Video: Inchgarth House, Pitfodels
Couple say goodbye to Victorian mansion
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INCHGARTH House is an imposing property which 30 years ago totally beguiled Sandy and Bill Smith.
At the time the couple were living in a modern bungalow they had built themselves in Portlethen.
Inchgarth House was at the other end of the spectrum – a magnificent property forming part of a Victorian mansion which retained many original features.
It was built for Lieutenant George Skene Tayler, an ex-naval man, who made his fortune in the Far East.
“We had been thinking of moving into town for some time,” said Sandy, aged 66.
“When a friend told me about this house I went to see it and knew immediately it was the one for us.”
“Initially, it was just this part of the house that was for sale.
“The other part had been converted into two flats but had never been lived in.”
“We persuaded the owner to sell us the whole thing.”
The couple first saw the property in May 1977 and by the beginning of July they had moved in with their two children Ross and Wendy.
Some years later the flats were sold.
Although Inchgarth House offers all the peace and tranquility you could wish for, it also benefits from being close to Cults with its variety of shops, sport and leisure facilities.
“Really, we have the best of both worlds.” said Sandy.
A sweeping, tree-lined drive opens up to reveal the substantial granite property which sits in six acres of land.
One of the many striking features which caught Sandy’s attention on her first visit was the stunning hall and staircase with stained glass windows at the half landings.
“I fell in love with it and still think ‘what a lovely hall’.
“I am so lucky to have lived in this house for all these years.”
It goes without saying that every room in this house is exceptionally large, bright and airy.
None more so than in the fabulous reception hall/dining room which is enormous and perfect for entertaining.
It features extensive hardwood panelling on the walls, wood parquet flooring and finely carved arched panels and pillars.
And double doors open on to the granite portico at the south end of the house.
Off the main reception area is a substantial and elegant drawing room.
Two sets of huge double doors slide back into the woodwork to provide access.
When open, both areas combine to make an even bigger space for entertaining.
“We even held our son’s wedding in here.” laughed Sandy.
The room is decorated in a restful shade of green and is in complete contrast to other rooms as there is no wood panelling.
And Bill, 73, has created a little sun room by sectioning off part of the room.
The morning room is cosy and it’s the room they use most.
This lovely room has an attractive fireplace, two big windows and a door into the lounge.
Bill was a joiner and before retiring owned Woodworkers Supplies, which was based in Marischal Street.
While tackling the refurbishment of the dining kitchen he knocked through the ceiling and uncovered the most stunning domed ceiling.
The end result of his hard work is a beautiful kitchen fitted with modern units and plenty of space for informal dining.
Upstairs is the impressive master bedroom, which has a balcony and en-suite bathroom.
Sandy said: “It’s comfortable and warm and with all the windows gets lots of sun.”
Bedroom two is a very pretty room with three big windows and the original fireplace.
There are two more bright, airy rooms and a large family bathroom on this floor.
Outside are grounds featuring large lawns, woodland and undeveloped grassed areas.
“We have absolutely loved the house but now it’s far too big for us,” said Sandy.
