ESPC Premier Living by Leanne Watson

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HOMES • INTERIORS • STYLE • EXPERT ADVICE • SHOPPING • LIVING

LUXURY PROPERTIES IN EAST CENTRAL SCOTLAND

SEPTEMBER 2010 £PRICELESS

SOPHISTICATED STYLE TIPS BEAUTIFUL BATHROOMS SLEEK KITCHENS

LEARN ALL ABOUT THE HOTTEST TRENDS

PAGE

Inspired interiors

FIND YOUR DREAM HOME DISCOVER FOUR OF OUR FINEST HOUSES

PREMIER PROPERTY SPECIAL INSIDE>>>

SIT BACK… AND ENJOY OUR FIRST ISSUE

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PREMIER CONTENTS

COLLECTION 06 A TOUCH OF LUXE From gorgeous wallpaper to stunning silver bowls, a selection of suitably stylish items for your home. 14 COLOURFUL COLLECTION FOR THE NEW SEASON With blue and its family of related shades the on-trend colour for autumn/winter, check out our array of musthave items.

14 KITCHENS 08 FEEL THE HEAT A seamless, sophisticated look is currently in vogue when it comes to kitting out kitchens. 10 A TASTE OF THE FUTURE Three key examples of the fashion for streamlined and integrated kitchens.

18 PROPERTY 18 THE ROLLS-ROYCE OF RURAL HOMES Take a look around a beautiful Borders home which was once a coach house. 25 FOR YOUR EYES ONLY If you love jaw-dropping views, then look no further than this home in Merchiston. 36 TRANQUIL AND HI-TECH HAVEN This West End home combines an impressive extension with lots of cutting-edge touches. 40 THE ART OF LUXURY LIVING Discover this fabulous art deco home in Ravelston.

BATHROOMS 30 SPECIAL SPACES Clean lines and structured curves are all the rage when it comes to designing beautiful bathrooms. 34 FABULOUS FLOORING Ceramic tiles, rubber, hardwood, bespoke ﬂoor murals... there is no shortage of stylish options when it comes to ﬂooring.

38 LIVING 38 OUT AND ABOUT Wondering where the best new restaurant in town is? Or looking for some pampering or perhaps a painting? Check out our hot list of hand-picked recommendations.

STYLE 12 MOODY BLUES A guide to the hot colour trends for the season, plus interior design tips from John Lewis advisor Toby Durant.

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 residential streets in Edinburgh. It is also available from the ESPC showroom on George Street.

09 Premier Living is written, designed and published by Connect Communications (Scotland) Ltd on behalf of ESPC. www.connectcommunications.co.uk

EDITORIAL AND DESIGN Editor: Neil Harrison Design and production: James Cargill, Renny Hutchison, Jim Byers, Paul McGinnity

MAIN OFFICE ESPC, 90a George Street, Edinburgh EH2 3DF T: 0131 624 8000

ADVERTISING ESPC Media Sales: Claire Boulton, Michelle Harvey, Moyra Vivian Tel: 0131 624 8000 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

Welcome Welcome to the launch issue of ESPC’s Premier Living magazine. As someone who has bought and sold more than 20 times, I am very much at home with the opportunities, challenges, headaches and moments of delight that home ownership brings. Every point on the journey up the property ladder has brought its own memories and stories. One thing that does change as you move up the ladder is the potential to really make your home the place you want it to be. The one-bedroom starter ﬂat is always going to present a challenge as there is only so much you can do. However, as you move into the realms of premier property, the size of the

‘It is a celebration of really fantastic properties, design, gadgets and furniture’ property starts to give you more avenues to change, move, add, be quirky and make a true home out of the collection of bricks, cement, wood and tiles. This is what Premier Living is about. It is a celebration of really fantastic properties, design advice, gadgets, furniture and anything else that makes people think “I would love to live there” or “put the ESPC paper away, we have found our dream home”. That said, and here is the sales bit, Premier Living is also a statement on the market-leading presence ESPC solicitor estate agents have in the premier property market. When the day comes that you wish to buy or sell a premier home, make sure that you put the many strengths of ESPC to work for you. Enjoy, and look out for issue two in March. Malcolm Cannon, chief executive, ESPC

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PREMIER PROPERTY NEWS

ESPC PREMIER MARKET REPORT

The price rises seen in the average house price in Edinburgh during the ﬁrst half of 2010 were driven to a great extent by the premier market. Comparing the ﬁrst seven months of 2009 with the same period in 2010, ESPC has seen an increase of more than 85 per cent in the number of premier properties selling. The graph pictured above looks at monthly sales volumes from Jan 2009 to July 2010. While prices for and volumes of one and two-bedroom properties selling have remained relatively unchanged, the growth in prices has been a product of larger properties counting for a greater percentage of houses selling. There are a number of reasons

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for the pick-up in the premier market. The key to its out performance of other market segments is linked to mortgages. Saving up the 10 per cent deposit and making sure they have a clean credit history is limiting those at the lower end of the property ladder. However, as homeowners move up the market, issues around mortgage availability become less important as they have equity in their current property or assets elsewhere to fund the purchase. Secondly, our feedback from

buyers and sellers has been that, for the last couple of years, they have sought to stay away from the property market until ‘things settled down’. This has resulted in pent-up demand that we are gradually seeing coming back as lifestage factors make a change of property more important or the stability in prices that has been sought is now in evidence. Thirdly, as a city that is regularly voted the best place in the UK to live, Edinburgh continues to be a draw for

“As a city that is regularly voted the best place in the UK to live, Edinburgh continues to be a draw for people looking to relocate”

people looking to relocate. And as a certain TV-programme reminds us, location continues to be the key influencer in the choice of property. The premier market in Edinburgh has benefited during 2010 from these factors. But, over the longer term, the health of all areas of the property market are linked to each other. If those at the start of the property ladder are not able to move, eventually these factors influence across the whole market. If you are looking for a prediction for the property market, it would be one of continued improvement at a slower pace. Which is probably not a bad thing as buying and selling property should not be done in an unplanned rush.

ESPC: No. 1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER PROPERTY NEWS

OFF OR ON-MARKET SALES An area of debate in the premier market (in particular among non-solicitor estate agents) is whether to advertise your house for sale (an on-market sale) or rely on contacts and those in the know to get the message out that you are looking for a buyer (off-market sale). There are reasons for going down the off-market

route such as the need for privacy. However, if you are looking to get the best price for your property, generating interest and creating a competitive bidding situation continues to be a must. This is why ESPC solicitor estate agents will recommend an on-market sale to the vast majority of clients.

TRINITY CRAMOND

BARNTON

INVERLEITH BLACKHALL NEW TOWN RAVELSTON

ESPC – AN EXCLUSIVE CLUB ESPC only markets properties for solicitor estate agents. There are two easy ways to check if you are speaking to an ESPC solicitor estate agent. Firstly, check the listings at the back of The ESPC Paper or use ‘ﬁnd a solicitor’ on espc.com Alternatively, check to see if the agent has the ESPC logo on their for sale boards, on their schedules or on their website. If you do not see our logo, this may mean they cannot offer you the ESPC marketing option. Make sure you have all your options open – use an ESPC solicitor estate agent.

DEAN

MURRAYFIELD CORSTORPHINE

BRUNTSFIELD SCIENNES PRESTONFIELD MERCHISTON

MORNINGSIDE GREENBANK

THE GRANGE LIBERTON CLUNY THE BRAIDS

BUCKSTONE COMISTON

‘HOT’ AREAS OF THE CITY Through analysis of the data held by ESPC, we have been able to identify the ‘hotter’ (in regard to volume of sales) areas of the premier market over the last 10 years. The postcode areas covered in the map above are the parts of Edinburgh (red being the ‘hottest’ areas) where the volume of sales for premier homes has been consistently high, demonstrating the demand to live in these parts of the city.

THE PREMIER CHARTER We are committed to making life simpler for house sellers and buyers. This was the ethos behind the creation of ESPC and it continues today. This is where the Premier Charter comes in. The Charter is a standard that ESPC solicitor estate agents who market premier properties have signed up to. It ensures that whichever of our solicitors you use to sell your home, you will get a great service as standard. The Charter covers best practice before your house goes on the market, promoting the property and dealing with potential buyers. If you want more detail on the Charter, visit www.espc.com/premiercharter

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PREMIER COLLECTION

Luxe A touch of

WESTWOOD WALLPAPER The Vivienne Westwood collection for Cole & Son wallpapers is all based on signature designs from her fashion collections and includes Tartan (pictured) and Cut-Out Lace from the ‘I am Expensiv’ collection. Prices start from £55 a roll. (020 7376 4631/www.cole-and-son.com)

British craftsman/decorator William Morris was right when he said: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful” BASK IN BEAUTY OF BOWLS The Adam bowls are a range of small, medium and large “tumble bowls” with rounded bases from Hamilton & Inches (H&I). In solid Sterling silver, they are hand raised and hammered in H&I’s own silvermiths. Small £520, medium £1,125, large £2,100. (0131 225 4898/ www.hamiltonandinches.com)

INSTANT COFFEE FOR THE 21ST CENTURY Coffee lovers who like to kickstart their day with the short, sharp burst of an espresso will love the sleek new built-in appliance from Gaggenau. The 45cm unit is a fully automatic bean-to-cup appliance that is a treat for the eye and the palate. Available from Craighead & Woolf, £1,800. (0131 221 0777/www.craighead-woolf.com)

ICONIC LIGHT Mercury, from Artemide, is an iconic ceiling ﬁxture and sculptural object that places a ﬂoating assembly of large pebbles that bounce light between their surfaces below a simple modern aluminium disc. From designerlights.com, it costs £1,433. (0131 557 9120/www.designer-lights.com)

ESPC GOES MOBILE If the house-moving urge gets you while you are out and about, ESPC can help. We now have a new mobile-friendly site that is a slimmed-down version of the PC site. Next time you are out for a walk and you see your dream house is for sale

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FINE DINING IN YOUR OWN HOME This striking cerise damask-print acrylic dining table and set of matching chairs is one of many distinctive bright and bold products from Edinburgh-based designer Jan Milne. Her range also includes equally stylish cushions, stools and jewellery. Table £860, set of 4 chairs £450. (0131 557 0636/www.janmilne.co.uk)

(with the lovely ESPC logo on the for sale board), you can now get more detail on your mobile phone. You can search by street, area, town or postcode to access more detail and the full schedule. Go to www.espc.com and you will be greeted with a very simple search tool to look for the property.

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PREMIER SECTION NAME

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PREMIER KITCHENS

Kitchens are the new living rooms and a seamless, style is in vogue, writes BEVERLEY BROWN

Feel the heat BACK TO BASICS Bulthaup’s b1 range is a minimalist handle-less kitchen that features clever design detailing and puts the emphasis on essentials. Prices start at £15,000. (Cameron Interiors, 0141 334 9532 or, from 16 September, 0131 556 2233/www.cameroninteriors.co.uk)

BESPOKE WOOD Chosen for luxury residences worldwide, Clive Christian’s furniture is made to order using the ﬁnest woods. Shown is the Alpha kitchen in Yew Antique Lustre, which features a state-of-the-art mirror television. (0131 557 2529/www.clive.com)

Kitchens were once merely a spartan workplace shut off from the living area, but a shift in lifestyle demands in recent years has put them right at the heart of the action in the home. Modern new-build houses offer openplan dining kitchens or larger combined kitchen/dining/family areas as standard, while many older properties have been reworked to open up space and create one large area for cooking and socialising. The response from kitchen furniture manufacturers, coupled with advances in technology, has taken this a step further with the current trend for streamlined handle-less furniture and high-tech integrated appliances. The result is a seamless, sophisticated look that blurs traditional boundaries and fully integrates kitchen and living areas. Like trompe l’oeil, the latest kitchen furniture designs have uninterrupted door fronts that deceive the eye and give no clues as to what lies within.

Cluttered worktops are a thing of the past – boiling water at the turn of a tap dispenses with the need for a kettle and island units replace dining tables. When it comes to choosing materials and colours, choice has never been greater. Wood has a timeless appeal but other materials, such as high-gloss lacquer and specialist veneers, offer a luxurious look and myriad colour and texture combinations. “The kitchen will continue to incorporate more of our living space requirements in the future with, for example, hidden media technology and workspaces behind sliding door systems and more sophisticated food storage and cooking appliances,” says Kirsten Robeson, a director of Edinburgh’s Cameron Interiors. Kitchens of this calibre are a major investment but the payback, in terms of pleasure and added value to your home, is priceless.

OPEN-PLAN LIVING Leicht’s Largo FG kitchen perfectly illustrates how well a kitchen can be integrated into a living area. Available from Kitchens International in Edinburgh, prices start from £12,000. (0131 337 3434/www.kitchensinternational.co.uk) 8 ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER KITCHENS

SMOOTH AND SLEEK – THE ON-TREND SOLUTION

Design

IDEA!

Combine subtle earthy colours with sleek modern units for an on-trend look.

Porcelanosa’s kitchen ranges include the G980, a design that features unit and drawer fronts and countertops in textured, matt-finish olive glass combined with aluminium profiles and steel skirting – a mix of materials that gives a unique look. The fitted high units, integrated electrical appliances and large central island are an on-trend solution for integrating kitchen and living areas. Prices from £50,000. (0131 335 3883/www.porcelanosa.com)

Taste of the future

On page 8, we looked at the hot trends in kitchen design – here we pick three examples which reﬂect the key aspects of the fashion for streamlined and integrated cooking and living spaces HOT STUFF

BRIGHT IDEAS

Kiss goodbye to the kettle. The easier option is to have 100°C boiling water instantly on tap. Using only the amount you need each time is also ecofriendly and less expensive – and the Quooker boiling water tap is Teﬂon-insulated, making it cool to touch and child-proof. Available in a choice of ﬁnishes from kitchen suppliers, from £790. (0844 414 4066/ www.quooker.co.uk)

Grace is one of several styles in the Elica collection of hightech cooker hoods that deceive the eye – in this instance in the form of a wall light bright enough to read by. It costs about £1,800 but, with the move towards open-plan living, the need for a cooker hood to whisk away steam and smells has never been stronger. Contact DR Cooker Hoods for stockists. (01252 351111/www.elica.co.uk)

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ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER STYLE

Blue is set to make an impact on interiors in the coming seasons, with deeper shades taking the lead, says BEVERLEY BROWN

Moodyblues With neutral colour palettes dominating interiors for so long, it’s refreshing to see the return of colour. But, surprisingly, the hottest colour for the coming autumn/winter season is one more commonly thought of as cool – blue. In a fashion sense, blue is the new black and, as fashion and interior trends are inextricably linked, blue – and, in particular, darker shades, such as indigo blue – are making an impact on everything from wallpaper and textiles to furniture and accessories. Grey is the main secondary colour, with stone and urban concrete tones emerging as the new neutrals. Key accent colours are mauve through to purple, greens and orange. The result is a conﬁdent, sophisticated look. Nature is an ongoing inspiration with colours reﬂecting earth’s minerals and elements. One of the oldest cultivated dye colours is indigo, which prior to chemical processing came from the West

Indian plant, indigofera anil. Blue has positive connotations that provide plenty of reasons to be cheerful, from happy holidays with hazy blue skies, to the deep inky-blue darkness of a crisp winter’s night. Historically, blue was believed to ward off evil spirits, which could be another good reason to incorporate it into a colour scheme! The range of blues is almost inﬁnite, spanning the spectrum from the very palest almost offwhite grey-blue to the most intense cobalt and cerulean shades associated with the Mediterranean and Middle East. Blue also co-ordinates brilliantly with other colours; blue and white are one of the most tried and tested combinations in the history of interior design, from Chinese blue and white porcelain, traditional French toile de Jouy, Dutch Delft and Wedgwood, to Spode, Bristol Blue glass, blue denim, Cornish ware, and countless others.

Dulux is using blue as a main paint colour for autumn/winter. Shown here, the back wall is Sapphire Springs 2 contrasted with Mercury Showers 4

Q&A WITH TOBY DURANT, HOME DESIGN ADVISOR FOR JOHN LEWIS EDINBURGH {QUESTION}

HOW CAN I CHANGE MY LIVING ROOM FROM DRAB TO DRAMATIC WITHOUT GOING OVER-THE-TOP? Try a little vintage movie magic and work with contrasts rather than colours. Shades of grey are all too often underused and I’m pleased to see them making a comeback. Teamed with subtle mushroom and putty tones, it is simple to create a stunning setting into which you can easily add

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stronger accents in black and silver along with small hints of more muted colours – lilacs and purples work particularly well. Mixing textures and ﬁnishes adds real depth while remaining quite subtle. Think about using gloss and lacquered ﬁnishes for picture frames and candlesticks to make a stunning statement against a muted matte backdrop. Cushions in silk or polished cotton add shimmer and shine to a simple, plain sofa. Chrome and glass is a

classic combination for occasional furniture along with velvet upholstery and faux fur throws for true Hollywood luxury. For that ﬁnishing touch, throw up a classic movie billboard – adding a little monochromatic magic to your living space couldn’t be easier. Right: Andrew Martin snakeskin candle, cream, £10-£14; pear ornament, £12; John Lewis antique glass lampbase, £70; John Lewis made-to-order oval knife pleat shade, chocolate, £70-£95. Above: Hollywood cushion, £49. All from John Lewis.

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER COLLECTION

A selection of beautiful items which celebrate this season’s on-trend colour, BLUE...

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS Blooming Bless – a set of three, blue-tinted glass vases designed by Benjamin Graindorge. Available from Ligne Roset, the set of three costs £307. (0131 555 0100/www.ligne-rosetedinburgh.co.uk)

READ ALL ABOUT IT... THE GREAT GATSBY The classic Gatsby armchair has been updated with the option of bespoke upholstery – in this instance, Harlequin Azara 1264, a beautiful fresh-looking blue and white fabric. Available from John Lewis, the bespoke Gatsby armchair costs £1,200. (0845 604 9049/www.johnlewis.com)

DECORATIVE DELIGHTS FROM DAMASCUS Turkey was not the only country producing beautiful tiles in the 17th century; Syria also had its own style and these beautiful blue tiles are inspired by designs seen in Damascus. Each tile measures 10.4mm x 10.4mm and they can be arranged together or separately to make highly decorative panels. From Tiles by Textiles, £8.50 each. (01949 842515/www.tilesbytextiles.com)

SMALL SOFA, BIG IMPACT

STYLISH STORAGE WITH A SPLASH OF COLOUR On the basis that you can never have too much storage, these Danish-made wooden Minna side tables in grey and blue/purple have a shelf and drawer – they would look at home in the bedroom, hall or living room. From Plumo, each table costs £239. (0844 557 3590/www.plumo.com) 14 ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING

The Julep bench sofa is part of a range of vintage-inspired pieces with slim, curved ﬂoat-buttoned backs. The range includes two chairs (73cm or 80cm high) and the sofa, all of which are designed for areas of the home where space is restricted. The Julep range can be upholstered in any Designers Guild fabric or in soft Italian leather available in more than 40 colours. The sofa costs £995. Edinburgh stockists include Jeffreys Interiors. (0131 247 8010 /www.jeffreys-interiors.co.uk)

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER LIVING SECTION NAME

Life’s a

beach

“East Lothian offers genuine rural outdoor living ideal for families, but with all the beneﬁts of being within easy commuting distance of Edinburgh.”

WORDS: TIM POWER

Mark Coulter, residential managing director, Lindsays

The beautiful countryside around Edinburgh is home to idyllic rural villages and lots of luxurious properties Peace, solitude, fantastic landscapes and golf are among the many attractions of rural living… but there are many more beneﬁts. You’ll get a lot more space and land for your money in rural areas such as Fife, the Borders and East Lothian compared with city dwelling. Rural life is also ideal for people who “want to get back to the land” – enjoying growing their own produce, keeping livestock or simply being able to enjoy outdoor pursuits. Even if you haven’t got green ﬁngers, there are plenty of farm shops and highly rated restaurants to enjoy, such as Fife’s famous Peat Inn or Chez Roux in East Lothian’s stunning Greywalls Hotel.

Or, if pampering is your thing, you can relax in style at the recently refurbished Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa in North Berwick. And there’s a host of seasonal events, from horse racing at Musselburgh to festivals in Fife, to help you feel part of the community. Neil Fyall, a property adviser at Pagan Osbourne, said: “Fife is a great place to live. There are a number of quaint, traditional and unique properties on offer to suit all walks of life. “There are are also plenty of local amenities in the towns and villages, and many areas are within commuting distance of either Edinburgh or Dundee.”

GROWING MARKET

PROPERTIES AND PRICES

CONSIDER EAST LOTHIAN...

... OR HOW ABOUT FIFE?

Unlike some other parts of the property market, the luxury end of the rural market has held up well over the past year. ESPC business analyst David Marshall believes that now’s a good time to start house hunting. He said: “We’ve started to see more properties coming onto the market recently as conﬁdence among sellers has improved. The market has now swung back in favour of buyers, so there’s more opportunity to look for relative bargains out there.”

The range of rural properties such as converted farmhouses, steadings and even castles is enormous – as are the unique features such as sea or countryside views or the proximity to a world-class golf course. Luxury four and ﬁvebedroom family houses in the premium areas of East Lothian and Fife typically start in the £400,00-500,000 region.

North Berwick, Dunbar, Aberlady and Gullane in East Lothian are popular prime coastal towns and there are some real gems inland too such as Gifford, Dirleton, East Saltoun, Eskbank and around Haddington.

While St Andrews provides a great selection of luxury properties around the £900,000 mark with easy access to fantastic beaches and the famous golf courses, there are other areas to consider. Part of the charm of Fife is its pretty ﬁshing villages along the East Neuk such as Crail, Anstruther, Pittenweem and Elie.

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ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER PROPERTY

A former garage in the grounds of a castle is now a beautiful family home WORDS: BRIAN HENSON PHOTOGRAPHY: NEALE SMITH

The RollsRoyce of rural homes O nce upon a time, it was home to philanthropist Sir William Burrell’s gleaming Rolls-Royce. But now the Coach House at Hutton Castle, in the Scottish Borders, has been restored and extended into a large family home of an exceptionally high standard. With three public rooms, ﬁve double bedrooms and three hand-crafted bathrooms, owners Alan and Karen Thomas have created a substantial property of great charm and character. The L-shaped house is built of random stone under a slate roof. The lintels and window surrounds are of locally quarried Hutton stone, and the building is surrounded by approximately 1.3 acres of mature gardens. The gardens are screened by mature trees, and the predominant sounds to be heard are birdsong and the gentle murmur of the nearby River Whiteadder. On the third side of the enclosed courtyard is a former stable block with garaging for three or four cars, as well as stabling for horsepower of another sort entirely. The main entrance to the house is tucked into the corner

of the building, and opens into what was the original coachman’s cottage, linking the old and the new parts of the building via a wide hallway. A bathroom and study share this space. Immediately to the right is the original kitchen, which is now used as a laundry and overflow cooking area, and a wooden staircase leads to another double bedroom. Ahead is the impressive splitlevel lounge with high ceiling, which is currently home to the owner’s grand piano, as well as a substantial wood-burning stove. A feature staircase leads from the lounge to the upper storey, where the master bedroom features original wooden beams on the ceiling and is served by a beautifully fitted and furnished family bathroom. To the left of the main entrance is the utility room and main kitchen. The dining kitchen, which includes a wooden staircase leading up to a light and airy playroom, is a joy to behold. Large and spacious, with fully fitted storage cupboards, central island workspaces and an electric Aga cooker, it deserves to be on every cook’s wish list.

{MORE INFORMATION} Viewing is by appointment. Please telephone Anderson Strathern on 0131 270 7777. Visit www.espc.com/huttoncastlecoachhouse 18 ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING

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PREMIER PROPERTY

Each of the spacious bathrooms has been assembled to the present owner’s exacting requirements by a local craftsman. The elegant wall panels were hand built and ﬁtted, and the furniture and ﬁttings in all of the bathrooms are of the same top quality.

WARM WELCOME GUARANTEED Hutton Castle Coach House utilises one of the oldest – and arguably best – insulation materials known to man. Sheep’s wool lines the walls beneath the plaster ﬁnish on the walls. As on the animals from whence it came, wool is a superb insulator, and keeps the house perfectly warm and dry at all times (with the help of the Aga cooker) – even in the deepest, darkest and coldest days of winter.

Adjacent to the kitchen is a huge dining room with flagstoned floor. A living area at one end is heated by a wood-burning stove while Hutton stone again features in the impressive fireplace that surrounds the stove to form a distinctive focal point in this space.

OR YOU MIGHT LIKE...

LOVELY LOCATION AND LIFESTYLE Hutton Castle Coach House occupies a secluded rural setting overlooking the River Whiteadder (a tributary of the Tweed). Just seven miles from the town of Duns and eight from Berwick-upon-Tweed, it is an ideal commuting distance from Edinburgh and Newcastle (around 45 minutes by train either way from Berwick). The surrounding countryside is spectacular with many opportunities for equestrian sports, as well as game shooting, ﬁshing and walking. The beautiful sandy beaches of southeast Scotland and Northumberland are easily accessible and other local recreational facilities include golf, tennis and swimming.

5 Charles Way South, Limekilns, Dunfermline KY11 3JW Unique contemporary dwellinghouse in prominent south-facing location in picturesque conservation village of Limekilns with an unrestricted panoramic outlook across the River Forth. The extended accommodation of two reception rooms and two bedrooms is of stunning quality and full of innovative design features at the cutting edge of elegance and style. For more details, contact Ross & Connel on 01383 721156 Visit www.espc.com/charleswaysouth

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PREMIER HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Sounds

cool BEVERLEY BROWN looks at the latest must-have high-tech home entertainment gadgets and gizmos ulti-room music systems that let you listen to Beethoven in the bathroom and The Beatles in the bedroom are now high on the must-have list. These systems, which usually have speakers discreetly built into walls or ceilings and individual volume controls in each area, provide superb quality sound for music accessed from

the internet or a computer drive. Systems can be operated either by a hand-held control or an application on an iPhone or iPad. 3D television is on the rise too – yet while there’s no denying they are great for gaming or for a home cinema set-up when you are in the dark anyway, do we really want to watch Eastenders in broad daylight wearing strange-looking glasses? Time will tell... But what is big news in television is home cinema

WATCH OUT FOR systems with the ability to link a PC or Mac into a plasma screen or projector and audio into a surround sound system thereby enabling you to stream live off the internet and watch on-demand streams like BBC iPlayer. When broadband speeds are increased, this will kick programme schedulers into touch and enable television and ﬁlms to be watched on demand.

• A boom in iPads which will eventually be able to control your music, cinema system, lights, volume and, quite possibly, your life. • Crystal-clear digitally streamed music, which historically has been underwhelming in terms of quality. Scottish manufacturer Linn has a range of products that offer high-quality sound for music stored on a computer and for internet radio.

NICK MORROW from audio-visual experts James-Morrow picks three essential items SAMSUNG ELITE 3D TELEVISIONS It’s been talked about for years but 3D is ﬁnally here. Imagine enjoying everything from sports events to video games in stunning, high deﬁnition 3D. Samsung is very much at the forefront of this exciting new technology and offers a range of different screen sizes. Being LED, the screens are wafer thin and produce stunning pictures for standard broadcast TV. However, don the futuristic glasses and prepared to be transported, quite literally, into another dimension!

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BOSE V SERIES HOME CINEMA SYSTEMS If the thought of a home cinema system excites you, but you’re put off by complicated and unsightly speakers, the new V Series Lifestyle Systems from Bose are what you’ve been waiting for. With the unique ‘Unify’ Intelligent Integration System, getting lost in a lengthy and boring owner’s manual is a thing of the past. One remote allows you to take command of all of your components and the sound quality has to be heard to be believed. All from speakers which can ﬁt in the palm of your hand.

SONOS MULTI-ROOM AUDIO SYSTEMS Ever wanted music to be freely available all over your home, but without the wiring and the fuss? A Sonos multi-room system is the way to do it. Simple to install and very easy to operate, you can easily access radio, your own music collection and even internet music services such as Napster and Last FM. Listen to any music in any room and control it with a stylish touch-screen controller or even an iPhone. The possibilities are inﬁnite.

The items displayed can be found at James-Morrow, 1 Home Street, Edinburgh 0131 229 8777 www.james-morrow.com

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You may not know it, but the next chair you buy was probably conceived in Milan….

Say ciao to stylish seating WORDS: BEVERLEY BROWN

Started in 1961, the Milan Furniture Fair is now the largest international trade fair in the world, an annual extravaganza that rocks the city and plays a major role in its economy and identity as the style capital of Europe, if not the world. This year’s event was a tad more subdued than previous years in

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response to the global recession, with notably less homage paid to the gods of excess and extravagance. Recycling was a key theme, epitomised by the launch of Emeco’s amazing 111 Navy Chair, a re-invented product made from 111 recycled plastic Coca-Cola bottles per chair, plus 66 years of Emeco knowhow as the company that launched the original utilitarian aluminium Navy Chair in 1944 for the US Navy. It is estimated that this latest joint venture with the Coca-Cola Company will use more than three million plastic bottles annually in chair production. Other gems included the oh-so tactile Ruche sofa by Inge Sempre for Ligne Roset, storage boxes printed with ecological motifs shown by London-based Established & Sons, and an amazing armchair by Front for Moroso with wooden bead upholstery reminiscent of the type of car seat covers from way back when. What was very much evident at Milan this year was a return to more

natural colours, softer textures and lots of natural wood, the latter increasingly a feature in chair designs, such as Bess and Bessy from German designers e15 and the Laclasica chair from Stua. Affordability is an ongoing issue and many manufacturers have focused on developing existing products and/or using new materials to control costs and offer a less expensive option.

THREE TO SEEK OUT...

FOR LOUNGE LIZARDS The Jehs and Laub Lounge Chair by Knoll is a strikingly simple design that provides stylish comfort and support. An optional ottoman and articulating back turn the chair into an efficient chaise longue and the collection is available in a choice of bases. Lounge chair in Ultrasuede fabric costs £2,220; ottoman, costs £1,160. From Tojo Design. (07753 858586/www.tojodesign.com)

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Great designers of our time... SUMPTUOUS SOFA So gorgeous looking you want to fall into it, the Ruche sofa by Inge Sempre is upholstered in a Harald velour fabric. Other colours, fabrics (including leather) and sizes are available and there is a matching footstool to complete the look. The sofa shown costs £3,365. (0131 555 0100/www.ligne-roset-edinburgh.co.uk)

SOLID INVESTMENT T.U. by Phillipe Nigro is a dining table with adjustable folding steel bases in red, white or black lacquer that attach to the top with clamps. Table tops come in black, white or walnut in two sizes – or buy the legs and use a recycled wooden door, toughened glass or anything else that ﬁts the bill as a top. Prices start at £1,682 from Ligne Roset. (0131 555 0100/www.ligne-roset-edinburgh.co.uk)

Julian Darwell-Stone introduces a designer who is making her mark on contemporary design, and the interiors and furniture that surround us. PATRICIA URQUIOLA Patricia Urquiola was born in Spain but has been based in Italy for more than 20 years. She trained originally as an architect, but has quickly moved on to make her name as one of the leading furniture designers in the world.. Urquiola’s career ﬂourished with designs for some of Italy’s leading manufacturers. B&B Italia has produced the Fat-Fat sofa system (as seen in the Missoni Hotel on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile) and outdoor furniture ranges such as

Canasta (pictured). Her designs display an organic, often ﬂuid form and a sense of the sensuous: straight lines are scarce. Urquiola has worked across a wide spectrum of products and environments. Her Caboche light for Foscarini has become a modern classic. Other projects include bathroom ﬁttings, china cups and most recently the interior of the new Mandarin Oriental hotel in Barcelona. This breadth of projects, notable individual designs and awards are putting Patricia Urquiola at the forefront of contemporary design. She already has pieces featured in the permanent collection of MOMA in New York and is well on her way to becoming recognised as one of the great designers of our time. Julian Darwell-Stone is the Managing Director of Tangram, leading experts in contemporary furniture and interiors. Visit www.tangramfurnishers.co.uk

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PREMIER PROPERTY

Beautiful bay windows and jaw-dropping views from your very own tower make this a truly unique property

For your eyes

only WORDS: GARY ATKINSON PHOTOGRAPHY: NEALE SMITH

{OVERVIEW} THE PROPERTY Features: Five bedrooms – one with an en-suite bathroom, two additional bathrooms, drawing room, study, kitchen dining room, tower room.

THE DETAILS Address: 78 Spylaw Road, Edinburgh Type: three-ﬂoor converted ﬂat Contact: Murray Beith Murray 0131 225 1200 Visit www.espc.com/78spylawroad

THE LOCATION Based in Merchiston, the property isn’t far from the buzz of Morningside or Bruntsﬁeld which are just a ten-minute walk away, or the West End, a 30-minute walk away.

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l 5

ooking out over 360° vistas across Edinburgh, 78 Spylaw Road arguably boasts some of the best views in the city. Why? Apart from the vast bay windows framing unobstructed views, this three-level apartment has its own tower – with roof parapet. It is from here that you look out across to the Castle and Blackford Hill. It’s a sight that has also been enjoyed by pupils and students stretching back through the generations. First constructed as a vast private residence, the building later became an all-girls school, which then formed part of Napier University, before being converted into four separate residences. Walking into the apartment through a large hall, and sweeping up a curved staircase, you are bathed in light that streams from a large frosted window, highlighting elaborate original cornicing above – a recurring feature throughout the home. It was this experience that helped current owners Ann Graham and Laurie Dempster first fall in love with the property four years ago. And that was even when the conversion work was in full swing. “We could see the potential instantly, and it has not disappointed us,” Ann said. “What I like most is the mix of original period features in what is a modern property – we even have rooms wired for sound with in-built ceiling speakers and cleverly thought-out spotlighting.” On the second level, you’ll find the drawing room (once the old school’s art room) connected to a hidden study, a large dining kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom. This level feels like a generous home on its own, but walk through a door and you’re heading upwards for more surprises on the next level. There is a bathroom with three more bedrooms, one of which is connected to the tower that has its own bright room with magnificent views. Up another staircase and through a doorway, and you’re on the roof, with an awesome sight of the city stretching out before you, and hills rising up in the near distance. You will also have a chance to survey the two-and-a-half acres that the residents of this building and four cottages below share. The property may be based within walking distance of the city centre, but with these views, it may be hard to drag yourself away.

{OVERVIEW}

PLAN VIEW

{MORE INFORMATION} Visit www.espc.com/78spylawroad

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GARDENS With two-and-a-half acres, there’s no danger that the residents of the four apartments in the main house and the cottages will crowd each other getting some exercise on the lawns or when sitting under a tree with a book.

The three ﬂoors provide more than 3,300 sq. feet of living space

WOW FACTOR As period cornicing goes, the property must have some of the most elaborate. It has all been retained since the Victorian villa was originally built. During the conversion into apartments four years ago, it was all renovated to an exceptionally high standard.

TOWER POWER The tower not only has impressive views from the roof – below is a room perfect for getting away from it all; a calm, bright and relaxing space, which “is perfect for reading the papers on a Sunday or just sitting back and taking in the views,” Ann Graham said.

OR YOU MIGHT LIKE... 4c Barnton Avenue West, Barnton, Edinburgh EH4 6DE A stunning, detached contemporary home extending to 4106 sq ft, set among immaculate landscaped grounds, fronting on to Royal Burgess golf course. The property manages to combine the cuttingedge modern architectural design with the feeling of luxury and practicality desired in a family home. The property has four public rooms, study, luxury kitchen, ﬁve double bedrooms, two en-suite shower rooms, a family bathroom, roof terrace and gardens. www.espc.com/barntonavenuewest Contact HBJ Gateley Wareing 0131 228 2400

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Today’s living rooms are all about pattern, detail and an eclectic look, writes BEVERLEY BROWN

Goodbye minimalism he autumn/winter season is all about a move away from the minimalist ‘less-ismore’ approach to one that says ‘more is more’. Layers of pattern – including complex dot designs, embroidery and patchwork – detailed surface ﬁnishes, natural materials used in unexpected ways, and contemporary geometrical takes on animal prints, tribal and ethnic designs, all deﬁne the look. Intricate mosaics reminiscent of the East (Istanbul is this year’s European City of Culture) come off the wall and on to furniture surfaces, tableware and textiles – the latter also notable for ‘resist’ patterns created by ikat and tiedye techniques that produce striking surface patterns. Ikat is top of the resist patterns. Originating in South-East Asia, it is a style of weaving that applies a resist dyeing process to cotton, linen and silk threads before they are woven to create a pattern or design.

BRONZE AGE The bronze Giacometti Leaf Table Lamp is an iconic piece, a timeless classic that merges form and function to make a dramatic statement. Cast in bronze on a slate bed and ﬁtted with an oval black silk shade, it’s also extremely heavy and stands 920mm high. From Occa-Home, it costs £795. (0844 879 4258/ www.occa-home.co.uk)

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Arguably the best ikat textiles are those from US-based Bermingham Fabrics, whose jewel-like colours and traditional patterns are the real McCoy. The trend for tie-dye fabrics reminiscent of the Sixties’ era provides an opportunity to while away long dark winter nights with friends and have fun making tiedyed cushions from old fabric, which ﬁts well with the current recycling ethos. Also prevalent is wood – particularly recycled wood, according to Jeff Laing at Jeffreys Interiors in Edinburgh. “And furniture with curves instead of straight edges,” he adds. “Metal lives on, however – nickel and white shiny metals are being superseded by warmer bronze tones and industrial looking, almost rusty, details on furniture and accessories.” One of Lothians’ most experienced interior designers, Jan Boggon of Forth Interiors, has a succinct view of how we will be living. “There’s a move to eclecticism, where anything goes and people are not afraid to be different,” she says. “And that includes mixing the old with the new. Reclaim and restyle old but wellmade furniture from the past and have fun doing it. “Fashion and decorating are inextricably linked and both are about creating your own style and talking points.”

REFLECT IN ITS GLORY Smooth and shapely, the Void pendant light designed by Tom Dixon comes in a choice of brass, copper and stainless steel – all made using metal-forming techniques to create a double wall and polished to a mirror ﬁnish that is lacquered to make it permanent. From Tangram Furnishers, the Void costs £250. (0131 556 6551/www.tangram furnishers.co.uk)

IRRESISTIBLE IKAT These cushions, for Bermingham & Co in New York, are part of a range of hand-made accessories featuring luxurious silk fabrics and traditional ikat resist-dyed threads. Available exclusively in the UK from Brunschwig & Fils. The cushions come in a selection of colours and patterns, from £300 each. (020 7351 5797/www.brunschwig.com)

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PREMIER STYLE BOX CLEVER Bocksey is a new range of cabinets that offers a variety of storage/display conﬁgurations including a red, drop-front door that serves as a desk. Different textures and solid blocks of colour give Bocksey a distinctive look reminiscent of Mondrian art. From Habitat, prices start from £599. (0844 499 1111/www.habitat.net)

MELLOW YELLOW Add a splash of sunshine yellow to brighten up your life with an armchair that makes a statement and is also supremely comfortable. Aptly named, Mr Bright has luxurious gold leaf upholstery and a multi-coloured buttoned back detail. From John Lewis, it costs £899. (0845 604 9049/www.johnlewis.com)

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Bathroom bliss The smallest room can also be the most luxurious. BEVERLEY BROWN dips her toe into the latest trends

You don’t have to be that old (well, maybe a bit old) to remember a time when bathrooms were chilly Spartan places where you did what had to be done and beat a hasty retreat. Anyone caught lingering longer than absolutely necessary was viewed with suspicion. Nowadays, lingering is mandatory. Design and technology have conspired to transform the smallest room into a place of comfort and relaxation. And small bathrooms are no longer the poor relation when it comes to design, with space-saving ranges to suit every shape and size. That said, many homeowners are choosing to sacriﬁce a single bedroom or borrow space from an adjoining room to enlarge an existing bathroom, while those fortunate enough to have a large bedroom are opting to add a free-standing bath into the setting to replicate the hotel bedroom experience. Clean lines and structured curves deﬁne the look

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for 2010, as does increasing space, incorporating colour, and being environmentally aware as to the importance of reducing water consumption where possible. The latter has given designers much food for thought, with some surprising results, such as Roca’s quirky W+W combined WC and washbasin unit. White remains the favourite for its sheer simplicity, but colour is widely available, from safe neutral shades and natural materials such as wood, stone and metal, all the way through to dramatic dark blues and black, the latter setting a trend in its own right with many bathroom manufacturers. One notable trend is a newfound enthusiasm for bidets. “We have been ﬁtting a lot of bidets lately, whereas before we were removing them,” says Robyn Dilworth, a designer for Boscolo Bathrooms in Edinburgh. “Also in demand are system baths, tiled wet ﬂoor areas as opposed to shower trays, coloured glass tiles and larger-format natural stone tiles.”

THE ONE AND ONLY Laufen’s designer Alessi One collection, created by Stefano Giovannoni, includes The One, a bath that is so simple in form yet comes in a variety of options that incorporate sophisticated technology, from air and hydro massage, to hydro heating and underwater lighting. Available as freestanding, ﬁtted or back-to-wall versions. Prices start at £4,337 (01530 510007/ www.laufen.co.uk). Edinburgh stockists include Boscolo Bathrooms. (0131 662 8222/ www.boscolobathrooms.co.uk)

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PREMIER BATHROOMS PERFECT PEACE AND PRIVACY If you are looking for ﬁne furniture for your bathroom windows (or any other room in the house), then The Scottish Shutter Company should be on your radar. This family-run business specialises in custom-made timber shutters and in coming up with beautiful, creative solutions to the most challenging of window dilemmas, as well as the more familiar designs. (0845 602 4154/www.scottishshutters.co.uk)

FIRE UP YOUR IMAGINATION Fired Earth’s Andalucia wall tiles (Hacienda design, £2.75 each) create a stunning backdrop to the sculptural simplicity and purity of the Jura bath, which retails at £2,995. Glacier 03 floor mounted bath and shower spout, £815; Terrano porcelain floor tiles in Linen (40 x 40 cm) are £59.70/square metre. Fired Earth offers a tile installation service and a bathroom design service that includes a home visit and showroom presentation. (0845 366 0400/www.firedearth.com)

HOT STUFF IN THE BATHROOM Hot Box from MHS Radiators is an inspirational radiator system that combines modular versatility and heating efficiency with super-stylish looks. The compact design allows any number of horizontal, vertical or diagonal permutations. A Hot Shelf is also available separately. Each box measures H350mm x W500mm x D300mm and costs £1,420. (01268 546700/www.mhsradiators.com)

LUXURIATE WHILE YOU SHOWER

TAKE A PEEK AT TEAK For something completely different, luxury bathroom supplier CP Hart has launched a striking collection of wooden baths and basins, including the Boxart Virtu bath shown. Available in either teak or Canadian cedar wood – treated only with vegetable oils – these woods are naturally immune to bacteria and fungi and are also highly water resistant. Bath prices start at £24,428. CP Hart products are available in Edinburgh from Boscolo Bathrooms. (0131 662 8222/ www.boscolobathrooms.co.uk)

Designa Nexus from Showerlux UK is a new contemporary shower range comprising 10mm-thick glass panels that allow endless wet-room and walkin shower combinations owing to its innovative chrome bracket system that gives the appearance of ﬂoating glass. A non-stick invisible barrier makes it easier for water, soap and lime deposits to run off the glass. Prices range from £469-£919 per glass panel. Showerlux offers a bespoke service that includes a survey of the bathroom’s space. Edinburgh stockists include Boscolo Bathrooms. (02476 639400/www.showerlux.co.uk)

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Design

IDEA!

Choose tiles in black and grey shades to create a luxurious look.

BEAUTY MEETS PRACTICALITY Italian engineered hardwood flooring from Listone Giordano, like the Plank 190 range of French Oak treated with a Naturplus finish, ticks all the boxes for aesthetics and practicality, making it perfectly at home in damp or wet environments such as bathrooms and kitchens. Exclusive to Millers Specialist Floorcoverings, the Plank 190 range costs £139.80 per square metre. (0131 554 2408/millersflooring.com)

ICE COOL! Amtico is available in a huge range of options. Shown here is a contemporary Polar Glass Arctic in a 305mmx 305mm tile costing £80/ square metre. Edinburgh stockists include Millers Specialist Floorcoverings. (0131 554 2409 or www.amtico.com)

MARVEL AT MARBLE LOOKALIKE Porcelanosa’s Carrara Blanco Brillo porcelain ﬂoor tiles have the look of genuine Italian Carrara marble, but at £72/square metre, they are an equally luxurious but far less expensive choice. Shown here are Marmol Carrara Blanco wall tiles, £54/square metre, while the mosaic-effect tiles in the shower area are ceramic Firenze Negro Marquina at £39/square metre. (0131 335 3883/www.porcelanosa.com)

From functional to funky, BEVERLEY BROWN looks at bathroom ﬂooring

What’s new underfoot? When it comes to stylish bathroom flooring, there is an abundance of options to consider. There are, of course, various practical considerations to bear in mind at first – bathroom floors need to be hygienic, easy to clean and, ideally, slip resistant where elderly people and children are regular users. And they need to be impervious to water. But beyond these factors, there are many beautiful materials to consider. Ceramic and porcelain tiles come in an endless variety of shapes, sizes and colours, often with co-ordinated wall ranges. They 34 ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING

are also durable, low maintenance and, thanks to modern under-floor heating, warm underfoot (with the added advantage of drying towels left lying on the floor). Other natural materials include rubber, linoleum (best known as the brand Marmoleum), cork, coconut shell, cinnamon bark and wood, albeit not all woods are suitable for wet locations. Marmoleum offers a bespoke design service, giving unlimited potential to create unique floors. Man-made floorcoverings such as Amtico and Karndean have the same durability as

ceramic and porcelain and an equally extensive choice of colours and designs, but are naturally warmer underfoot. Like Marmoleum, they offer infinite design possibilities in the hands of an artistic fitter. David Millard, managing director of Millers Specialist Floorcoverings in Edinburgh, says: “Increasingly, customers are coming to us with requests for bespoke floor murals, the most extreme being for a children’s bathroom that incorporated an elaborate underwater scene complete with great white shark and sunken shipwreck!” ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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OR YOU MIGHT LIKE...

17/7 Wyvern Park, off Dick Place Grange Edinburgh EH9 2JY A truly spectacular luxurious penthouse off Dick Place in the heart of the Grange. Stunning south-facing views, double garage, private lift, three public rooms, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a panoramic 40ft roof terrace. The property has been modernised with no expense spared and has designer Lutron lighting throughout as well as beautiful, contemporary recessed radiators, wood ďŹ&#x201A;oors and a sophisticated security system. www.espc.com/wyvernplace Contact HBJ Gateley Wareing 0131 228 2400

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PREMIER PROPERTY HOME CONTROL SYSTEM Want to stick on some music from your iPod and pipe it to any room in the house? You can do that and more. A touchscreen controller as well as wall-recessed touchscreen panels throughout the house will allow you to do that. In fact, you can also control DVD players, the Sky box or have a look to see who is at the front door via a video entry system.

EXTENSION Steel and glass has brought the light and colour of the outdoors into the living space of the kitchen. Open the glass doors and you’ll ﬁnd yourself swept on to decking for outside dining or the lawn for lounging. This secluded space traps the sun throughout the day.

A striking extension and lots of cutting-edge touches combine with period features to create a great example of stylish modern living, writes GARY ATKINSON

Tranquil and hi-tech haven PHOTOGRAPHY: NEALE SMITH

hey say the kitchen is the heart of the home and, in the case of 43 Coates Gardens, it’s easy to see why – you would certainly want to spend a lot of time there. The first impressions as you walk in are of light and space, thanks to an extension formed with steel and glass, turning a functional room into one also suited for family living. Wall-to-wall windows embrace the verdant green of the garden, while three concertina glass doors lead to decking for alfresco dining or barbecuing, blurring the boundaries between indoors and out. Either lounging under the roof or the open sky, you would be forgiven for forgetting that this sheltered little oasis is right in the heart of Edinburgh’s West End. The bright extension is one of the more popular areas of the house for current owners Euan and Clare Marshall and their two-year-old daughter Amelia. But then it’s a close call with the rest of the property, Euan admitted. After all, it was renovated just two years ago by his own contracting company, which specialises in exactly this type of work – conversions to make homes that are perfectly suited to modern living. In this case, a basement and ground floor flat has been restructured into a one large reconfigured home. Upstairs,

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

there is a large living room, still with original period features such as intricate cornicing and functioning wood-panelled shutters for the vast bay windows. These are “perfect for closing over during winter when you have the ﬁreplace glowing with heat,” Euan says. Then there is the bright and airy

{OVERVIEW} THE PROPERTY Living room, four bedrooms, utility room, extended kitchen/living area, garden and zoned resident’s parking

THE DETAILS Address: 43 Coates Gardens, Edinburgh EH12 5LF Contact: Simpson & Marwick 0131 525 8600

main bedroom with en-suite bathroom complete with a glass enclosed wet area and crisp gleaming tiles. Passing a small tiled bathroom, stairs take you down to the kitchen as well as three other large bedrooms, a utility room and a family bathroom. Modern touches are everywhere. For example, recessed LED lights illuminate the French engineered oak ﬂooring and wet areas in bathrooms. Speakers built into the ceilings are activated by numerous touchscreen panels, which also control the central heating, as well as entertainment systems. To access the entertainment – and shopping – of the surrounding area there are also two entryways, at the basement and upstairs through the main front door, common hallway and secure entry door. It’s a reminder of the little, and big, extras you get with reconﬁguring a property into one generous space for living.

Visit: www.espc.com/43coatesgardens

THE LOCATION The property is located in the West End, yards from leafy Magdala Crescent and the area’s communal Eglinton and Glencairn Gardens. Despite being in a very quiet area of the city, it’s just minutes away from Haymarket Terrace and a short walk into the city centre.

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JONATHAN TREW has trawled Edinburgh to unearth its ﬁnest shops, salons and plenty more...

CASTLE TERRACE

Premier

IDEA!

A new venture from the same stable as Leith’s Michelin-starred Kitchin restaurant, Castle Terrace has Dominic Jack leading the culinary charge. Jack has worked at some of France’s ﬁnest eateries and is focusing on locally sourced, seasonal dishes. 33/35 Castle Terrace. 0131 229 1222/www.castleterracerestaurant.com

Coffee aficionados should try Café Citron in the ESPC showroom.

ART ADVICE Whether you are simply looking for something cheerful for the kitchen or keen to start your own art collection, the Sarah Dallas gallery in Stockbridge can help. It specialises in contemporary Scottish art by recent graduates and established artists. Paintings, ceramics and small-scale sculptures form the backbone of the works. The current exhibition is of Sally-Ann Johns’ exquisite bird portraits (pictured). 63 Raeburn Place. Tel 0131 332 2484/ www.sarahdallas.co.uk

A CUT ABOVE

LINGERIE LONGINGS Working on the basis that it’s better to be looked over than overlooked, Miss Dixiebelle is a retro-style boutique that has got the curtains twitching in Bruntsfield. Vintage-inspired lingerie, corsets, hosiery and dresses are all available for anyone who wants to unleash their inner Dita Von Teese. Owner Emma Dixon has an interior design background and it shows in her new shop’s glamorous yet feminine looks which, perhaps for the first time in the area’s respectable history, has put the burlesque in Bruntsfield. 19 Bruntsfield Place. 0131 629 7783/www. missdixiebelle.co.uk

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Top ﬂight… A recently opened bar and restaurant in Eskmills, The Birdcage is a handsome mix of old and new. The neo-classical cupola in the bar vies for the attention with a glass-walled dining room, while the fountains in the courtyard are also hard to ignore, especially when lit up at night. Featuring a perky cocktail list and a food menu that runs from seared beef carpaccio to West Coast oysters, The Birdcage is worth tweeting about. Station Road, Eskmills, Musselburgh. 0131 273 5240/www.birdcageeskmills.com

Harvey Nichols has a new hair and beauty salon, run by Cassandra Shand, who has already glammed many a hairstyle at her two existing branches of Cascal. Her latest venture provides every type of cutting and colouring as well as a beauty room. Cascal, Harvey Nichols, St Andrews Square. 0131 524 8358

GET INTO THE SPIRIT Made in a 200-year-old Scottish copper pot still, Edinburgh Gin is a premium spirit which aims to replicate some of the flavours of the gin made in Leith in the 18th century. It has a big, punchy juniper flavour along with hints of pine and heather. Find it in classic bars such as Whighams as well as Stockbridge’s stylish new Raconteur. www.spencerfield spirit.com

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How do you choose which independent school is best for your child? HELEN MACKIE has the answer…

EXPERT

HUNGRY TO LEARN? Set in a ﬁve-ﬂoor townhouse, the Edinburgh New Town Cookery School caters for people at all levels of culinary know-how. From one-day cookery workshops to six-month diploma courses aimed at those planning a career in the kitchen, the hands-on teaching covers everything from boiling an egg to mastering Mornay sauce. Useful and fun dinner party courses run through the year. The big, serious diploma course starts at the end of September. 7 Queen Street. 0131 226 4314/www.entcs.co.uk

POP IN FOR SOME PAMPERING If you’ve strolled down George Street recently and wondered what is causing the delish aroma, then ponder no more. Arran Aromatics has opened shop on the city’s most fantoosh shopping street and its range of naturally produced foams, lotions and fragranced candles has nostrils quivering with pleasure. Pamper yourself with something from their new Fresh Fig range, which was inspired by the Gulf Stream that laps Arran’s shores. 46a George St. 0131 220 1012/www.arranaromatics.com

ONE-STOP CLINIC

Neither a beauty salon nor a traditional cosmetic clinic, Lux in Stockbridge is a new type of service which takes a holistic approach to inch loss and body contouring. Using the Lux Lipo Laser Process, the Lux Clinic aims to help those who would like to cast a little less of a shadow. Add in the attraction of their non-surgical facelift and it is easy to see why Lux is becoming a one-stop shop for a spot of rejuvenation. 58 St Stephen St. 0131 629 7655/ www.luxclinics.com

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

Masterclass WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW… As Edinburgh offers a number of choices and is within easy commuting distance by bus or train from Fife and the Lothians and Borders, choosing the right independent school can seem like a daunting prospect. However, the best school for your child is going to be the one that you feel meets his/her individual needs. Look at the websites of the various schools; think about the ethos they promote and also consider choice and flexibility in examination courses offered in sixth form. Is there a range of courses and qualifications offered at different levels? Do the students achieve their first choice of university or college place and is there a range of destinations? Check out what the fees cover – often the extra ‘hidden’ charges such as textbooks and stationery add on a great deal to the basic fee. Are clubs and activities charged for or are they free? Is there a uniform exchange service where you can sell on good quality uniform items? Initial primary education in the independent sector often means smaller classes and more individual attention. Specialist teaching often begins at the primary stage and particular talents, as well as any learning difficulties, can be identified

and supported. At St George’s in Edinburgh, the focus is very much on the individual, with small classes and many opportunities to promote intellectual development as well as personal and social skills. Students are educated in an international context and there is no glass ceiling for our young women of independent mind. The examination results are consistently outstanding, with more than 96 per cent of the girls going onto their ﬁrst choice of university. Girls and boys do learn in different ways, as research has proven, so it is surprising that there are so few opportunities for single sex education in Edinburgh. Helen Mackie is former Head of St George’s School for Girls

DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT INDEPENDENT EDUCATION? If so, send an e-mail to advice@st-georges.edin.sch.uk We will deal with all enquiries as quickly as possible, but regret we cannot enter into personal correspondence.

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PREMIER PROPERTY f you are looking for a spacious family home which is full of character and provides easy access into and out of Edinburgh, then make a detour to 67 Ravelston Dykes. This five-bedroom house is a classic 1930s property that has been totally renovated to encompass the best in luxury and modern living, but with a sensitivity that also celebrates its art deco past. It has many original features and even its custom-built kitchen is finished in bird’s eye maple, a veneer favoured by cabinet makers in the 1920s. Such is the quality of the work that you would be surprised to find out that the spacious master bedroom, which also boasts its own private balcony overlooking the garden, is a recent addition. The house boasts superb space and light, particularly in the large living room that gives you a real feel of its elegant past. Light is also a feature of the family room where French doors open onto the deck of a south-facing garden. While the property was originally built on the sixth tee of the now relocated Murrayfield golf course, the garden today presents a very much lower maintenance proposition with attractive mature shrubs and trees. These border the property giving privacy, and security is enhanced by a remote-controlled front gate.

{OVERVIEW} THE PROPERTY Features: reception hall, lounge, dining room, sun room, kitchen, utility room, master bedroom with en-suite wet room and balcony, four double bedrooms, bathroom, double garage and garden.

THE DETAILS Address: 67 Ravelston Dykes, Ravelston, Edinburgh EH12 6HD Contact Shield & Kyd, 0131 228 2381 Visit: www.espc.com/67ravelstondykes

THE LOCATION Ravelston Dykes is perfectly located: there is easy access to the M8, M9 and Edinburgh airport (15-30 minutes by car) and the centre of town (20-minutes walk). Murrayﬁeld Stadium, golf courses and other sports clubs are on your doorstep and you are within easy commute of some of the best public schools in Edinburgh.

40 ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING

Classic art deco features combine well with modern style

Enjoy the art of luxury living WORDS: TIM POWER PHOTOGRAPHY: NEALE SMITH

FAMILY ROOM FUN The sun room, which is also known as the family room, is the most popular room in the house – not just for its sunny aspect and access to the garden, but because it hides a surround sound system which turns the room into a virtual cinema – with the operating system hidden away under the stairwell.

OR YOU MIGHT LIKE...

4 Hillpark Way Edinburgh, EH4 7SS Spacious detached family villa in sought after location, set within a good sized garden. The house fronts onto Queensferry Road but is accessed from Hillpark Way. The accommodation has been well maintained and includes sitting room with sun room off, dining room, kitchen/dining/family room, master bedroom with en suite, two further double bedrooms, single bedroom and family bathroom. www.espc.com/4hillparkway Contact Morton Fraser 0131 247 1010

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

96 Inverleith Place, Edinburgh EH3 5PA Price on application An imposing and rarely available, substantial detached home in one of Edinburgh’s leaﬁest and most prestigious addresses, presented in excellent order throughout. The property is arranged over three levels and retains a wealth of beautiful period features. The house sits within mature gardens with ample parking and a double garage, and the upper ﬂoors offer spectacular views over the famous Edinburgh skyline. x8 Tel: 0131 346 4646 Agent: Grange Solicitors & Estate Agents

MILLION-POUND ROW

2/11 Eyre Place, New Town Edinburgh EH3 5EP Offers around £1,400,000 A spectacular, duplex penthouse apartment ﬁnished to the very highest standard, set atop a stunning Applecross development in the New Town. Two public rooms, large kitchen/dining room, utility room, three double bedrooms, fourth bedroom/study, two en suite bathrooms, further bathroom, guest WC, three roof terraces, shared garden and two underground parking spaces.

11 & 12a Queens Gardens, St Andrews KY16 9TA Offers over £1,330,000 This beautifully refurbished handsome townhouse and adjoining elegant double upper apartment are located in one of the most sought-after conservation areas of St Andrews. Although currently arranged as a thriving superior guest house and owner’s accommodation, the properties can be easily converted back into two completely separate properties.

Tel: 0131 228 2400 Agent: HBJ Gateley Wareing

Tel: 01334 474200 Agent: Murray Donald Drummond Cook

LD SO

4-BED DETACHED HOUSE The Grange LD SO

6-BED SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE Morningside

6 Barnshot Road, Edinburgh EH13 0DH Offers Over £1,200,000 A substantial late Victorian detached house providing bright and elegantly proportioned accommodation set within mature and beautifully maintained private gardens of circa 0.6 acres. The property was built in 1897 and retains a number of original period features. x5

Tel: 0131 445 3208 Agent: Mary R McQueen & Co

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19 Chester Street, Edinburgh EH3 7RF Fixed price £1,195,000

LD SO

Handsome Georgian townhouse in heart of the West End. Beautifully renovated and arranged over four ﬂoors with living space of typically grand proportions and immaculate period features.

Tel: 0131 226 7464 Agent: Boyd Property

3-BED PENTHOUSE FLAT Inverleith ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

MILLION-POUND ROW

38 Findhorn Place, Grange, Edinburgh EH9 2JP Fixed price £1,150,000

45 Lauder Road, Edinburgh EH9 1UE Offers over £1,100,000

38 Campbell Road, Murrayﬁeld, Edinburgh EH12 6DT Offers around £1,100,000

An imposing modernised Georgian-style detached villa opposite Dick Place. Vestibule, reception hall, three public rooms, four bedrooms, kitchen, study, bathroom, shower room, superb well stocked gardens, garage and off-street parking. Planning permission to extend.

Located within one of Edinburgh’s most prestigious residential areas, this ﬁne stone-built Victorian semi-detached family home offers spacious and versatile accommodation over four ﬂoors with off-street parking and a large secluded garden within stone boundary walls.

A stunning and substantial detached, extended and totally refurbished property with three public rooms, ﬁve bedrooms, four bathrooms across 3,774 sq ft. Exquisite kitchen, large terrace, secluded garden, garage, drive and exceptional view of Edinburgh Castle.

Tel: 0131 228 2400 Agent: HBJ Gateley Wareing

Tel: 0131 556 2896 Agent: Urquharts

Tel: 0131 228 2400 Agent: HBJ Gateley Wareing

LD SO

6-BED TERRACED HOUSE New Town LD SO

1 Ravelston Park, Edinburgh EH4 3DX Offers over £1,100,000

12 Brights Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 2DD Offers around £1,100,000

This is a rare opportunity to purchase an elegant and unique Victorian villa at a prestigious address. Built in 1865, this substantial property commands an enviable corner location on the south side of Ravelston Park. With a striking exterior of canted bays, barge-boards and warm sand-coloured stone, it retains numerous original features. Upgraded by the present owners, this superb, spacious property has been a much-loved family home for more than 20 years.

A handsome stonebuilt semi-detached Victorian villa in pristine condition providing generously proportioned accommodation over four ﬂoors. Large sunny walled garden to the rear and large driveway to the front with space for three cars; single garage. The property is located within a prestigious and sought-after residential district. x9

Tel: 0131 316 4666 Agent: DMD Law

Tel: 0131 656 2000 Agent: Tods Murray

6-BED SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE Morningside LD SO

4-BED SEMI-DETACHED HOUSE The Grange ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING 43

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

Stunning executive detached villa set within exclusive gated development on outskirts of Edinburgh. The property is situated within a prominent plot and has been built on a grand scale with around 6,500sq ft of ﬂoor space within the main house. Set within approx acre of land.

x 10

Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

18 Ewerland, Cramond, Edinburgh EH4 6DH Offers around £875,000

An exceptional, spacious and ﬂexible ﬁvebedroom Georgian townhouse redeveloped by Sundial Properties in 2003. Located in the hugely sought-after area of Edinburgh’s New Town.

Tel: 01786 450555 Agent: Mailers

18 Claremont Crescent, Edinburgh EH7 4HX Offers over £875,000

Exclusive Playfair Georgian Town House Hotel accommodation over four ﬂoors. Refurbished to high standard with a wealth of period features.

This superb property forms part of the “B”-listed terrace of townhouses which are part of Mayﬁeld Gardens. The house retains most of the original period features. All have been carefully renovated and brought back to their original glory following a full renovation of the property. The house provides excellent family accommodation over four ﬂoors.

Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

17 Windsor Street, New Town Edinburgh EH7 5LA Fixed price £880,000

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An extremely spacious and stylish six-bedroom semi-detached family home situated in the highly desirable residential area of Morningside. The property has been stylishly renovated to create an impressive home with double garage, off-street parking, landscaped garden to the front and large sunny garden and terrace to the rear.

Tel: 0131 240 3818 Agent: Allan McDougall

Tel: 0131 667 0232 Agent: Warners

19 Mayﬁeld Gardens, Edinburgh EH9 2AX Offers over £900,000

49 Cluny Gardens Edinburgh EH10 6BL Offers over £995,000

Airybank, Cousland, Dalkeith, Midlothian EH22 2NT Offers around £1,100,000

CITY OF EDINBURGH

A stunning individually architect-designed detached home on three levels offering spacious and contemporary-styled living accommodation in a very peaceful and sought-after location. The property is set in large private gardens (approx 0.5 acres) with a magniﬁcent south-westerly open view over the River Almond. x5

Tel: 0131 337 1800 Agent: Blair Cadell

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

CITY OF EDINBURGH

Straven Guest House, 3 Brunstane Road North, Joppa, Edinburgh EH15 2DL Offers around £850,000

37 Palmerston Place, Edinburgh EH12 5AU Offers around £850,000 Mid terraced “B”-listed townhouse over five floors in sought-after West End location. Development opportunity. Plans available for five luxury flats. Many original period features are retained. x 17

This is a 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-style features.

x 10

Tel: 0131 667 0232 Agent: Warners

102 March Road, Edinburgh EH4 3SX Offers over £830,000

39 Barnton Avenue West (F2), Edinburgh EH4 6DF Fixed price £825,000

An exceptional and beautifully presented ﬁve-bedroom detached house located in a desirable, award-winning Mactaggart & Mickel development. The property offers generously proportioned, bright family accommodation with driveway, double garage and delightful garden.

Luxury split-level three-bedroom ground floor flat, part of an exclusive new development, quietly located in the much sought-after exclusive residential district of Barnton. The property has been completed to an exacting specification with high-quality fittings and fixtures throughout.

Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

Tel: 0131 228 2400 Agent: HBJ Gateley Wareing

An elegant and impressive ground and garden ﬂat situated in the heart of the city’s historic and prestigious Georgian New Town. It offers bright and spacious accommodation on two ﬂoors with private garden to the rear and offstreet parking.

Tel: 0131 337 1800 Agent: Blair Cadell

Tel: 0131 525 8616 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

17a Northumberland Street, Edinburgh EH3 6LL Fixed price £850,000

6 Dean Park Crescent, Edinburgh EH4 1PN In the region of £800,000 Impressive double-fronted Victorian main door ground and garden-level house situated in a highly desirable central location. Well presented and versatile accommodation retaining many ﬁne period features. x6

Tel: 0131 240 0700 Agent: Bonar MacKenzie

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

CITY OF EDINBURGH

International Guest House, 37 Mayﬁeld Gardens, Edinburgh EH9 2BX Offers around £800,000

14/2 Ramsay Garden, Edinburgh EH1 2NA Fixed price £795,000

Impressive Victorian terraced house located in the much sought-after residential area of Newington to the south side of the city. Currently run as a four-star guest house but ideally suited as a substantial family home subject to necessary local authority consents.

Set in this historic landmark building adjacent to Edinburgh Castle and enjoying panoramic views, this duplex apartment comprises reception hall, drawing room, dining room, ﬁtted dining kitchen, four bedrooms, family bathroom and luxurious shower room.

x 12

Tel: 0131 222 4860 Agent: Ritchie Neill

16 Denham Green Place, Edinburgh EH5 3PB Fixed price £790,000 Impressive and substantial five-bedroom end terrace Victorian house over three floors offering spacious accommodation, situated in a quiet treelined street within the popular Trinity area of the city. Fine period features including fireplaces, decorative ceilings, stained glass windows and fine cornice work. x5

Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

Tel: 0131 228 2381 Agent: Shield & Kyd

LD SO

4 BED TERRACED HOUSE New Town LD SO

5 BED DETACHED HOUSE Morningside LD SO

5 BED TERRACED HOUSE New Town 46 ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING

353 Lanark Road, Edinburgh EH14 2LQ Offers over £730,000

20 Granton Road, Edinburgh EH5 3QH Fixed price £775,000 This is a beautifully presented ﬁve bedroom semi-detached Victorian house over three ﬂoors offering spacious accommodation with sunny garden and off-street parking, situated in the popular Trinity area of the city. x5

Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

Beautifully presented modern detached family house in an enviable secluded position overlooking Colinton Dell. The accommodation is split over three levels and includes sitting room, living room, dining room, breakfast kitchen, family room/study, master bedroom with ensuite bathroom and dressing room, four further double bedrooms x5

Tel: 0131 247 1010 Agent: Morton Fraser

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

LOTHIANS

LD SO

6-BED DETACHED HOUSE East Linton LD SO

4-BED DETACHED HOUSE North Berwick

12 The Inveresk Estate, Inveresk, Musselburgh EH21 7TA Fixed price £970,000

LD SO

Within a very exclusive development, this magnificent modern detached villa provides luxury family accommodation with quality fixtures and fittings throughout. This superb property is generously proportioned and finished architecturally in the Scottish baronial style. x5

5-BED DETACHED HOUSE Roslin

Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

Tel: 0131 200 1234 Agent: Balfour + Manson

Ravensheugh House, 1 Marmion Road, North Berwick EH39 4PQ Offers over £790,000

This is a spectacular modern detached family house, built for the 21st century. It offers an excellent country lifestyle in a spacious, bright, tastefully decorated home with ﬂexible spaces overlooking woodland and open farm land with distant views to the Firth of Forth and beyond. It is situated on an exclusive development just 12 miles west of Edinburgh city centre.

Tel: 01620 892000 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

24 Newlands, Kirknewton EH27 8LR Offers over £850,000

Set amid extensive gardens, this impressive detached Victorian house has been recently upgraded throughout to a high standard and offers superb, versatile family accommodation as well as an adjoining self-contained studio ﬂat.

Woodlands is set in outstanding walled garden grounds extending to approximately 1.25 acres. It is an attractive detached stone-built house, formerly the old squash court of Westerdunes House having been converted in 1973.

Tel: 0131 445 3208 Agent: Mary R McQueen

Eastwood House, Fushiebridge, Midlothian EH23 4QH Fixed price £925,000

Woodlands, Westerdunes Park, North Berwick EH39 5HJ Fixed price £950,000

Ravensheugh House is an outstanding and spacious private detached property retaining many original features situated at the eastern end of the much sought-after Marmion Road. Being in an elevated position, the house has exquisite views over the Firth of Forth and beyond. x4

Tel: 01620 892000 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

LOTHIANS

5a Houston Mains Holdings, Dechmont EH52 6JU Offers around £700,000

Kingstone Lodge, Broadgait, Gullane EH31 2DJ Offers over £690,000

Substantial, luxuriously built architect-designed detached bungalow with two warehouse/retail units each approx 3318 sq ft set within grounds extending to just over seven acres. To be sold as one.

Exceptionally spacious modern ﬁve-bedroom detached house (2810sq ft) in extensive private grounds in highly sought-after East Lothian commuter village.

Tel: 0131 555 2999 Agent: Lints

A stunning conversion of a traditional stone building that has been signiﬁcantly re-designed and extended to create a beautiful family home of the highest standard. The highly versatile living accommodation allows a layout suited for home office use, an au pair/granny ﬂat or even bed and breakfast potential.

Tel: 0131 525 8600 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

Tel: 0131 524 9797 Agent: McEwan Fraser Legal

Coalheughead Cottage, West Calder EH55 8RT In the region of £675,000

A stunning detached home set in approx 5.5 acres and built in traditional style with a striking traditional and contemporary interior offering approximately 320 square metres of space.

48 ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING

Highly desirable extended detached bungalow offering ideal family-sized accommodation in this sought-after location. Comprises entrance vestibule, hall, lounge with feature fireplace incorporating living flame gas fire, dining kitchen, family room, five bedrooms, study and bathroom.

Tel: 0845 217 9780 Agent: Mov8

The Farmhouse Roseview, by Howgate EH46 7BE Offers over £675,000

Tel: 0131 220 3336 Agent: MacMac Residential

Elanora, Dirleton Road, North Berwick EH39 5DF Offers around £675,000

Apartment 3, Broad Sands, Fidra Road, North Berwick EH39 4NG Fixed price £656,000 Broad Sands is a luxury gated development of two and three-bedroom apartments situated in the East Lothian golﬁng coastal town of North Berwick. The spacious, ﬂexible apartments are exceptional and will satisfy people looking for both contemporary and period living. x3

Tel: 01620 892000 Agent: Simpson & Marwick

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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PREMIER PROPERTIES

FIFE, BORDERS & CENTRAL

Thorrington, 4 Birkhill Road, Stirling FK7 9JS Offers over £850,000 Beautiful family home dating from the late 19th century. ‘C’ Listed, Thorrington is in a much sought-after location convenient for access to most private schools in the central belt as well as access to both Edinburgh and Glasgow airports. x4

Tel: 01896 752379 Agent: Pike & Chapman

This is a rare opportunity to acquire a substantial four-bedroomed family home in extensive private gardens including a large decorative pond. Ideally located in the sought-after village of Dolphinton which fringes the Scottish Borders. x4

Tel: 01721 721515 Agent: Blackwood & Smith

Leven View, 28 Perth Road, Milnathort, Kinross KY13 9XU Offers over £500,000

Set in a superb peaceful location within a small development on the edge of the town, this stunning ex-showhome detached villa was constructed to an exceptionally high speciﬁcation incorporating many stylish characteristics.

Tel: 01592 206605 Agent: McKenzies

1 Craigerne Crescent, Peebles EH45 9HW Offers over £575,000

Merklands, Dolphinton, West Linton EH46 7AB Offers over £575,000

Tel:0131 555 2999 Agent: Lints

An appealing and exceptionally spacious detached villa, enjoying a quiet situation commanding a stunning, uninterrupted view overlooking Elie golf course.

Rural but accessible location with superb views and 13 acres, including outbuilding, stables, paddocks and ponds, three public rooms, seven bedrooms, utility areas and two bathrooms.

Tel: 01786 823769 Agent: McLean & Stewart

Elphin, Grange Road, Elie, Leven KY9 1AL Fixed price £675,000

Broadmeadows Farmhouse, Yarrow Ford, Selkirk TD7 5LZ Offers over £710,000

A detached executive villa adjacent to open countryside and enjoying attractive views. This property has been completed to an exacting speciﬁcation with high-quality ﬁnishes throughout. The spacious accommodation covers approx 265sqm and is set in extensive grounds in the region of 1/2 of an acre.

Tel: 01577 862405 Agent: Andersons

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PREMIER PEOPLE

Having just moved house and opened a second restaurant in Edinburgh, celebrity chef Tom Kitchin pauses long enough to reﬂect on recent life-changing events

Moving moments WORDS: BEVERLEY BROWN

{QUESTION}

minutes drive away from the business, so it’s ideal for us.

THE LAST FOUR YEARS SINCE OPENING THE KITCHIN MUST HAVE BEEN A WHIRLWIND FOR YOU – WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS? The best thing that happened to me was the birth of our son, Kasper, in 2008. And we’re now expecting baby number two later this year, which we’re thrilled about. Having seen the business develop and receive recognition and support for our hard work has also been fantastic. Receiving a Michelin star only six months after opening was an amazing surprise, and there have since been other awards - and great comments from many people, including food critic AA Gill. Launching the Castle Terrace restaurant in July has opened up a whole new chapter for us, particularly as my wife Michaela was seven months pregnant at the time and we had just moved house the week before!

{QUESTION} HOW DO YOU RELAX WHEN YOU’RE NOT AT THE RESTAURANT? We’re passionate about good food and fresh ingredients and, even away from restaurant, I’m always thinking about food. I insist on cooking when I’m home so we can spend quality time together. Michaela and I also enjoy cooking and eating with friends. I play football on Sundays and try and improve my tennis game whenever I can; both take my mind off things and are a great way to relax.

{QUESTION} WHAT IS YOUR KITCHEN LIKE AT HOME?

Above and below: Tom and his wife Michaela now live in the Trinity area of Edinburgh, close to their award-winning restaurant

{QUESTION} MICHAELA HAS TAKEN A PROMINENT ROLE IN THE DESIGN OF YOUR RESTAURANTS – WHAT INFLUENCES HER, AND IS SHE ALSO PASSIONATE ABOUT THE INTERIOR DESIGN IN YOUR HOME? Michaela is Swedish and has always had an interest in interior design and naturally seems to know what would look good in a room and create the right atmosphere. She also has a great eye for detail and worked closely with the designers in creating 50 ESPC.COM/PREMIERLIVING

the right look and relaxed feel in both restaurants. The same goes for our home, which deﬁnitely has a Scandinavian inﬂuence and that same comfortable-yetstylish feel with light colours and clean lines.

{QUESTION} YOU CHOSE LEITH AS A LOCATION FOR YOUR RESTAURANT AND YOUR FIRST HOME IN

EDINBURGH – WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE AREA? Michaela and I love Leith and, having researched the Edinburgh dining scene, it’s where we chose to set up The Kitchin and where we lived initially, to be near the restaurant. Our recent move to Trinity was prompted by a need for more space and a garden for our son. We’re still only a few

It’s the most important room in our house and where we spend most of our free time. As we like open, spacious areas, our new kitchen has an open-plan area with a large dining table and a traditional Swedish kitchen bench. The décor is Farrow & Ball’s ‘Pavillion Grey’, which complements white window shutters, kitchen furniture and original wooden ﬂoors.

{QUESTION} IF MONEY WERE NO OBJECT, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM HOME? A farmhouse in Provence surrounded by vineyards and lavender ﬁelds. Tom Kitchin is head chef and owner of the one Michelin-starred The Kitchin restaurant in Leith.

ESPC: No.1 for property in East Central Scotland

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