With a fully equipped gym, a serene semi-rural location and amazing neighbours, it’s no surprise that Lauren and Barry Lauder will be sad to leave their incredible home near Elgin.
Located in Troves, the stunning home has been the perfect place for the couple to create happy memories with their family including Lauren’s sons Jack and Finn, who live at the property, and Barry’s daughters Mylee and Merryn who stay for weekends and holidays.
But with an exciting new chapter in Abu Dhabi ahead, the couple, who recently tied the knot, have reluctantly put their plush property on the market.
“We are moving to Abu Dhabi with my work – I have been offered a new job,” says Lauren.
“This is something we have always wanted to do and feel the time is right just now to make the move.
“I have loved everything about living here and it’s been an extremely difficult decision to sell.”
Sad to leave dream home
From the rural yet central location and the spacious rooms to their amazing neighbours, Lauren says it will be tough to say goodbye to the home that she bought 11 years ago before Barry moved in.
“I love the south facing garden as we have the sun all day which often makes you feel like you’re abroad,” says Lauren.
“I also love the rooms sizes as we never feel like we’re living on top of each other.
“As well as this, I love the gym, I love my neighbours and the neighbourhood.
“In terms of location, I currently work in Aberdeen and have commuted back and forth for 11 years.
“This has been made easier with home working more common now though.”
Live in luxury
The epitome of luxury living, it’s easy to see why the five-bedroom property instantly appealed.
“I was attracted to the area and the unique style of the house as it’s different to any others in this area,” says Lauren.
“Troves is out of town slightly so it gives you a private feeling but having some neighbours gave me comfort as I didn’t want to be isolated with two young boys at the time.
“Also, the house has a south facing garden with underfloor heating on both floors and although it’s quite large it has a lovely home feeling about it.”
5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms
Jaw-droppingly beautiful from the outside, the property is even more impressive inside where sleek slate floors perfectly complement the contemporary interiors.
At the heart of the home is the fantastic open plan kitchen, living, and dining room.
Keen cooks are sure to be inspired in the stylish kitchen where there is an integrated coffee machine, double ovens, a kettle tap, a warming drawer and a large island.
Once you’ve whipped up a storm in the kitchen, join the family in the relaxed dining area where there is a log burning stove and bifold doors out to the patio area.
Workout in the home gym
And for those who love to workout, there is a fully equipped gym with triple aspect windows.
Over the years, Lauren says the property has been the ideal place to host family gatherings and parties.
“The most memorable parties have been my boys’ birthdays when they were younger as we’ve had pools, bouncy castles, slides and for one party we had 52 children in the garden,” says Lauren.
“The boys have loved the freedom of living here – whether going out exploring in the fields or playing football in the large garden.
“The boys will really miss this house – it has given them a very happy childhood.
“They often remark how lucky they have been here.”
Amazing upper floor with office space
Upstairs, there are four large bedrooms, three of which are ensuite.
Particularly impressive is the master suite which has a dressing room and an ensuite bathroom with a freestanding bathtub.
Also on this level are two further seating areas one of which has floor to ceiling windows so would make a fantastic home library or whisky room.
In addition, there is a second office space which could be transformed into a sixth bedroom while there are plans to transform the large airing cupboard into an upstairs utility room.
Beautiful garden with space for barbecues
There’s also potential to covert the huge attic space into a cinema/games room.
Outside, there is a large and secluded south-facing garden where family barbecues can be savoured.
Other key features include an integral double garage, a garden shed as well as a driveway.
Asked who she thinks the house will suit, Lauren believes it’s perfect for a range of people.
“I think the house is so versatile it would suit lots of people,” says Lauren.
“I know though that whoever buys this house will be happy living here.
“We are really going to miss it.”
Hallowood Road, Elgin, is on the market for offers over £695,000.
To arrange a viewing contact Deena at Compass Estates on 07486 083952, email info@compassestates.uk or check out the website compassestates.uk
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