homes • interiors • style • expert advice • shopping • living
luxury properties in east central scotland brought to you by ESPC
Win
a two-night stay in a suite at fairmont st andrews
see page 19
get in the swing of it grab your clubs and try out three great golf trips
march 2012 £priceless
44
premier properties inside>>>
gorgeous gardens make the most of your outdoor space
Hot homes see inside for more beautiful properties and style tips
Premier contents
news
4 market summary A look at how the property sector in East Central Scotland fared in 2011 – and what to expect in 2012.
collection
property
12 charming & cheerful You may well fall in love with this exceptional eightbedroom former manse in East Lothian. 25 a real stately home An outstanding four-bedroom Georgian property with uninterrupted views of the Lammermuir Hills.
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40 serious slice of luxury A luxury apartment in a building that used to house female students attending the University of Edinburgh. 42 premier properties Eight pages of luxurious and stylish homes in East Central Scotland.
30 {on the cover}
18 welcome to the club Three great golfing escapes – plus an amazing competition. 34 destination dining Food for thought as we provide suggestions for gourmet getaways. 36 find fab food Our ‘man about town’ Jonathan Trew picks out some of the finest shops for essential items such as cheese, coffee, wine and meat. 50 MY EDINBURGH Hairdressing legend Jennifer Cheyne reveals some of her favourite spots in Edinburgh.
South Wing, Belford House, Glencorse, Midlothian
residential streets in Edinburgh. It is also available from the ESPC showroom on George Street. Premier Living is written, designed and published by Connect Communications (Scotland) Ltd on behalf of ESPC. www. connectcommunications.co.uk Premier Living is a magazine by ESPC, the No.1 place for advertising homes for sale in East Central Scotland. Premier Living is produced twice a year and is delivered to the premier
bathrooms
lifestyle
kitchens
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28 a work of art Try our tips and suggestions on how to decorate the ‘outdoor rooms’ of your home. 30 bathtime! Have a closer look at our selection of stylish items to spruce up your bathroom.
6 rich pickings Cast your eyes over our handpicked collection of stylish must-haves for the home.
8 delicious dreams Key factors and ideas to consider if you are designing a dream kitchen from scratch. 10 for all occasions Four examples of exceptional kitchens in houses that are currently for sale via ESPC.
gardens
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MAIN OFFICE ESPC, 90a George Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DF T: 0131 624 8000
EDITORIAL & DESIGN Editor: Leanne Watson Design and production: James Cargill, Renny Hutchison, Jim Byers, Paul McGinnity ADVERTISING ESPC Media Sales: Claire Boulton, Moyra Vivian Tel: 0131 624 8872 email: mediasales@espc.com
The views expressed in Premier Living are those of invited contributors and not necessarily those of ESPC. The information contained in Premier Living is of a general nature and is not to be taken as advice on any individual situation. ESPC accepts no liability to any person for loss or damage suffered as a consequence of their responding to, or placing reliance upon, any claim or representation made in any advertisement appearing in Premier Living. Readers should make appropriate enquiries and satisfy themselves before responding to any such advertisement, or placing reliance upon any such claim or representation. By so responding, or placing reliance, readers accept that they do so at their own risk. All prices correct at time of going to press © ESPC 2012. ISSN: 1469-3054. Printed on paper produced from fully sustainable forestry in accordance with FSC legislation.
Welcome
Welcome to the new issue of Premier Living. In this issue, we’ve expanded the scope of the magazine with more dining features, a look at motoring as well as the great Scottish game of golf. But it still contains a vibrant mix of the best properties for sale plus all the usual design, interiors and market advice. Since our last issue, we have completely redesigned our website. It is now much more modern and user-friendly. Searching for a property is quicker, smarter and easier with a simple text box which allows you to type exactly what you want to search for as well as lots more filters. We’ve also improved our Edinburgh showroom on George Street with a dramatic new design which creates a much more inviting atmosphere to browse the thousands of properties we have for sale. There is a comfortable lounge and dedicated ‘Ask The Experts’ zone to discuss all your home buying and selling needs. In terms of the property market itself, it is clear that a two-tier market is emerging. Smaller homes are struggling for sales while family homes, particularly those in more affluent areas, remain strongly in demand. However, a recent look at data from Registers of Scotland shows that at the top of the market, your buyer is far more likely to be local than from further afield. This is why it is important to market your home locally as effectively as possible – if you are not with ESPC, there is a strong chance many of your potential buyers will not find your home. The usual estate agency requirement to make your home stand out from all rest is now more true than ever before. Statement pieces, an exquisite kitchen and bathroom and modern design are often high on the list of would-be buyers. I hope you enjoy this issue. If you have any comments, please send them to marketing@espc.com Malcolm Cannon, chief executive, ESPC espc.com/premierliving 3
Premier market summary
ESPC’s Neil Harrison looks at the property picture in Edinburgh and across East Central Scotland
Signs of stability point to positive outlook
2011
was another hectic year for the economy both at home and abroad, with the overall picture a little less than rosy. Growth in the UK was below expectations, unemployment inched upwards and stories about the Eurozone debt crisis appeared regularly. Events in the local housing market have been rather less tumultuous. In the summer 2011 Premier Living, we reported that house prices during the first half of the year were a little below the high levels reached in 2010 and – generally speaking – that trend continued for the remainder of the year. Looking at prices being achieved by some of the larger family homes in Edinburgh, the average selling price of a house with four or more bedrooms in the capital last year stood at £432,374. That’s down 4 per cent from £450,189 in 2010. In East Lothian, the average price of larger properties also fell from £357,297 in 2010 to £338,198 last year. Interestingly, while the prices being achieved by these homes came down, the number of sales being completed rose. Across Edinburgh and the Lothians, there was a 7 per cent rise in the number of houses with four or more bedrooms, with Edinburgh seeing a marked increase
4 espc.com/premierliving
in sales of almost 15 per cent. A number of sellers adapted to market conditions and showed a little bit more willingness to negotiate with sellers on price in order to complete the sale. In fact, just 25 per cent of larger family homes sold in East Central Scotland achieved their Home Report valuation in 2011, down from 38 per cent in 2010. The level of discount against the valuation being achieved was often relatively small – typically less than 5 per cent – but this was enough in many cases
“Accepting a slightly lower offer for your current home can allow you to complete the sale” to satisfy both buyer and seller, resulting in last year’s increase in sales. For anyone looking to sell just now, with a home that has been on the market for a while, this is worth noting. Accepting a slightly lower offer for your current home can allow you to complete the sale and, if you’re also looking to buy, you can take advantage of market conditions by securing your new home for less than you may have expected to pay. Looking ahead, economic conditions
will remain challenging in 2012. Disposable income will continue to be constrained by slow earnings growth and the rising cost of consumer goods. It’s also unlikely that we’ll see a marked change in mortgage availability in the next 12 months. Balanced against this somewhat gloomy economic outlook is the demand for top-end properties in East Central Scotland. A typical premier property on espc.com can expect to receive in excess of 200 views of its property details each week it’s on the market, to say nothing of the number of buyers looking in the ESPC paper and our showrooms. The market should also be helped by the fact that interest rates are likely to stay low throughout the year. Overall, the projection is for house prices to remain broadly unchanged this year, with the number of homes selling also showing little change on 2011 levels. It may not be what everyone desires, but ultimately this sort of stability is in the best long-term interests of the market as it continues along the road to recovery.
{more information} You can keep abreast of all the latest happenings in the local market by visiting the News & Events section of espc.com
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier property news
Local exposure should be given priority
about our magazine...
homes • interiors • style • expert advice • shopping • living
luxury properties in
east central scotland
brought to you by espC
march 2012 £priCeless
44
a two-night stay in a suite at fairmont st andrews
premier properties
see page 19
inside>>>
get in the swing of it grab your clubs and try out three great golf trips
gorgeous gardens make the most of your outdoor space
Hot homes see inside for more beautiful
properties and style
hotel missoni competition winner Congratulations to Mr Alexander Douglas of Edinburgh who was the winner of two nights’ bed and breakfast and two one-hour spa treatments at Hotel Missoni, Edinburgh. For your chance to win a fantastic golfing break, turn to page 19.
tips
Many people question whether their buyer will be local, someone relocating from elsewhere in the UK or even from further afield. Contrary to popular belief (or what those who cannot advertise with ESPC may tell you), the vast majority of homes sold in excess of £500,000 in Edinburgh, Lothians and Fife are bought by someone already living in the area. Looking at independent data from the Registers of Scotland on every home sold for in excess of £500,000 (since August 2009 in Edinburgh, Lothians and Fife), the location of the buyer of the property is broken down as per the chart, right. What does this all mean? If you are selling a property in Edinburgh, Lothians or Fife, in eight properties out of 10, the buyer will be within the area covered by ESPC. This goes up to nine in 10 if you are looking across Scotland. Only an ESPC solicitor estate agent can advertise your property on our website, in our free paper and in one of our showrooms. Separate independent research into property
Where will your buyer come from? Overseas
England & Wales Rest of Scotland
Edinburgh, Lothians & Fife
buying has shown that ESPC is where buyers in this area look first and where sellers want their home advertised first. So, when this is combined with the evidence of local people being the key buyers in Edinburgh, Lothians and Fife, it is clear that ESPC is the number one marketing channel.
It’s all about you Last year saw the launch of the new-look ESPC website, which has undergone a dramatic transformation. The new-look website was created following consultation with members of the public. The site is quicker, easier and smarter to use and features intuitive searching allowing the user to type exactly what they want into the search box and receive accurate results. There are also a variety of ways to conduct more detailed and specific searches using a variety of previously unavailable filters. All available property details are displayed on the site, including the schedule, floor plan, images, videos and Home Report where available. This provides everything you need when looking for a new home. The website also features latest house price analysis, news and lots of information about buying and selling. Our George Street showroom also has had a recent revamp, providing a more contemporary and spacious atmosphere for house hunting. Premier properties (those valued at more than £500,000) are displayed on screens in our showroom windows, thereby providing maximum exposure and a variety of experts, including solicitors, financial advisers and design experts, are available in the showroom daily to answer all home buying and selling questions. espc.com/premierliving 5
© Crown copyright material reproduced with the permission of Registers of Scotland
ESPC’s Premier Living is published twice a year – in March and September. With a circulation of 20,000, 75 per cent of copies are delivered to the areas of Edinburgh where you will find higher value properties based on data from ESPC’s unique property archive. A copy can also be obtained from your local solicitor, ESPC showrooms and other select locations. Premier Living is a celebration of fantastic properties, design tips, local knowledge and ideas to help make a home fabulous. It can be read online at www.espc. Win com/premierliving
Premier collection
From a distinctive desk to the finest silverware, cast your eyes over our handpicked collection of the latest stylish must-haves for your home
Rich pickings Premier Living at cala’s Luxurious Trinity Park
distraction-free desk
This Rewrite desk has a cave-like shield on top to create a private working environment. The fibreglass cocoon is covered in a foam and woollen fabric, while the desk is made of walnut. A slit in the back accommodates cables while a lacquered steel container underneath conceals loose wires. From Ligne Roset Edinburgh, £1,742. (0131 555 0100/www.ligne-roset.co.uk)
Cala Homes’ Trinity Park is set to become one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious city-centre developments. It offers a mix of high quality Georgian-inspired villas, mews homes and apartments enclosed within a timeless walled garden. The first phase of homes at this exclusive development has now been released. Five four-bedroom villas, providing between 2,198 and 2,342 sq ft of luxurious living space, are available with prices starting from £775,000. Two stunning showhomes are open daily, bringing the development’s modern take on Edinburgh’s classic Georgian architecture to life. With classic facades and high-proportioned doors and ceilings, combined with all the advantages of contemporary living – such as uncompromisingly modern kitchens, convenient en-suites and stylish open-plan living spaces – Trinity Park is the epitome of premier living. (www.trinity-park.co.uk)
contemporary and timeless silverware
Hamilton & Inches has created a new line of iconic Scottish table silverware; the ‘stags head’ collection is a fresh twist on an old classic – showing that modern silverware can be both contemporary and timeless. For something extra special, hand engraving can make your new heirloom a truly unique piece of art. Quaich, £790; ice bucket, £5,000; Champagne bucket, £7,800. (www.hamiltonandinches.com /0131 225 4898)
branch out with lovely lovi trees Lovi trees are made in Finland from birch plywood and can be decorated according to the season, with eggs for Easter, green for summer, and red and gold balls for Christmas. Alternatively, birch birds (supplied separately) look good all year round. Available in small, medium and large sizes from Hus and Hem, prices range from £58 to £395. (01531 631044/ www.husandhem.co.uk) 6 espc.com/premierliving
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier kitchens Right: Clive Christian’s ‘Architectural’ kitchen in ivory painted finish. Below: floating handle-less kitchen by Warendorf and, below right, textured ‘sawn oak’ kitchen, also by Warendorf – both available exclusively from Craighead & Woolf
If you are planning to design your ‘dream kitchen’ from scratch, the minimalist style is still a popular look WORDS: JULIA CORREIA
Delicious dreams
K
itchens have become such a focal point in modern living that more and more homeowners are choosing to design theirs from scratch. If you are planning to create your ‘dream kitchen’, it is wise to turn to a professional kitchen designer to discuss the latest trends and appliances to see what suits your lifestyle and needs. When it comes to following current kitchen design trends, it’s always a good idea to choose from them wisely and think about longevity, according to Alan Craighead from leading kitchen architects Craighead and Woolf. He said: “The minimalist kitchen is a style that has real legs and continues to stay current because of the clean and simple lines – simplicity is the key to both beauty and timelessness. If you wish, you can introduce textures and muted colour into a clean-edged design to add interest and softness.” Alan said appliances have also become a major focus in kitchens. “Appliances have gone through a huge transformation. Some of the 8 espc.com/premierliving
main changes include the introduction of the combination steam oven, as people are becoming more interested in the quality, nutrition and texture of their food than they are about how fast it cooks. Another major change is that gas hobs have almost vanished off the market completely now that we have the option of induction hobs. Even professional Michelin-Starred chefs are changing from gas to induction hobs as a more responsive, cleaner and safer option.” Sid Harrison, the Managing Director of Clive Christian Scotland, which is based in Glasgow, agrees that longevity is a key consideration when it comes to investing in a new kitchen. “Updating a kitchen, or designing one from scratch, is a major investment – customers will spend a lot of money on it, so they don’t want it to go out of fashion in a few years. Our kitchens give a timeless, classic look which stands the test of time – for example, we created a kitchen in a house in the West End of Edinburgh 20 years ago and when the owner sold the house recently, the kitchen was still a major selling point.”
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
premier kitchens Dream island
This custom-built kitchen adds style and functionality to a busy family home. Keeping some of the features from the original kitchen, the room still has the Victorian cornicing and radiator covers, but has been modernised with elements such as the Norfolk oak work surfaces and integrated storage. But the standout feature is the island that functions as a food preparation area, wine rack and storage unit as well as housing an integrated microwave. This property in Shandon is now sold.
From contemporary style to a more traditional look, check out these four great examples of premier kitchens from the current crop of houses for sale with an ESPC solicitor estate agent – see espc.com for more information
For all occasions country living
You can enjoy traditional luxury country living in this 300-year-old farmhouse property. The kitchen is in keeping with its roots, its oiled oak-top furniture and handmade marble worktops give the room a rural feel, but one of the stand-out features of the room is the AGA offering warmth and character to the space. Another notable feature is the exquisite views. You can stare out across the moors and the hills and spot the local wildlife such as deer. 14 Howgate, Howgate, Midlothian, EH26 8QB – offers around £549,000
a Place to entertain
This former living space has been extended to fit a top-of-the-range kitchen that offers indoor and outdoor dining areas. This kitchen has three Bosch ovens and one induction hob oven, white quartz worktops and French doors that lead out to two separate outdoor dining areas. Given its position in the house, the kitchen gets the best hours of sunlight and, as it is six square metres in size, it’s the perfect place to entertain. The view from the kitchen is spectacular – you can look out over the hills and nearby woods and even listen to the calming sounds of the stream just outside. 15 Laverockdale Park, Edinburgh, EH13 0QE – fixed price £949,950 10 espc.com/premierliving
Stylish and spacious
The modern stylish and spacious kitchen in this showhome provides plenty of room for cooking and entertaining. It’s been finished to a high specification, with storage units, granite worktops and integrated appliances arranged along one wall, and an island providing additional facilities for food preparation in the centre of the floor. The floor has the appearance of lacquered stone tiles. There’s a big American fridge freezer, and a microwave, oven, grill, gas cooker and a dishwasher safely stored away. 3 Redhall House Drive, Edinburgh EH14 1JE – offers around £775,000 ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier property
Our writer fell in love with this charismatic house – why not check it out for yourself?
Knowledge b ase
Last year vi espc.com spen sitors to 32,511 days t a total of on th that’s more th e site – an 89 years!
words: richard croasdale photography: rob mcdougall
A
former manse in East Lothian, Winfields comprises a three-storey, eight-bedroom house with outbuildings and a substantial garden, enclosed by a high stone wall. It was once part of a larger complex of buildings leading down to the local kirk. Walking through the double wrought iron gates and following the gravel drive under a canopy of mature trees, it is easy to forget that Winfields is in the midst of a vibrant coastal community and only a short distance from the capital. The ground floor revolves around a large hallway, where previous owners have had the good sense not to cover up the beautiful original woodwork. The drawing room is a wonderfully warm space, with a large open fireplace. As is the case throughout the property, the walls have been painted with carefully chosen period colours – sympathetically avoiding the safe option of neutral tones and enhancing each room’s distinctive character. Immediately next to the living room, a long dining room looks out onto the garden on two sides. One of several “wow” moments in this property, the dining room features a truly impressive original wooden floor, only recently uncovered after decades under a carpet. Bordered with parquet, the centre of the floor is made up of thick boards of dark timber, worn and polished with use. The current owners’ research suggests this room would originally have been used for dancing, as well as dining. Moving out of the central hallway, we pass a music room (again overlooking the rear garden) and large shower room, before reaching another of the property’s more interesting features; an entirely self-contained flat in its easterly wing. This small, but very functional, two-story flat comprises a decent-sized living room and separate kitchen, with an attractive double bedroom on the first floor accessed via its own staircase. It also has its own main door to the driveway and could be permanently 12 espc.com/premierliving
Charming & cheerful
closed off from the main house, creating the potential for letting, or a separate dwelling for visiting family. Back in the main house, a grand staircase leads to the first floor landing, off which are situated six double bedrooms, a charming single bedroom/nursery and a small seventh bedroom or study. Each of these rooms has something to distinguish it, whether an original open fire, beautiful cornicing, woodwork, or a particularly fine view. To the rear of the building is a stone spiral staircase, which would once have been used by servants and now leads down to the
kitchen and lower ground floor. Aside from the generous kitchen, the lower ground floor is a traditional cook’s dream, boasting a larder, large pantry and subterranean cold cellar. This floor also provides the main access to the rear garden. As well as a large lawn with several trees and an attractive, mature pond, the garden also features a substantial dropped vegetable plot in one corner. The high stone walls in this area still bear the grooves from the glasshouses which would originally have covered the plot. And it doesn’t take long to see why; south facing, well sheltered and with
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier property
Or you might like... 2 Netherby Road, Edinburgh, EH5 3NA Occupying a large corner plot, the property has a delightfully leafy east/west aspect and comprises a substantial stone-built endterraced villa with walled garden and garage. This meticulously maintained and cherished family home offers a rare quality of accommodation. Includes five bedrooms and three public rooms. In the region of £710,000 www.espc.com/netherbyroad Contact MacMac on 0131 220 3336
The heart of the home
In the main hallway, a right-angled staircase sweeps around to the first-floor landing, creating a double-height void in the centre. As well as being a bright, attractive welcome to the property in its own right, this space had a special use for the current owners; each Christmas, they would take a tree tall enough to reach up both storeys and pass it through the Victorian terrace door on the first floor, filling the space completely.
the dark, rich soil typical of the area, this corner of the grounds is a gardener’s paradise. In short, Winfields is a family home to fall in love with. Sprawling, often eccentric, but absolutely full of charm, it is hard to stand under its roof and not feel a little more cheerful just for having done so.
{more information} Winfields, East Loan, EH32 9EB, fixed price £750,000. For more information, contact Simpson & Marwick on 01620 892000, or visit www.espc.com/winfields
The kitchen
This is a kitchen which proudly shuns excessive modernity, in favour of a more traditional approach. Exposed brickwork, stone floor tiles, antique pine cabinets and wonderfully practical Belfast sinks are the order of the day, while a great deal of the room is given over to a breakfast/ general social space. With a large utility room and cosy family room adjacent, this really is a kitchen to bring people together.
espc.com/premierliving 13
Premier style
Neutral greys and bold blues are the key colours this season
elegant and stylish
get the look
Main pic: the elegant Sable wall colour goes well with rich sapphire tones. Left: the clean and crisp pale amethyst colours in Laura Ashley’s Wisteria Trails collection helps to create a relaxed ambience.
words: julia correIa
It’s
all about cool sophistication this Spring/Summer season with neutral greys and bold blues creating modern, elegant living spaces. Greys continue to be the in-vogue palette choice for many. This season, you will see that trend move towards more greyed neutrals as Gillian Farr, Head of Design at Laura Ashley, explained: “The trend for greyed neutral tones is definitely proving popular in our stores – our Pale Twine is currently our bestselling paint colour. “Greys are calming and layer well with colour both soft and strong, such as our soft duck egg blue or new stronger sapphire blue.” The grey and blue shades are a key trend in Laura Ashley stores for the coming season in their Casual Chic bedroom collection, although these colours are also suited to sitting rooms and hallways. “Our new Dove Grey paint complements our luxurious Casual Chic bedroom collection,” added Gillian. “And our new Sable paint calms down the bold, yet sophisticated, geometrics in our sapphire Twilight Tones collection. “These new paint colours are versatile and will work well with many of our fabrics and wallpapers. For a darker grey, use our Pale French Grey or Truffle paints,” Gillian said. The combination of soft grey neutral tones with daring blue accents helps to create a fresh homely look that exudes luxury and style. 14 espc.com/premierliving
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier style
If you are considering a makeover for a room or even your whole house, meet two local interior designers who can add a touch of creative magic
Jackie Fisken Design Director, Ampersand Interiors Born and bred in Edinburgh, Jackie Fisken has always been fascinated with interior design. “As a child, I always loved looking at people’s houses,” she explained. “Not just houses that were expensively done up, but the houses you’d go to and they just had a great atmosphere. I always loved that and I wanted to figure out why those houses were just so wonderful to be in. I try to recreate that feeling in the homes I design for my clients.” Jackie started her career with an apprenticeship at Dunedin Interiors before leaving to start up Ampersand Interiors, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. Jackie now heads up the design team at Ampersand’s showroom on Dublin Street and oversees projects such as designing Edinburgh penthouses, old townhouses or even country fishing lodges. Jackie and her team also create dream homes for people all over the UK and even further afield. As well as working on residential properties, she has worked on commercial properties such as bars and restaurants. Ampersand offers a multitude of specialist services – alongside its vast team of designers with years of experience, Ampersand also has its own interior
architecture department to help pull together designs and plans to meet client specifications. As well as this, Ampersand also sell a selection of soft home furnishings and designs its own range of bespoke furniture, which is handmade by artisan craftsmen and finished to the highest quality. Ampersand’s team of designers are led by their client’s brief, creating beautifully designed homes that reflect the individual tastes of their client. But, personally, Jackie has her own distinct style. She said: “I’m inspired by the works of David Hicks [English interior decorator and designer known for mixing antique and modern furnishings] and Kelly Wearstler [American interior designer and fashion designer]. I admire how they mix interesting old and new pieces to create truly individual homes.” The biggest compliment Jackie has received
regarding the work she’s done was at Ampersand Interiors 20th-anniversary celebrations, which she held in the showroom. “Many of the people coming through the door were customers I had 20 years ago who are still happy with the work we do,” she said. To find out more about Jackie and Ampersand Interiors, visit www.ampersandinteriors.co.uk
Great designers of our time – Marcel Wanders Julian Darwell-Stone continues his series on great designers with a review of a Dutchman who has become renowned for his original designs that exhibit individuality and humour. MARCEL WANDERS Marcel is a product and interior designer who began his career with the innovative Dutch design house, Droog. He won international recognition for his iconic Knotted Chair (several of which featured at the launch of the Missoni Hotel in Edinburgh). In 2001, Wanders co-founded Moooi and he remains
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responsible for art direction and corporate identity. He has designed furniture, lighting, textiles, wallpaper and accessories, often including an unexpected design quirk (the Financial Times has spoken about his ‘exuberant creativity’). Wanders is increasingly involved in
architectural and interior design projects around the world. His sense of the theatrical is visible in buildings as diverse as the Mondrian Hotel in Miami, the Villa Moda store in Bahrain and houses in Amsterdam and Jakarta. The Marcel Wanders ‘brand’ has become ubiquitous as he now designs for global brands and leading
furniture companies including B&B Italia, Cappellini, Flos and Magis, KLM, Google, and M.A.C cosmetics. Most recently, he has launched a collection of homewares for Marks & Spencer, ranging from cake stands to candlesticks. His products can be found in many of the most important design museums around the world and he has won numerous awards in recognition of designs that are innovative and characterful. Julian Darwell-Stone is the Managing Director of Tangram, leading experts in contemporary furniture and interiors. Visit www.tangramfurnishers.co.uk
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier style Sara Sutherland Owner, Sara Sutherland Interiors Entrepreneur Sara began her career in interior design through her property development company, before moving her focus to interior design full-time. Her company has been running successfully in the east coast of Scotland for six years, providing her clients with sophisticated, glamorous and elegant homes, while still offering a more edgy side to her designs should the client require it. Sara classes her own personal style of design as an amalgamation of contemporary, edgy and a little vintage, but explained that one of her professional talents as an interior designer is in interpreting the vision of her client and turning it into something they will really love. She said: “Everyone is so different, some people might have some pretty whacky ideas and my job is to adapt them in order to make it work, no matter what style it is, from edgy and contemporary to glamorous or classic with a vintage feel. It’s quite broad.” Sara takes a great deal of her inspiration from travel – she loves to visit different places to take in different themes, colours and textures and cultures that she can adapt and offer to her clients back home. “I like to have an international influence – it’s very different depending on what country you are in.
Scandinavian design is very different to French design, which is different to Asian design. It’s nice to have all those different influences – to mix them together and create something really spectacular,” she said. Her favourite aspect of the design process is watching an initial idea become a reality. She said: “I love the evolution process. Taking something that the client has said they want and then coming in and making it look amazing then handing the keys back and saying ‘voila’!” To find out more about Sara’s work, visit www.sarasutherland.co.uk
espc.com/premierliving 17
Premier leisure Scotland boasts some of the best golf courses in the world – from “royal and ancient” championship courses to modern, exquisitely maintained grassed and wooded parks. If you are planning a golf trip, here are three options to consider at some of the finest courses in the world
Welcome to the club For a weekend break St Andrews is renowned worldwide as “the home of golf”, with no fewer than 10 courses in the immediate area and more than 30 within a half-hour’s drive. The 10 courses in the town, which suit all player levels, make St Andrews the largest golf complex in Europe and the world’s leading golf destination. Championship courses in the immediate area include the famous Old Course and the New Course; The Duke’s St Andrews; and Kingsbarns. Within driving distance are Carnoustie and Open qualifying courses such as Lundin Links. On the iconic Old Course, it is easier to obtain a tee time than you might think. There are four main ways to do so, if you have a suitable handicap (24 for men and 36 for women): • purchase a guaranteed premium tee time for your party
On your doorstep Archerfield Links, which opened in 2004, offers two acclaimed golf courses – the Fidra and the Dirleton – in East Lothian, just an hour’s drive from Edinburgh. Situated between their long-established neighbours at North Berwick and Muirfield, these two new courses had much to live up to, but both are highly rated. The Fidra course lies between the 8th hole at Muirfield and 9th hole at North Berwick and blends very well into the group of premium golfing destinations in this corner of East Lothian. It’s the attention to detail that separates nearby Dirleton from many of its competitors, and helps to raise Archerfield Links to the top of the class. Golfers will find the distance to the hole marked out on the fairway sprinkler heads, and have the benefit of sleepered bridges to take them across the course’s drainage ditches, with white sea shells marking many of the paths between holes. In addition to the two courses, Archerfield boasts an elegant clubhouse and a range of accommodation – from stylish wooden lodges to rooms in the magnificent Archerfield House. For more information about Archerfield, visit www.archerfieldgolfclub.com 18 espc.com/premierliving
• apply through the advanced reservations process at the start of September for play the following year • enter the ballot which is drawn 48 hours in advance • single golfers can approach the Starter on the day they wish to play and he will try to slot them in with groups going out that day. For an overnight stay, the five-star Old Course Hotel is situated beside the renowned 17th ‘Road Hole’ of the Old Course and its spectacular location provides an inspiring view of the famous links courses and the beach at West Sands. Just along the Fife coast, the Fairmont St Andrews is another hotel that offers world-class golf and accommodation. The resort won the European Golf Resort of the Year 2012 from IAGTO (the International Association of Golf Tour Operators). For more information, visit www.standrews.org.uk, www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk and www.fairmont.com/ standrews
The Old Course, St Andrews
Fairmont St Andrews
The spa at Fairmont St Andrews
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier leisure
Valderrama often hosts major tournaments
No expense spared Club de Golf Valderrama – regarded by many people as the best course in continental Europe – is located in Andalucia, with a climate that is ideal for year-round golf. A few miles north of Gibraltar, it is approximately two hours’ drive from Cadiz and one-and-ahalf hours from Malaga. The Par 71 Championship Course is no easy examination of golfing prowess. It’s been designed to test the player’s ability – at every shot on every hole. The man who designed the course, Robert Trent Jones Senior, is one of the finest golf course architects in the world – and Valderrama is undoubtedly one of his greatest triumphs.
The inspirational course layout is matched by the care taken by the greenkeeping staff to keep the course in impeccable condition. The course is carefully managed to avoid too much play ruining its condition. Although the Valderrama Club is extremely exclusive, owner Jaime Ortiz-Patiño has made it available to the public as well. For a well-appointed hotel nearby, try the five-star Kempinski Hotel Bahía in Marbella – around 45 minutes along the coastal highway from Málaga International Airport. Jet2 airline offers flights, from April, four days a week (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays), to Malaga from Edinburgh. To find out more visit: www.valderrama.com and http://kempinski-marbella. com espc.com/premierliving 19
Premier collection
We’ve hunted down a selection of stunning items that could be just what you are looking for...
Objects of desire let there be light
This Marset Pleat Box light combines a digitallydesigned crease in a piece of cloth and a ceramic base in either under-glazed red clay (shown here) or grey. It can also be supplied in gold on the inside, which gives off a warm light. Available in four sizes, from 13cm to 47cm diameter. From £225 to £600 from Inhouse. (0131 225 2888/www.inhouse-uk.com or www.marset.com)
dwell branches out into kitchens
customised comfort Leading Danish furniture retailer BoConcept is renowned for its stylish modular furniture, which can be customised to fit individual needs. One of its most iconic products is this stunning Imola armchair – which has a clever swivel and tilting function. It comes in a wide range of fabrics and leathers allowing total customisation – from £1,795. BoConcept has a store in Glasgow and delivers all over Scotland. (0141 341 4920/www.boconcept.co.uk) 20 espc.com/premierliving
dwell, one of the UK’s leading high street furniture retailers, has launched a kitchen range – dwell Kitchens. With a range of more than 20 styles to choose from, and a selection of handles, finishes, worktops and electrical fixtures for each collection, customers can create a truly bespoke kitchen for the heart of their home. Its sleek and sophisticated kitchen designs can be viewed at its Glasgow store in Princes Square. (0845 675 9090/ www.dwell.co.uk)
scandinavian style in scotland
Tobi Design is an Edinburgh-based design company producing hand-crafted bespoke furniture using sustainable Scottish hardwoods. This Timo table is a prime example, showing fine flowing forms inspired by Scandinavian furniture of the 50s and 60s. The table, which is made in solid oak, is available in two sizes and can be made in a variety of timbers. The oak table costs £450 and individual commissions are undertaken. (0131 208 3432/www.tobi-design.net)
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier style
Left: this Art Deco sapphire and diamond brooch from the 1930s sold for £7,250 at Bonhams in Edinburgh in December 2011
Make a bid for glory If
you are planning a foray into the world of antiques or fine art, a good place to start is Bonhams, on Queen Street, in Edinburgh’s New Town. It’s the only international auction house with a saleroom in Scotland, and it offers a number of antiques and fine art auctions throughout the year. It’s a great place to start looking at investing in antiques, as Managing Director Miranda Grant explained. “My advice to anyone who’s looking at buying any sort of antiques or artworks, is to buy things they like. If you are a lover of antiques and want to get further into it, then it is a very nice way to invest money. But the driving force ought to be the love of the subject, and not just the investment potential.” If you are considering buying antiques or fine art, Miranda has a couple of tips. “At the moment antique Asian art, particularly in the Chinese art market, is very popular indeed. World gold and diamond prices are also very high, and so is silver. The furniture market is
Miranda Grant from Bonhams provides some handy tips on investing in antiques
also notable – it amazes me that people will spend £1000 on a brand new wardrobe when they can buy a magnificent Georgian, Victorian or Edwardian wardrobe at auction for a similar cost. “That’s especially true for someone who lives in one of Edinburgh’s many beautiful period properties. To buy a piece of beautiful antique furniture that will grace their home seems to me to be a great thing to do. Scottish art is another area of keen interest among local collectors – and Edinburgh is the perfect place to start exploring. There are so many wonderful Scottish painters – if someone wanted to build up a collection, they could start by looking at the Scottish colourists.” Miranda added: “A lot of people are nervous about buying at auction, but we have some of the best subject specialists available, and they will be delighted to give potential buyers advice if they want to get into a specific area of collecting.”
Above: Anne Redpath ‘Poppies and Mixed Blooms’ – estimate: £50,000 – £70,000. Left: ‘Flowers and Fruit’ by Samuel John Peploe sold in August for £512,000. Above right: this bottle of Glenfiddich was 55 years old and sold in December for £46, 850, a world record for a bottle of whisky at auction. Inset below: Miranda Grant, Bonhams
expert advice Bonhams, at 22 Queen Street, Edinburgh, employs a number of specialist art and antiques experts, who deal with everything from fine pictures, furniture, works of art and jewellery, to silver, ceramics, books, collectables and modern design. Call 0131 225 2266 or visit www.bonhams.com/scotland Other Edinburgh salerooms include: • Ramsay Cornish Auctioneers and Valuers, 15 - 17 Jane Street, Edinburgh. • Lyon & Turnbull, 33 Broughton Place, Edinburgh • Shapes Auctioneers, Bankhead Medway, Sighthill, Edinburgh. 22 espc.com/premierliving
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier property
The south wing of Belwood House boasts breathtaking rooms full of original features and lovely views over the surrounding countryside words: richard croasdale
S
Stately home
et in stunning countryside to the south of Edinburgh, with an uninterrupted view of the Lammermuir Hills, this late Georgian, four-bedroom end terrace property comprises the entire south wing of the stately Belwood House.
Designed to impress in the early 19th Century, the proportions and elegance of its architecture are still breathtaking and romantic, yet far from intimidating. Coming up the winding gravel drive, the house (invisible from the road) reveals itself gradually, in classic and well-kept Edinburgh sandstone.
The grand stained glass private entrance vestibule of the south wing formed the main entrance until Belwood was divided into its three constituent houses in the 1970s. Stepping into the large hallway with
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Premier property The conservatory
The conservatory’s Georgian design sensibilities are brought seamlessly up to date, with self-cleaning double glazing, under-floor heating and roof ventilation. The current owner says this is a room where the whole family tends to gravitate. And it is easy to see why; it is a bright, welcoming space, with pleasant, consistent warmth and a wonderful 180-degree view of the beautiful Lothian countryside.
555 The master bedroom
Utterly characteristic of this architectural style, everything about the master bedroom is designed on a dramatic scale, yet manages to avoid feeling imposing. This is due in no small part to the curved-pane windows, which reach nearly the full height of the east-facing wall and catch an astonishing amount of light, which reflects off the highly polished wooden floor. With a few pieces of large, well chosen furniture, the light and space create an atmosphere of cool, luxurious calm.
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its sweeping staircase, the immediate impression is of height and space. The 13ft ceiling of the hallway passes through a broad arch, before soaring up with the sweeping staircase to the first floor. The entire double-height space is flooded with light by an exceptionally tall, elegant window, which runs from the landing midway up the stair, almost to the ceiling. The ground floor reception room’s ability to make an impression has not diminished with the years, while the faithfulness of the décor – with its large, black marble fireplace and luxurious botanical wallpaper in the style of William Morris – only adds to the drama of the setting. Like every room in the building, many of its original features are not only intact, but in immaculate condition, including the elaborate cornicing and shutters. Off the main reception room is an ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier property
Or you might like.. 3/1 Lennox Street, Edinburgh, EH4 1QB A superbly restored, bright and spacious B-listed Georgian ground and garden flat. The property boasts period features and has been recently upgraded. Includes sitting room, dining kitchen with Aga, master bedroom with en-suite, three further double bedrooms and private gardens. Offers over £665,000. www.espc.com/lennoxstreet Contact Purdie & Co on 0131 346 7240
Fit for a baroness
Belwood House was reputedly built as the dower house for Baroness Sempill of the nearby Glencorse House. When the baroness’s husband died in the early 19th Century, she moved into the original, central section of the house, which is early Georgian in design. She then built the south wing (around the 1820s) to give her larger, more formal accommodation. The north wing was added at a later date, probably during the 1850s. photography: rob mcdougall
impressive Clive Christian kitchen, which boasts plenty to delight the serious modern cook, without deviating too drastically from the decorative style which dominates the rest of the property. Extra tall cupboards take advantage of the high ceilings, while a large gas range, marble worktops and a built-in double drawer dishwasher reveal this to be a kitchen for real culinary creation. The kitchen opens out into a wellproportioned dining area, comfortably large enough for a big family dining table, but without the formality of the main reception room. Once again, the design and décor of this combined kitchen and dining area are executed with a clear sense of purpose, successfully creating a space with a character all of its own. Through a discreet door in the corner of the kitchen, an inner hallway provides useful extra storage space – one of several substantial storage/utility areas – away from the reception rooms. The adjoining
ground floor shower room is another wonderfully practical addition to the original layout. On the other side of the downstairs reception room, steps lead up into a conservatory of similarly impressive proportions. Rather than taking the easy route of replacing the sadly dilapidated original conservatory with a more modest, modern equivalent, the current owner used photographic records and specialist craftsman to build a timber structure with the same footprint and similar design touches. Moving up the main stair to the first floor, there is a broad hallway, off which are situated the property’s four generous bedrooms. The master bedroom was once a drawing room – the property’s main entertaining space – and, as such, boasts even more spectacular dimensions than the dining room immediately below. Its lofty ceiling is bordered with elaborate and unusually well preserved cornicing and features
the original plaster ceiling rose. The second bedroom is spacious, with an attractive view to the west and a large en-suite bathroom, while the third and fourth are bright and tastefully decorated. The property’s garden has been landscaped into distinct areas, glades and nooks, with a sheltered paved area immediately next to the house providing the perfect spot for al-fresco dining. While large and well stocked (most notably with a number of stunning mature rhododendrons), the garden has been created to require very little maintenance. Beyond the garden is an area of woodland, shared with the adjacent property.
{more information}
South Wing, Belwood House, Belwood Road, Glencorse, Midlothian, EH26 0NL, offers around £750,000. For more information, call Russel + Aitken on 0131 202 0600 or visit: www.espc.com/belwoodhouse
espc.com/premierliving 27
Premier gardens are you sitting comfortably?
add an artistic touch outside
Stephen Myburgh’s copper and metal artworks – swings, balconies, railings, water features and more – are exquisitely beautiful and functional, but also sympathetic to the environment. Shown here is the fairy-like Jasmine swing, which has twisted curling florets of wrought iron tumbling down to enclose a willow basket and nest of cushions. Sweetly scented climbing jasmine can also be intertwined to complement the swing’s natural surroundings. Swing only, £2,750 + VAT; freestanding half-circle stand, £500 + VAT. (01428 741 768/www.myburghdesigns.com)
Outdoor art is becoming big news – and this ‘Winter’s Embrace of Icy White’ is one of several different designs that are handpainted on a handmade frame with a panelled backboard made from reclaimed antique Victorian roof timbers. The finished piece is then overprinted with UV ink. Cost – £149. (Available from online eco store www.e-side.co.uk)
brilliant bbQs – at your table
Summer is a time for food, friends… and fire. Cole Henley gas-fired barbecue tables are a revolutionary way of entertaining outdoors. Each grill is independently controlled and as easy to use as switching on the burners at the control panel and selecting your cooking temperature. Available from John Lewis – six-seater table, £2,600; eight seater, £3,100 and matching bench sets from £700. (0131 556 9121/www.johnlewis.com)
Turn your garden into a work of art
get away from it all
A summerhouse can make a magical addition to a garden, be it a writer’s retreat or a child’s secret den. The Forest Garden Henley is an elegant summerhouse made from kilndried, pressure-treated timber with black felt shingle roof tiles, brass window and door furniture and laminated safety glass. From Dobbies Garden Centres, £2,599. (0844 840 8404/www.dobbies.com) 28 espc.com/premierliving
fall in love Mighty oaks from little acorns grow… and then furniture designer Marnie Moyle at Green Oak Furniture turns the wood into stunning original garden furniture and accessories. Her ‘Love Seat’ was the item that initiated the first-ever Green Oak collection; solid, supportive and also sculptural, this quiet piece is simply held together with wedges for one to enjoy alone or for sharing. Priced around £2,875, stockists include Millers Tale in St Andrews. (Visit www.greenoakfurniture.co.uk)
Now commonly perceived as ‘outdoor rooms’, today’s gardens are seen as an extension of the home and, as such, may need to cope with the demands of different age groups – a safe playground for children, a gardener’s passion, a private refuge and a place for eating and socialising with family and friends. As with indoors, an outdoor living space calls for decoration. Traditional garden sculptures like sundials and statues still have their place in a formal landscape, but the latest look is garden art. Use contemporary images (or create your own) to add a unique focal point to a patio or garden wall – the possibilities open up a whole new realm of garden artworks. ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier bathrooms
Bathtime!
If you are planning to spruce up your bathroom, check out this selection of stylish items cool cabinet
The Inside Out bathroom cabinet features a bold graphic etched into the cabinet door. Made from aluminium composite material, this stylish cabinet has previously won Elle Decoration’s British Design Award for Best In Bathrooms. From Heal’s, £315. (08700 240 780/www.heals.co.uk)
smart shower system
A new shower that is as individual as you are, the Mira Platinum is an easy-to-use wireless, digital shower that allows you to set your preferred temperature and flow from up to 10 metres away. Cleverer still, having reached the right temperature, it then pauses, ready to be reactivated when you step in. It also has an eco setting, clock display and a showerhead with Flipstream technology to give a variety of showering options, from a full-on burst of massaging water to a drenching rain spray or soft and soothing cloudburst. RRP £598.80. (For local stockists, call 0844 571 5000 or visit www.mirashowers.co.uk)
flexible designs The Bouroullec bathroom collection for Axor has flexibility at its heart. Now available in the UK, the collection comprises more than 70 products that let you choose where to locate taps, handles and preferred type of mounting. From £750. (From Hansgrohe stockists, which include Laings on 0131 555 5500 and Victor Paris on 0845 6076944 in Edinburgh or visit www.hansgrohe.co.uk)
clean and classic
make an impression
Beautiful and tactile, Crystal Glass Watercube is a sheet-style glass mosaic tile that plays with light reflection. Available in a range of soft shades such as Iceberg, shown here, it is perfect for a feature panel or wall. Approximately £500 per square metre, available to order through bathroom suppliers from trade-only stockist Zenith Mosaic and Tiles. (0121 706 6456/www.zenithmosaicandtiles.com) 30 espc.com/premierliving
Fired Earth’s new Verbier slipper bath is the perfect contemporary interpretation of a classic slipper bath. The bath is made from a durable resin and limestone composite, which is a high-insulation material that will keep bath water hot for longer. The Verbier costs £3,000. (0131 220 2611 /www.firedearth.com)
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier motoring
Environmental considerations are just as important for cars as they are for houses – and there are now more premium models than ever to choose from
Have a look at hybrids A
nyone preparing to purchase a new property these days will study the building’s environmental credentials very carefully. Carbon-conscious motorists are increasingly doing the same as they study the luxury car market to identify the most eco-friendly models. The most popular environmentally friendly car is the hybrid car, which uses fuel part of the time and electricity part of the time. The Toyota Prius is probably the best known hybrid car on the market, but when it comes to buying a top-of-the-range luxury car, there are many options to consider. Luxury marque Lexus produces a range of hybrid vehicles. Its LS Series is, says the company, the world’s first luxury performance hybrid saloon, with the LS 600h the most powerful of these. It delivers rapid acceleration (0 – 62 mph in 6.3 seconds) with improved fuel economy and lower emissions. The top-of-the-range LS 600h L model is priced at around £100,030. Mercedes claims the S250 CDI Blue
take a drive with a difference
Classic car enthusiast Alex Stewart founded Caledonian Classics, based at Dollar in Clackmannanshire, in 2002. You can hire one of his classic cars – such as an E-Type Jag, MKII Jag, Austin Healey, Morgan (pictured), TR6, MGB or VW Camper Van – and enjoy a drive with a difference.
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Top: a vision of the future – BMW’s i3 and i8 cars. Above left: Jaguar’s fuel-efficient XF 2.2 diesel. Above right: the Mercedes S-Class provides a range of more environmentally friendly models
Efficiency is among the most environmentally friendly vehicles in its premium class. The 2143 cc engine is a 4-cylinder diesel unit featuring direct injection and turbocharging. Prices for S-Class models range from £60,005 to £163,630. Meanwhile, BMW has sunk €400 million Euros into the production of a hybrid and a pure electric model to be released under the BMW-i brand in 2013. The i3 electric car, as well as the i8 plug-in hybrid, will be targeted at the luxury market. Jaguar’s XF 2.2 diesel, which averages
52.3 mpg, is also one to consider. Edinburgh’s Luxury Car Village (based at Newbridge, near the junction of the M8 and the M9) is home to a range of agents for many of the world’s luxury marques, including BMW (0844 375 1669/ www.easternbmw.co.uk), MercedesBenz (0844 248 6144/www.mercedesbenzofedinburgh.co.uk) and Lexus (0844 815 2269/www.lexusedinburgh.co.uk). Edinburgh’s main Jaguar dealership, Stratstone Limited, is in Glasgow Road, Corstorphine (0131 316 0455/ www.stratstone.com).
Alex and his wife, Tanya, also run Kennels Cottage guesthouse, combining high quality accommodation and classic cars. The couple offer a popular two-day luxury package they call the “Mini Tour of Scotland”, that features an itinerary which takes in mountains, lochs, castles, open roads, picturesque coastline, historic villages and great food. For more information visit their website at www.caledonianclassics.co.uk
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier lifestyle
Beyond the border
Why not venture a little further afield for a gourmet gastro getaway? The Holbeck Ghyll Country House Hotel in the Lake District is within easy reach of Edinburgh and boasts an amazing location with views over Lake Windermere and the fells beyond. Most
importantly, it has a restaurant which has held a Michelin Star for the past 12 years. The food is mouth-wateringly imaginative and the oakpanelled dining room has views to die for. To top it all, Holbeck also has a luxurious spa offering lots of massages and holistic therapies. To find out more, visit www.holbeckghyll.com or call 01539 432 375.
Destination Fine dining in Perthshire, Skye or the Lake District – take your pick
ARRIVE IN STYLE Monachyle Mhor sits in a beautiful location at the top of Loch Voil in Perthshire and has a reputation for superb food. For a truly amazing dining experience, it can also be reached in real style – Loch Lomond Seaplanes runs a flight that touches down on the water just in front of the hotel (see www.lochlomondseaplanes.com). Surrounded by mountains, this 18thcentury farmhouse has been transformed into a boutique contemporary country hotel with 14 stylish rooms and a highly rated destination dining restaurant. The delicious menu consists of the very best of Scottish produce sourced either from their own farm and surrounding countryside, or named suppliers. A recent highlight on the menu was Perthshire spring lamb served with mustard celeriac remoulade, chantenay carrots and juniper jus. The hotel also runs a bakery, tearoom and fish and chip shop in nearby Callander – so food fans should have plenty of treats to try! To find out more, visit: http://mhor.net/ mhor/ or call 01877 384 622.
Get away from it all
The Three Chimneys perches on the shore of Loch Dunvegan at Colbost in the remote north-west corner of Skye and offers destination dining and accommodation of the highest standard. As well as the romantic location, the main reason people flock to this far-flung location is the outstanding food. The Three Chimneys has earned numerous accolades in the last three decades, including a coveted Gold award from EatScotland for 2010/11 as well as 3 AA red rosettes for food for 2010/11. The dishes are creative and modern, and they also often have a traditional Scottish twist. Seasonal and local ingredients are to the fore – with wild venison from the surrounding hills and fish and shellfish from the waters that surround Skye’s rocky shore. To find out more about The Three Chimneys, or to make a booking, visit www.threechimneys.co.uk or call 01470 511258. 34 espc.com/premierliving
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier food and drink
Planning a dinner party or special meal? jonathan trew has drawn up a shopping list of essential places where you can find the finest ingredients
Find fantastic food Best for bread
Falko Burkert’s Konditorei is perhaps the most in vogue bakery in the capital. A state qualified, German master pastry chef, Falko’s deft way with a dinkelbrot, or wholegrain spelt bread, is approaching legendary status. As well as exquisite cakes, he bakes a dozen different types of bread each week; check his online baking schedule to see what’s cooking on each specific weekday. As well as
his Bruntsfield outlet, he has a café in Gullane. For handmade baguettes, not to mention granary loaves and even seaweed bread, it’s hard to see beyond those sold at the Herbie delis in Stockbridge and the West End. At peak times of year, demand is such that they limit customers to four loaves each. (www.falko.co.uk – 0131 656 0763/Bruntsfield and 01620 843 168/Gullane; www.herbieofedinburgh. co.uk – 0131 332 9888/Stockbridge and 0131 226 6366/West End)
Knowledge b ase
Buyers and se llers can get expert advi ce on everything from to mortgages gardening in George St showESPC’s room
best for cheese Weekly deliveries of beautiful cheese from French artisan producers mean that the Henri of Edinburgh shops in both Stockbridge and Morningside are fab for fromage. From washed rind cow’s milk cheese such as Petit Langres to Mothais goat’s cheese, which is matured on a chestnut tree leaf, the Henri shops offer the best of La Belle France. They supply top Edinburgh restaurants such as Martin Wishart’s The Honours but mere mortals can order online and even arrange same day delivery. The Iain J Mellis shops in St Andrews and Edinburgh also offer an amazing array of cheeses. (www.henrisofedinburgh.co.uk and www.mellischeese.co.uk)
Best for coffee
From sourcing and roasting their own beans to regulating the size of the bubbles in the crema of the perfect espresso, the staff at Artisan Roast’s café on Broughton Street take every stage of coffee production as seriously as brain surgery. The house espresso blend is Jansoon, which mixes beans from Sumatra, Indonesia and Brazil, but they also sell a regularly changing roster of single estate beans and esoteric blends. Artisan has a café in Bruntsfield and on Gibson Street in Glasgow too. (www.artisanroast.co.uk)
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ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier news
anne everest on the benefits of independent schooling
Best for wine and spirits
For old school charm and a lifetime of wine knowledge worn lightly, Michael Romer, owner of Peter Green and Co in Marchmont, is a treasure. Villeneuve Wines on Broughton Street (pictured) is more funky but equally as passionate and well informed. The newest and possibly hippest hooch-slinger in town is the Bon Vivant Companion, found next door to the Bon Vivant Bar on Thistle Street. (www.petergreenwines. co.uk/0131 229 5925; www.villeneuvewines.com/0131 558 8441 (Edinburgh); www.bonvivantedinburgh.co.uk/0131 225 6055)
Best for meat
Carnivores are spoilt for choice in Edinburgh thanks to traditional, family-run butchers such as Crombies and, especially for game, George Bower. Both are happy to advise on cooking techniques and order in anything that they might not have in stock on the day. Slightly out of town, the farm shop at Hopetoun House offers game from the estate plus beef from their
own herds of Aberdeen Angus along with three breeds of sheep and poultry from their own farms. With 30 years’ experience under his butcher’s apron, Derek MacIntosh (pictured), the head butcher, can provide more unusual cuts if that Heston recipe demands something a little out of the ordinary. (www.georgebowerbutchers. co.uk/0131 332 3469; www.sausages. co.uk (Crombies)/0131 557 0111; www.hopetoun.co.uk/butchery. html/01506 830716)
When I talk to prospective students, especially the younger ones, I ask them how they will feel about there being no boys in St George’s (apart from some very little boys in the Nursery). The answers I receive range from “cool!” and “awesome!” to a look of bewilderment, which tells me all I need to know: it is not an issue, but rather an aspect of the school that most girls see as advantageous. I shall not rehearse the arguments in favour of single sex education here. For many, the debate is over and the motion carried: some girls probably do better in a single sex environment; some prefer to work in a coeducational context; some girls will do stunningly well wherever they study. It is a matter of preference and many parents prefer to invest in a single sex education for their daughters. One thing is sure: we do not have to spend time worrying about getting it right for the boys. We can focus on the girls alone. There are many spin-offs. Participation in sport across all fitness levels is impressively high at girls’ schools. Girls are more active in the playgrounds as well since, by definition, girls-only playgrounds cannot be dominated by a group of boys. Rather than stand back in practical lessons, girls have to get involved. They must carry out the
experiments in the sciences and design mechanical systems in engineering clubs; they must take the lead in whatever subject they study. If we have a football team, a girl will have to captain it – and the same goes for every leadership role and post of responsibility in the student body: a girl will have to fill it. When parents visit our school, our students give the guided tours. Primary 5 girls step up to the plate in the Junior School, and the most appropriate age group will be picked to give tours of Lower School; our sixth form girls take it in turns to offer tours in Upper School. Prospective parents remark on the girls’ obvious pride in St George’s; they also note their confidence and politeness. We are all proud of our school and of our girls. If you haven’t visited the school recently, the admissions office will be happy to set up a visit for you, and then you can see for yourselves, through our girls, what we are all about. Just don’t expect to see many boys here! Anne Everest is Head of St George’s School for Girls in Edinburgh
Do you have a question about independent education?
If so, e-mail Anne at enquiries@st-georges.edin.sch.uk.
espc.com/premierliving 37
Premier property
With signs of recovery predicted in the years ahead, the property market in Florida could be a very attractive opportunity for canny investors
Hot offers in Florida
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very cloud has a silver lining, say the pundits – and the global economic recession has thrown up a number of attractive property investment opportunities, particularly in the USA. With the market in mainland Europe and the Middle East now flat, and unlikely to recover for several years, speculators’ eyes are turning west to the sunshine state of Florida – the tourism magnet of the southern USA. Ian Russell is Managing Partner of Castle Investments, based in Dublin Street, Edinburgh. With 20 years’ experience to guide him, he believes that Florida offers good prospects for the canny investor. “America went into recession a couple of years before the rest of the world – and, in theory, it should recover earlier, too. “Some parts of the US, such as Detroit, still face huge economic problems, but others, like Florida, offer real advantages to the property investor. It has sunshine and a great holiday infrastructure that bring tourists flocking from across the world. And
where there are tourists there is a need for people to look after them.” The property Ian is talking about isn’t for renting to holidaymakers – but to the people who work in the service industries in places like Orlando, who are much more likely to look after it properly. He says that it is possible to purchase 4/5 bedroom villas anywhere from $200,000 to $600,000, which is about 30 per cent of 2006/2007 prices. Good quality, twobedroom condominiums in Florida, which used to sell for $240,000 each, are currently available at around $80,000. Rental yield is estimated at around 12 per cent a year. The villa market is much the same, with million dollar homes currently selling for $400,000. He said: “We are confident, if the property market in Florida recovers as we expect it to, that our investors will double their money in around five years.” Ian and his team have set their sights on around 20 established communities that have their own security, swimming pools and a strong residents association.
A large villa at Bay Hill, north of Lake Buena Vista in Orlando
A luxury apartment community Park Central, Orlando
The Registry is a Mediterranean-style community close to downtown Orlando
For more information visit www.castledin.com
Florida’s worldfamous Miami Beach
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ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier property
Spacious slice of luxury words richard croasdale
Drawing room
The deep bay window on the northern wall of the drawing room provides a stunning panoramic view across the quadrangle and on to the nearby summit of Arthur’s Seat. The beech trees which line the pristine, quiet roads strengthen the impression that one is sitting in a country estate.
photography rob mcdougall
A spectacular drawing room and an exclusive setting set this home apart
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et in private grounds, a stone’s throw from the city centre, Playfair House was built in the early 20th century to accommodate female students attending the University of Edinburgh, before being redeveloped into luxury apartments some six years ago. Still situated around the original immaculate quadrangular lawn, everything about the development exudes peace and exclusivity. Apartment 12/1 is situated on the ground floor at the eastern end of the attractive, threestorey stone building, designed in the Lorimer arts and crafts style. From a broad central hallway, it boasts two large main bedrooms, both with en-suite facilities and dressing rooms/ walk-in wardrobes. The décor is cool, modern and elegant. A third bedroom, currently used as an office and media room, faces north-west, with floor-to-ceiling windows opening out onto the front lawn. The kitchen is fitted and finished to the very highest standard, in terms of both features and materials. Integrated appliances are concealed within oak cabinets, topped with granite worktops and splashbacks.
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Moving through to the dining room, the true extent of the property becomes clear. This is a large, high-ceilinged room, with another large, bright, full height window. Even in such a generously proportioned room though, it is hard not to be drawn toward the broad, glazed double doors which lead through to this property’s most striking feature – its spectacular drawing room. Very large and exceptionally bright, this kind of jaw-dropping space is hard to find in modern homes, even conversions. Its natural focal point is the tasteful but eye-catching stone fireplace, topped with an ornate gilded mirror. The building and the wider development have a strong and active residents’ association. As well as ensuring the common areas of the buildings and grounds are kept in perfect condition, the association also contributes to the strong sense of community and neighbourliness, which is so evident.
{more information} At the time of going to print, this property was under offer. Call Pagan Osborne on 0131 253 2976 for more information.
ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier properties
edinburgh
5/6 St Vincent Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5BQ Offers around £680,000 A stunning first-floor flat located in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town. The flat is particularly spacious and is immaculately presented throughout with contemporary finishes and offering superb living accommodation. There is a lovely large bright sitting and dining room with triple windows to the front as well as a breakfast kitchen, with granite worktops and plentiful storage cupboards. The property benefits from three spacious double bedrooms. The generously proportioned master suite features a dressing area and a luxury en-suite complete with a Jacuzzi jet bath, separate shower cubicle and black slate tiling. The second double bedroom is also complimented with a luxurious en-suite bathroom. The property benefits from under floor heating throughout, double glazing and a secure designated underground parking space. The development has landscaped garden areas and monoblock pathways.
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Tel: 0131 247 1010 Agent: Morton Fraser LLP
51 Cluny Gardens, Edinburgh, EH10 6BL Offers over £975,000
15 Laverockdale Park, Edinburgh, EH13 0QE Fixed price £949,950
A substantial Victorian semi-detached family home in the heart of Morningside. Stunning south-facing bay windowed sitting room and drawing room, both with original cornices and friezes, along with seven double bedrooms, breakfasting kitchen and extensive gardens.
Unique and immaculately presented five-bedroom detached house set over three floors and featuring a one-bedroom self-contained flat. It is located in a secluded cul-de-sac in the Colinton district, lying to the south of Edinburgh city centre, with open views to the Pentland Hills.
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Tel: 0131 556 6644 Agent: Nairn WS 42 espc.com/premierliving
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Tel: 0131 253 2982 Agent: mov8 Real Estate
14 Mayfield Terrace, Edinburgh, EH9 1SA Offers over £885,000 A substantial and beautifully presented five-bedroom Georgian townhouse providing spacious and meticulously cared for accommodation with a wealth of period features plus impressive panoramic views.
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Tel: 0131 447 4747 Agent: Hunters Residential ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier properties
edinburgh
2c Kinellan Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6ES Price £875,000 Large contemporary townhouse in highly desirable locale. Fabulous design and specification, with two public rooms, four bedrooms, four bathrooms, plus private gardens and garage. x4
2 Greenhill Terrace, Edinburgh, EH10 4BS Fixed price £865,000
Well proportioned, double-fronted ground and garden flat of a handsome Georgian townhouse set in an enviably central location overlooking leafy Gayfield Square. Enviable period detailing within this elegant five-bedroom property with secluded rear garden, complete with pond.
Terraced villa over three floors close to local amenities. Bay window in sitting room, large fitted kitchen/ dining room/family room with AGA, utility room with access to garden, drawing room, seven bedrooms, family bathroom, two shower rooms and private walled garden.
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Tel: 0131 661 3414 Agent: G J Hunter Solicitors
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Tel: 0131 447 4747 Agent: Hunters Residential
This exceptionally stylish four-bedroom Georgian townhouse is situated in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town with off street parking and a sunny shared garden. The house offers a delightful combination of contemporary finishes together with fine period features. x4
A superb and beautifully presented detached house providing spacious and comfortable family accommodation set over two floors. Having been finished with quality fixtures and fittings and high specification appliances, it lends itself perfectly to modern family living.
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Tel: 0131 253 2976 Agent: Pagan Osborne Residential
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Tel: 0131 229 1212 Agent: Lindsays
6 Glenlockhart Bank, Edinburgh, EH14 1BL Offers around £850,000
10 Dundas Street, Edinburgh, EH3 6HZ Fixed price £865,000
Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick
26 Gayfield Square, Edinburgh, EH1 3PA Offers over £875,000
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5 Seton Place, Edinburgh, EH9 2JT Offers over £810,000 Enjoying a prestigious location this substantial semi-detached Victorian villa is built over three levels with a large walled garden to rear and garden to front. Great care has been taken to retain many of the period features expected in a property of this calibre. x4 Tel: 0131 225 4082 Agent: Sturrock, Armstrong & Thomson
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Premier properties
edinburgh
41 Craigmillar Park, Edinburgh, EH16 5PD Fixed price £795,000
Broomhills Farmhouse, 39 Frogston Road East, Edinburgh, EH17 8RT In the region of £800,000 Significant stone built, former farmhouse in approximately one acre commanding magnificent southerly views across rolling farmland to the Pentland Hills. Idyllic rural location approximately 15 minutes from the centre of the city and an easy commute to the airport and motorway network. x6
Exceptional detached four-bedroom house with large private garden and separate garage. Drawing room with bay window, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, bathroom with shower, master bedroom with bay window and en suite, plus three further double bedrooms, family bathroom. This home has been recently renovated – the property combines traditional period features such as ornate cornicing and original restored shutters with a high quality contemporary finish.
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Flat 2, 39 Barnton Avenue West, Edinburgh, EH4 6DF Fixed price £795,000 A superb luxury split-level ground floor flat, part of an exclusive development quietly located in the sought-after residential district of Barnton. The spacious accomodation includes three bedrooms, open-plan living room/dining room and kitchen as well as three private terraces.
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Tel: 0131 220 3336 Agent: MacMac Residential
Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick
Tel: 0131 556 2896 Agent: Urquharts Property
Straven Guest House, 3 Brunstane Road North, Edinburgh, EH15 2DL Fixed price £795,000
7 Middleby Street, Edinburgh, EH9 1TD Offers around £775,000
3 Redhall House Drive, Edinburgh, EH14 1JE Offers around £775,000
This stunning Georgian semi-detached villa built circa 1817 is B listed and is set within the prestigious Blacket conservation area. The property has many fine original features including Georgian panel doors, cornices, picture rails, dados and marble mantelpieces in the ground floor.
Stylish and most impressive modern detached villa over three levels in this exclusive and prestigious development. The spacious and versatile accommodation has been completed to a very high standard throughout and in good decorative order with gardens to front, side and rear.
Beautifully positioned traditional property, occupying an enviable setting in a quiet street only a stone’s throw from the promenade and beach. The elegant, well maintained and superbly proportioned accommodation is arranged over three floors and retains lovely period styles features. x 10
Tel: 0131 667 0232 Agent: Warners LLP 44 espc.com/premierliving
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Tel: 0131 446 6850 Agent: Jardine Phillips
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ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier properties
edinburgh
11a Ravelrig Gait, Edinburgh, EH14 7NH In region of £750,000 Stunning modern detached house complete with an eye-catching open-plan “Alno” kitchen/family room, five bedrooms (three en-suite) and a large garden. x5
2 Ravelrig Wynd, Edinburgh, EH14 7FB Offers over £725,000 Substantial south-facing detached villa with large mature garden, double garage and conservatory. Featuring five double bedrooms (two en-suite) as well as four public rooms this is a spacious, modern family home. x5
A rare opportunity has arisen to purchase two substantial pre-1828 Georgian semi detached villas set within a delightful walled garden situated in the highly desirable area of Morningside. There are a host of original features throughout including ornate cornicing, fireplaces and working shutters.
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Tel: 0131 777 7000 Agent: McGrigors
Tel: 0131 447 8182 Agent: Leslie & Co.
4 Barnton Brae, Edinburgh, EH4 6DG Fixed price £739,000
32 & 34 Canaan Lane, Edinburgh, EH10 4SU Offers over £750,000
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Located in a quiet cul-de-sac in one of Edinburgh’s premier residential neighbourhoods, this is a substantial five-bedroom detached bungalow situated within substantial garden grounds which extend to approximately 0.45 acres and includes spacious and flexible accommodation.
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Tel: 0131 473 7706 Agent: Campbell Smith WS
Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick
1 Burgess Terrace, Edinburgh, EH9 2BD Offers around £725,000
7 Polwarth Grove, Edinburgh, EH11 1LZ In the region of £725,000
A handsome detached Victorian villa situated in a prime residential area. This property benefits from many fine original features including s original fireplaces, wood panelling and fine cornices with private gardens to the front and rear.
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Tel: 0131 225 4356/4381 Agent: Cornillon Craig & Co
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Superb, six-bedroom mid terraced family home in the prestigious Merchiston area, which lies to the south of the city centre. This bright and spacious property offers flexible accommodation. Well maintained garden with raised patio area to the rear. x2
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Tel: 0131 225 1200 Agent: Murray Beith Murray WS espc.com/premierliving 45
Premier properties
11 Nile Grove, Edinburgh, EH10 4RE Offers over £700,000 Attractive, traditional stone-built terraced villa located in the sought-after heart of Morningside. The spacious and attractive property retains a wealth of features including sanded and sealed floors, original timber panelled doors, working window shutters, cornices and fireplaces.
edinburgh
9 Tantallon Place, Edinburgh, EH9 1NY Offers around £700,000
85 George Street, Edinburgh, EH2 Offers over thousands of homes
Traditional stone-built semi-detached Victorian villa in the heart of the Grange. The accommodation and fabric of the building now requires a complete overhaul and refurbishment but offers an excellent opportunity to create a lovely substantial family home.
Tel: 0131 247 1010 Agent: Morton Fraser LLP
This property itself is not for sale, but does have thousands of homes on display across Edinburgh and Lothians that are. As well as making it even easier to find your dream home, the showroom has an Ask The Experts service. You can talk to solicitors, financial advisers, architects, interior/exterior designers or ask one of the staff which areas might be best for you. The service is free and is designed to make moving home that little bit easier.
6 Murrayfield Road, Edinburgh, EH12 6EJ Offers around £700,000
20-22 Pilrig Street, Edinburgh, EH6 5AJ Offers around £700,000
1 Laverockbank Road, Edinburgh, EH5 3DG Fixed price £699,950
Substantial mid-terraced property which was originally two homes and was converted many years ago to form a substantial bed and breakfast. Offering excellent potential to become lovely family homes, they boast many period features and enjoy extensive West-facing gardens.
Extremely stylish semi-detached Georgian house retaining many fine period features with contemporary kitchen and bathrooms. It has an impressive vestibule with a flagstone floor and bright hall with attractive stone staircase and oval cupola above. There are also lovely garden grounds.
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Sunny, beautifully presented and generously proportioned traditional stone-built terraced villa which offers flexible family accommodation of considerable character in this popular and highly regarded area. The accommodation has been meticulously maintained and tastefully upgraded. x5
Tel: 0131 253 2964 Agent: VMH Solicitors Limited 46 espc.com/premierliving
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Tel: 0131 253 2976 Agent: Pagan Osborne Residential
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Tel: 0131 247 1010 Agent: Morton Fraser LLP
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Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier properties
edinburgh
71 Ravelston Dykes Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3NU Fixed price £699,000 A rarely available and idyllically located four/five bedroom townhouse peacefully nestled amongst manicured gardens in the grounds of the Ravelston House estate. Designed by the renowned Edinburgh architect Roland Wedgwood, the property provides a fabulous and secluded home. Includes lounge, family room/bedroom five, dining room, kitchen, study, utility, two WCs, en-suite-bathroom, integrated garage, covered courtyard, store and private garden
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23 Inverleith Place, Edinburgh, EH3 5QD Fixed price £695,000 An exceptional four-bedroom main-door flat occupying the ground and garden floors of a handsome Georgian terrace property. The flat offers stunning period features and well-proportioned accommodation together with direct access to a private south facing rear garden.
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Large detached bungalow set in approximately 0.6 acre of land situated in a quiet and idyllic rural setting. The extensive accommodation includes a well-proportioned lounge leading to a verandah, spacious kitchen and five bedrooms as well as large private gardens.
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Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick
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Tel: 0131 337 1800 Agent: Blair Cadell
SOLD
Tel: 0131 447 4747 Agent: Hunters Residential
Little Kellerstain, 8 Gogar Station Road, Edinburgh, EH12 9BS Fixed price £695,000
SOLD
MURRAYFIELD
38 Minto Street, Edinburgh, EH9 2BS Offers around £660,000
4 Hillpark Way, Edinburgh, EH4 7SS Offers around £680,000 Spacious detached family villa in sought-after location. Well maintained accommodation which includes a bright sittingroom with sunroom off, diningroom, kitchen/family room and four bedrooms. There are ample gardens to front and rear. x4
Tel: 0131 247 1010 Agent: Morton Fraser LLP
This is an imposing classical semi-detached villa with a self-contained flat within its basement. The property retains many period features and provides an extremely flexible layout which is ideal for families. There is a large high-walled and very sunny garden.
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Tel: 0131 253 2967 Agent: Drummond Miller LLP
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NEW TOWN
For the latest listings, visit www.espc.com espc.com/premierliving 47
Premier properties
SOLD
LOTHIANS
SOLD
NORTH BERWICK
Monkton House, Old Craighall, Musselburgh, EH21 8SF Offers over £995,000
The Lodge, Main Street, Gullane, EH31 2AS Fixed price £750,000
Superb, beautifully upgraded ‘A’-listed mansion dating from 1500 set in three beautifully landscaped acres. Many superb original features and a few contemporary surprises. Additional 17th century two-bedroom cottage with twin garages. Bounded by farmland to both sides and the rear.
A superb conversion and extension of a historically listed mansion house forming apartments of varying size, interest and distinction with exemplary finish and specification throughout. An ultimate penthouse apartment with stunning views over Goose Green and the Lammermuir Hills.
x7 Tel: 0131 225 4082 Agent: Sturrock, Armstrong & Thomson
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A stunning detached home set in extensive fully enclosed gardens and built in traditional style with a striking and contemporary interior offering flexible family accommodation. Set in exclusive hamlet amid wonderful scenery. x5
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For the latest listings, visit www.espc.com
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Enjoying an enviable location within a peaceful cul de sac, this is a generous beautiful detached villa offering generous accommodation arranged over two levels. The property backs onto Longniddry Golf Course and enjoys superb views over the River Forth and Fife.
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Tel: 0131 665 3131 Agent: Drummond Miller LLP
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Tel: 01620 892000 Agent: Simpson & Marwick
Kings Court House, King’s Road, Longniddry, EH32 0NN Offers over £749,000
Roseview, Leadburn, West Linton, EH46 7BE In the region of £750,000
Tel: 0131 220 3336 Agent: MacMac Residential
WEST END
Stenton Gallery, Main Street, East Lothian, EH42 1TE Fixed price £725,000 A quite exceptional stone-built house formed from a conversion of the former Stenton Gallery. It has been sympathetically re-designed and modernised with exceptional light thanks to its south-western aspects to the rear plus an outstanding gallery hall.
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Tel: 01620 892000 Agent: Simpson & Marwick ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland
Premier properties
FIFE, CENTRAL AND BORDERS
Redford House, Maddiston, Falkirk, FK2 0BT Offers over £925,000 Substantial Georgian stone-built detached villa ideally situated in its own formal gardens, with a range of outbuildings together with paddocks, arable land and wooded areas. It presents a rare opportunity to acquire a beautiful, private and secluded property which is still located with easy access to all of central Scotland. x4
The Manse, Innerleithen Road, Peebles, EH45 8BD In the region of £775,000
Exceptional traditional villa set within splendid garden grounds in a commanding elevated position enjoying superb views towards the hills and countryside. This ‘C’-listed property offers spacious accommodation and boasts a wealth of period features evident throughout.
The Manse is a substantial Grade B-listed three-storey detached house located close to the centre of the town. Although the property would benefit from general refurbishment and upgrading, it presents an opportunity to form a most desirable period family home.
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Tel: 01506 822727 Agent: Liddle & Anderson
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Tel: 01721 721515 Agent: Blackwood & Smith
A substantial Victorian House set in 1.2 acres of grounds with planning consent in principle for the erection of two dwelling houses within the grounds. The property will require some alteration to return to a private residence, but many of the traditional period features have been retained. x5
Handsome detached villa circa 1870, currently operating as a highly successful 4* Gold Guest House, but rare opportunity to acquire impressive large family home of character. Fine stone-built house offering spacious/flexible accommodation over three floors with Accommodation includes three public rooms, office, nine bedrooms, seven of which are en-suite, two bathrooms, garden and parking.
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Tel: 0131 200 1234 Agent: Balfour + Manson LLP
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Tel: 0131 225 5722 Agent: Church of Scotland Law Dept
The Spindrift, Pittenweem Road, Anstruther, KY10 3DT Offers around £585,000
Crook of Devon House, Main Street, Crook of Devon, Kinross, KY13 0UQ Offers over £600,000
Tel: 01577 862405 Agent: Andersons LLP
Ravenscraig, Frankscroft, Peebles, EH45 9DX Offers over £825,000
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Braeview, Bridgend, Ceres, Cupar, KY15 5LS Fixed price £565,000 Executive four-bedroom detached villa in private development. The property itself is welcoming and spacious. The main south-facing garden ground is to the rear and is laid to lawn, patio and paved areas with mature shrubs and plant borders. The garden is fully enclosed making it ideal for families with children and pets. x4 Tel: 01334 474200 Agent: Murray Donald Drummond Cook
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Premier people
My Edinburgh with jennifer cheyne
Scottish hairdressing legend Jennifer Cheyne has achieved a great deal in her illustrious career. She began cutting hair aged 14 and went on to open her first Cheynes salon in 1976, later expanding into a successful chain of Cheynes hairdressing salons and academies in Edinburgh and across the UK. She has styled the Duchess of York’s hair and renowned visionary hair stylist Vidal Sassoon has spoken of the great contribution Jennifer has made to the hairdressing profession over the years. In 2009, Jennifer was chosen to appear in Channel 4’s Secret Millionaire programme. Premier Living caught up with Jennifer to find out what she finds special about her beloved hometown.
{getting away from it} Most weekends, I head down to our cottage in Gullane, near North Berwick. I really love it down there as everyone is really friendly, you can go for long walks along the beach and visit one of the cosy coffee bars and eating places. There is something really beautiful about the east coast.
{shopping}
{HOME}
– it’s quite different for Edinburgh. There’s a relaxed feel to the place and the food is really lovely.
I live near Colinton in a very quiet hidden-away area surrounded by trees. It’s wonderful because you feel like you’re in the middle of the country, but you’re only ten minutes from the city centre. We built our house and we have a wonderful view from our living room of Edinburgh Castle, which is a fantastic feature when people come to visit.
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I’m a shoe fanatic so I love visiting the shoe department at Harvey Nichols – I’m addicted to shoes and they have such a fabulous collection. I always get something special there.
{special occasions}
{favorite spot}
{light lunch}
I enjoy going to The Dogs (right) restaurant on Hanover Street. David [Ramsden], the owner, is one of Edinburgh’s fantastic characters. I just love the ambience he gives to the place
service, they really stand out and the ambience and food is fantastic.
{DINNER}
If I want to go out for dinner somewhere nice, my favourite places at the moment are Ondine and The Honours in terms of
I drove up to the top of The Mound not long ago and looked down over Princes Street gardens and I just thought the city looked beautiful, especially if you were a tourist looking down on it – it’s really stunning.
If I am entertaining friends from out of town I like to take them for lunch to the Dome in George Street as they are always so impressed by it, as it is such a spectacular place to go for lunch or coffee. If it is a really special occasion to celebrate my first choice would be Rhubarb at Prestonfield House. It’s like a modern-day Downton Abbey.