion-qualifying square footage, lies in between Cratloe and Sixmilebridge, and sits on approximately one-acre of land. The home is within walking distance of Cratloe's well-known woodland areas, while maintaining peace and seclusion. Lisney Sotheby's International Realty has listed this literal hidden gem of the Banner County with uninterrupted views of the Shannon River and the rolling countryside beyond, describing it as a 'showcase of award-winning architectural design, natural light, and expansive, thoughtfully planned accommodation'. 'This home represents a rare opportunity to acquire a unique contemporary property that perfectly balances architecture, lifestyle, and location,' the listing reads. 'Whether for a family, a creative professional, or someone seeking an inspiring retreat with urban access, this residence is sure to impress.' Hillbrook House was designed by renowned architect Kostas Wootis, a Greek visionary now residing in the same county as this property. Wootis famously won his episode of Home of the Year in 2018, advancing to the show's final. Much like his own home, Hillbrook House brings nature into the home – with large windows, an atrium, a stunning wood-panelled balcony, and foliage galore transforming this home into a mini botanical garden. While boasting exquisite architecture and divine views, the home is also perfectly suited for family, with a large garden and living room area providing the perfect space for roaming little ones. 'Occupying a beautifully landscaped one-acre site, the property stands out not only for its striking appearance but for the intelligence and innovation behind every detail,' the listing says. 'With clean lines, extensive glazing, and a commanding presence, the home blends contemporary design with functional elegance. Every room has been considered to optimise the site's elevated positioning and to connect harmoniously with the outdoor environment.' 'At the heart of the home lies a dramatic triple-height atrium—a show-stopping feature that defines the architectural character of the interior,' the listing continues. 'This spectacular space floods the home with natural light, enhancing the sense of volume and offering uninterrupted vertical sightlines that contribute to the overall feeling of openness and tranquillity.' ADVERTISEMENT The accommodation is generous and versatile, comprising of what Lisney Sotheby's International Realty has described as: 'An open-flow primary living area connecting a stunning modern kitchen, elegant dining area, and comfortable lounge space, all oriented toward panoramic views. Oversized glass doors lead directly to a sun terrace, ideal for alfresco dining, entertaining, or simply soaking in the breath-taking landscape. Four spacious double bedrooms, each with expansive windows offering natural light and impressive views. A fifth room, currently used as a study, offers flexibility to serve as a guest bedroom, office, or creative space. The master suite enjoys its own private outlook, built-in storage, and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.' The property's large basement creates even further potential for this property – with the layout allowing plenty of privacy, while maintaining easy access to the main living area. Currently, the basement contains a music studio and an additional storage space, however it is fully adaptable and could easily accommodate guest accommodation, a granny flat, a cinema room, a home office, or a fully equipped gym. Outside, the property features a garage with internal access, a driveway with plenty of room for hosting, and extensive manicured lawns.
The Courier
2 days ago
- General
- The Courier
'Imaginatively designed' Broughty Ferry home with beautiful sunroom returns to market
An 'imaginatively designed' Broughty Ferry home with a beautiful sunroom has returned to the market. Dating from the 1970s, the Dundarroch Gardens home boasts beautifully landscaped gardens and an impressive outdoor summer house. Spread across four levels, the house was 'imaginatively designed by a local architect', according to agents Savills. The four-bed home was previously on the market for £500,000 in 2023. The standout feature of the home is the spacious sun room with exposed brickwork and a glass roof, which opens into the kitchen. A separate living room and sitting room are found on the split-level lower ground floor in addition to the master bedroom, which has an en-suite. The second bedroom, study, dining hall, utility room and toilet complete the ground floor. Two more bedrooms are found on the first floor. Several of the rooms are clad with wood panelling. Outside, the landscaped gardens feature an impressive summer house with its own dining kitchen and open fire. There is also a paved outdoor seating area, providing the perfect outdoor space for entertaining. The home also has a wooden garden shed and a private driveway, which leads to the double garage and covered carport. The home – which is just off Monifieth Road – is on the market with Savills for offers over £595,000. It comes as Broughty Ferry's Tree House missed out on being crowned Scotland's Home of the Year on Monday night. The Courier has taken a look at the best properties across Tayside and Fife from the BBC show.
The Courier
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Courier
Broughty Ferry's Tree House misses out on Scotland's Home of the Year title
The Tree House in Broughty Ferry missed out on being crowned Scotland's Home of the Year. The finale of the popular BBC property show aired on Monday night. Hilltop House near Pitmedden in Aberdeenshire was crowned Scotland's Home of the Year. The Tree House was one of six episode-winning properties to make it to the finale of the show. Filmed at Glasgow's House For An Art Lover, the final episode brought together the six finalists for the first time, giving them the chance to see each other's homes. Hilltop House is a contemporary home built on the footprint of a farm steading. Home to Jessica Zanoni and husband Chris Labrooy, their teenage son Chase (18) and dogs Enzo and Dino, Hilltop House fuses together mid-century and Californian cool styles. Designed by the couple – who run their own art business – it's filled with colourful statement pieces from bright yellow sofas to a pastel pink bathroom. The SHOTY judges – interior designers Anna Campbell-Jones and Banjo Beale, and architect Danny Campbell – crowned Hilltop House the winner of Scotland's Home of the Year 2025 from a shortlist of six finalists from across Scotland. Anna Campbell-Jones said of Hilltop House: 'This home managed to feel perfect in every way whilst still feeling like a place where real people live. I particularly loved the way their art was reflected in their choices of colour and furniture, managing to create the perfect balance between playfulness and sophistication.' Fellow judge Danny Campbell was equally blown away: ''This was a home that manages to be both deeply personal and architecturally ambitious,' he said. 'There's a clarity of vision that's rare: every corner feels considered, every material honest, every space deliberate and thought through. It felt like the building was completely in tune with the people who lived there, which is especially impressive for a conversion.' The owners were delighted the judges picked Hilltop House as the winner. Jessica said: 'Every home is distinctive and unique because of the people that live there. So, our home is different because we are different. 'With me being from California and Chris being an artist, I think our tastes are just naturally a little bit unique. There isn't really anything in our house that we found at shops near us. Everything was specially sourced.' Chris added: 'I feel the home's location and east-facing gable give it a special character. I love the sunrises here – so much so that I'm up before 6.00am every morning just to take them in. I work from home so I really appreciate the quality of light throughout the day. It's a very easy going home to live in.' The six homes that reached the final of Scotland's Home of the Year included the Tree House in Broughty Ferry, which is owned by Paul Durrant and his wife Jackie McKenzie. Paul said he and Jackie were delighted to make the final: 'We had such a good day in Glasgow. We loved meeting the other finalists and hearing the stories of their homes. 'We weren't at all disappointed not to win. It really was a bonus to reach the final and to appear alongside so many amazing homes.' The 7th series of Scotland's Home of the Year featured 18 properties from all over Scotland – including four in Tayside, Fife, and Stirlingshire. Reflecting on the season, Danny Campbell said: 'This year's line-up was outrageously good. From bold conversions to quirky self-builds, every home had its own personality and inspirational touches. 'It felt like homeowners across Scotland have taken things up a level — not just in terms of design, but in how fearlessly they made their homes truly their own. It was a joy (and a nightmare!) to judge.' An 8th series of Scotland's Home of the Year has been commissioned and will begin filming across the country later this month. Season 7 of Scotland's Home of the Year is available on iPlayer
