Aberdeen-born Gail Rash was living abroad in Tanzania when she decided with husband Michael that it was time to move back to the north-east with their two children.
She returned to the Granite City with instructions to find a house that was “ready to move into”. But that’s not exactly how it worked out.
“The house that I found could not have been further from that description,” Gail said.
The house in question was Newton Cottage, 26 Arduthie Road, Stonehaven. Built in 1860, it had been owned by the same woman for more than 50 years when Gail came across it in 2003.
Gail explained that the house was very dated and in need of some TLC – but as they had renovated period homes in the past, they were far from put off.
“I could just tell it would be a fantastic family home, it just felt right” she said.
The house got a complete makeover from new water pipes and double glazing to gas central heating and new external doors.
Outside has been equally transformed with a beautiful landscaped garden at the front with a spacious driveway and a lovely patio area to the side and grass area at the back.
“After work was completed it looked totally different,” Gail explained.
“Before, it was quite a dark and cold house but it had been brought back to life. It was bright and warm, it just looked really good.”
The Rash family should definitely be proud of their finished product. It is a gorgeous period home that while having been given a modern touch still retains its charm and character.
The stunning stained glass window in the main door is the first original feature that will catch your eye. Next is the grand sweeping staircase that takes centre stage in the lovely and bright hallway.
Also sure to impress on this floor is the elegant lounge with a beautiful original open fire place and a versatile family room which could be used for a number of purposes including a dining room or extra bedroom.
Walk down the hallway and you will come to the hub of the house – the traditional kitchen and dining area. Gail explained that previously the kitchen was where the utility room is now while a dining room and separate prep room took the larger area. The family decided to open up the space to make it work better for them.
And as I sat at the dining table talking to Gail I can confirm it was a fantastic idea. The open plan works great for being able to work in the kitchen while still speaking to guests but also makes the room feel larger and definitely brighter.
It is upstairs that you begin to realise how unique this home really is. Gail said the “quirkiness” of the home was one of her favourite features.
The upper floor is made up of a number of split levels. On the top floor are three good sized bedrooms, all with lovely views of the front garden while on the mezzanine level there are two shower rooms. A few more steps lead to the master bedroom, which is again a great size.
This home would be perfect for a growing family and while it may be big, it still feels cosy and welcoming.
Newton Cottage, which is on the market for a fixed price of £585,000, also features a basement which is bursting with opportunities.
At the moment it has a double bedroom with en suite shower room and another room, which while currently used for storage, could be converted into a kitchen, contrary to relevant planning permission.
As the basement has its own entrance from the outside, it could make a great business opportunity in the form of renting or holiday accommodation. It would also make a fantastic teenage den or granny flat.
The location of this house is also something Gail and her family have grown to love over the years.
Originally they had been looking to move to Deeside but it was a comment from Gail’s mother that changed their minds.
She said: “We originally looked at Banchory or Cults, but it was my mum who pointed out that when the kids got a bit older, being near a train station for them to go off on their own would be better. So that’s how we started looking at Stonehaven. The house is not only within easy walking distance of the railway station but also the town centre, Arduthie Primary School and Mackie Academy. An ideal location really.
“There is a great community here and there is plenty to do for the kids.”
Stonehaven lies just 15 miles south of Aberdeen – making it a great location for those looking to commute – and has excellent railway links to cities both north and south.
The vibrant seaside town boasts a picturesque harbour, lovely beachfront, Dunnottar Woods and Castle plus lots of amenities including excellent primary and secondary schools, shops, restaurants, a medical centre and lots of leisure facilities including the seasonal open air swimming pool.
Contact: Aberdein Considine on 01569 766166.