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A modern estate villa in Kelso with impressive credentials and an unrivalled setting
Built in 2008 as part of local builder M&J Ballantyne’s East Broomlands Estate in Kelso – since re-named Riverside Drive – number 30 is a substantial detached villa occupying a fully enclosed double-size corner plot in an elevated setting with southerly rooftop views over woodland and countryside. One of the largest property styles on the development – and one of only two that has an upside-down layout – this property was designed and built by present owner David Burgher, who was also the architect for the entire development, which speaks volumes about the overall quality of the build and finish.
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Riverside Drive, Kelso
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Riverside Drive, Kelso
“My wife Julie and I were looking for a house in or around Kelso at the time and when I was offered the prime spot on the development we jumped at the opportunity and I got to design our own house as well as all the others,” he reveals.
Featured Property 30 Riverside Drive, Kelso, TD5 7RH
Offers Around £375,000 • Details on: Page 14
“The house was easy compared to the challenge we had with the garden. While many elevated settings result in tiered gardens, we cleared and levelled the site prior to landscaping”.
Not evident from the outside, the front entrance opens into a useable vestibule with a double-size cupboard for coats and shoes before continuing into the main wood-floored reception hall where a solid oak staircase steals the limelight.
“As a result, the first floor living accommodation has direct access to the garden from patio doors in the dining kitchen and a back door in the adjoining utility – effectively turning the first floor into a bungalow style home,” David adds.
Off this area is an impressive principal bedroom with built-in wardrobe storage and a spacious en suite bathroom with bath and separate tiled shower. There is also an internal door from the hall into the integral double garage.
Upstairs is a particularly bright first floor landing that benefits from a fully glazed wall to the front -facing dining room, a large room with wood flooring and a connecting door to the adjoining 16ft sitting room, which has a bay window to the front and a contemporary-style feature fireplace and Living Flame gas fire. Next again is the dining kitchen, a lovely room fitted with modern units and integrated appliances - hob, oven, grill, extractor, fridge freezer, dishwasher – and ample space for dining furniture.
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The kitchen also has sliding patio doors to a large paved patio orientated to make the most of the afternoon and evening sun. Adjacent to the kitchen is a fitted utility with matching units and space for laundry appliances – it also has access to the rear garden. Completing the upper floor accommodation are three large double bedrooms – all with built-in wardrobes - and a centrally located family bathroom with vanity storage, fully tiled corner shower cubicle and shelved cupboard.
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“My wife Julie and I were looking for a house in or around Kelso at the time and when I was offered the prime spot on the development we jumped at the opportunity and I got to design our own house as well as all the others”
The Burghers’ home has other notable features that are not evident at first sight, such as electric doors on the integral double garage, under-floor heating, and a whole house central vacuum system - a health benefit to anyone with allergies that works especially well with this property’s mix of wood, carpet and tiled flooring.
The uppermost part of the rear garden has double gates that could allow separate vehicle access if required. This area has in the past been granted planning permission and although this has since lapsed it could provide scope for further development in the future. The property also has an attractive monobloc front driveway and parking area.
Outside, the beautifully landscaped enclosed gardens are a key feature and a safe environment for pets and children. There are sheltered seating areas, places for outdoor dining, lawns, flowerbeds and herbaceous borders.
Number 30 Riverside Drive is an exceptional family home in a very desirable location. Kelso is one of the Borders most picturesque and unspoiled towns with numerous historic attractions, such as a 12th Century abbey, Flemish-style cobbled square, Floors Castle and an iconic bridge across the River Tweed - ancient landmarks that are complemented by excellent amenities, sports and leisure facilities, including an ice rink and racecourse. A lifestyle location that could be said to have it all.
Architect designed!