Living in Aberdeen, it’s easy to choose the area you want to be in. There are always properties from all corners of the city floating around the market, although it isn’t always possible to get first dibs on the one you have set your heart on.
But when Stephanie Baynham went to view a brand new housing development in 2008, she got first pick of a selection of newly-built townhouses in Cordiner Avenue.
In a block of six homes built by CALA, Stephanie, 27, went for number 44 due to its spacious lounge, high ceilings and bright atmosphere.
“We were one of the first groups to see the finished development,” she explained.
“Only one of the six houses in the block had been sold so we were able to choose which one we wanted.
“I was after something that was nice, clean and easy to maintain as I’d lived in some horrible student flats previously.
“I also went for a granite building, seeing as I was in Aberdeen – it seemed like the thing to do.”
Stephanie, a solicitor from Edinburgh, moved into the home during her third year at Aberdeen University and shared the property with her brothers who were also studying in Aberdeen. She is now heading back to the capital with her husband Matthew, of the same age, to work with a new law firm.
She said: “We got married in February and so it was our first home as a couple.
“It will be sad to leave, as we love the house, but it will make a great home for someone else too.
“We’ve not bought anything yet but we’re hoping to get something nice and bright with a big living room and private garden – if we could take this house with us, that would be ideal.”
Shared with the house next door, the residence, which spans three floors, was originally part of the Clifton House building, an old student residence hall which has been converted and refurbished to an exceptional standard.
Generously proportioned with high ceilings, lofty windows allow a flood of light, especially in the living room, which is perhaps the focal point of the modern abode.
“That and the kitchen are my favourite rooms.
“The lounge is really spacious so it was great for socialising and having dinner parties while I was at uni.”
Looking over the scenery, the living room has a tranquil and airy ambience. A fenced garden with railings sits behind the house and is styled with bark chippings, gravel borders and a variety of shrubs. The development has well maintained landscaped grounds, laid mainly in lawn with a number of tall, mature trees, shrubberies and flower beds.
“It’s almost like living in a park as the surroundings are quite scenic.”
The generous kitchen features plenty of cabinet and worktop space while its gas hob, electric oven and grill, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer are to be included in the home’s £425,000 starting price.
Exploring the rest of the recently decorated home, the two bedrooms on the ground floor of the accommodation are spacious and benefit from built-in double wardrobes, while one has an en suite Jack and Jill style bathroom. There are a further two equal-sized bedrooms on the second floor, one of which has particularly far-reaching views and is currently used as a study.
“I think because the bedrooms are all the same size, it’s ideal for students as the rooms can be rented out at the same price.
“But then because it’s so quiet is would be good for families and young professionals as it’s so close to town.”
Sitting in the residential district of Hilton in the north-west of Aberdeen, occupants have been well served by local shops, schools and a regular bus service into town, while Aberdeen University, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary and Woodhill House are all within easy reach.
Contact Simpson and Marwick on 01224 622622.