With a hot tub, barbecue hut and summer house, al fresco entertaining is always a stylish soiree at Little Raxton Croft.
Like something straight out of the hit TV property show Grand Designs, this gem of a home is seriously impressive.
Set within 1.5 acres of lush garden grounds, the plush property has been the source of many happy memories for Graham Thomson and his wife Jane, who are both retired.
But after 12 blissfully happy years, Graham, who worked in the oil and gas industry and Jane, who worked in the hair and beauty industry, have put their amazing home on the market as they prepare to downsize.
“We will miss a number of different things about living here, certainly the peace and quiet and the open space to be outside most days,” says Graham.
“Because the conservatory is 85% glass you feel you are already sitting in the garden listening to the various birds our garden seems to attract even if the weather is not ideal.”
Space and style
With experience of living abroad, Graham and Jane, who have four grown-up children, seven grandchildren and two dogs, knew exactly what they were looking for in a home and Little Raxton Croft ticked all the right boxes.
“Living in the Abu Dhabi and Houston, we have become accustomed to large rooms and open space,” says Graham.
“When we returned from overseas, we had a house in Ellon, and while it had five bedrooms and it was quite large we felt very confined and with retirement on our minds we were keen to secure a project to keep us active and give our dogs and grandchildren the space to run around and enjoy more of the outside.”
Labour of love
From the conservatory and split level dining area to the gallery landing and the ultra modern kitchen, it’s not a surprise that the couple instantly fell in love with Little Raxton Croft.
“The house was built about 20 years ago on the grounds of the original croft and is surrounded by agricultural grounds owned by the Haddo Estate,” says Graham.
“We bought the property from another Mr and Mrs Thomson (no relation) in 2011 and although they had made a great start with the design, we saw an opportunity to develop both the house and grounds and put our stamp on the 1.5-acre property.”
Perfect for entertaining
Over the years, the couple have certainly put their own stamp on their dream home, focusing their attention on the garden grounds and interior.
“About 50% of the grounds were left wild when we arrived and we set about planning different areas of grass, hedging, borders with trees, shrubs and flowers to complement what was already there,” says Graham.
“We also installed a summer house, greenhouse, potting shed and created an orchard at one end of the garden.”
Hot tub and barbecue hut
Bringing the outside in, the couple also installed a beautiful conservatory.
“In 2019 we built an extensive glass conservatory, installed a log burner, replaced the boiler with a new system, installed solar panels and a hot tub and barbecue hut all of which will remain with the property.”
Inside, every inch of this superb property oozes style and sophistication, particularly the attractive conservatory, split level dining area and modern kitchen.
During the summer, al fresco dining can be enjoyed on the decked patio area which is accessed via French doors from the dining area.
Relax to the max
Also on the ground floor is a third bedroom with built-in storage, a shower room and a boot room which gives access to the handy utility room and integral double garage.
Upstairs, the gallery landing is a great place to relax and enjoy the views over the garden.
Also on this level is a master bedroom with en suite as well as a versatile guest suite with two double bedrooms, shower room and an additional study/fourth bedroom.
Although Graham and Jane will miss their wonderful home, they’re happy in the knowledge that it will give another family so much joy.
New chapter
Asked what they think will appeal most to buyers, Graham says: “We think the fact that the house and grounds are quite unique.
“We have already had some interest and each party seem to agree that they are particularly drawn to the fact that it is not your normal four walls or box shaped.
“Additionally it’s full of natural light and the space and views are incredible in all directions.
“If you want your own space and be close to nature and like a bit of garden maintenance then this is the place for you.”
Other key features include solar panels, two sheds, a greenhouse and driveway.
Little Raxton Croft, Tarves, Ellon, is on the market for offers over £575,000.
To arrange a viewing contact Aberdein Considine on 01358 721893 or check out the website aspc.co.uk
Conversation