WHEN you’ve got two energetic daughters dancing a Highland Fling around you, you need plenty of space.
And for the Barnett family, of Catterline, their magnificent property Kryenbye has been just the job.
The stunning five-bedroom house has been a happy home for Roger, 37, Lynn, 42, and their two daughters, Stephanie, 12, and Lucy, 10.
And the aspiring Highland dancing champions have had all the room they could need to practice their pas de basques.
“Between them, the girls have around 50 trophies for their dancing and they are hoping to be champion dancers one day,” said proud dad Roger, who trained as a plumber and central heating engineer and is now a company director.
“They are members of the Lindsay School Of Dance and this year the family is going to Canada where they will compete at several Highland Games.
“We’ve even converted the garage into a dance studio for them with a floor to practise on and a couple of mirrors.”
Roger and Lynn have lovingly converted this property, which was formerly a two bedroom cottage.
And it was full-time mum Lynn who devised the ideal layout.
From the bespoke kitchen and living area, to the Jack and Jill-style bathroom which links the girls’ bedrooms, she liaised with architects to realise her vision.
The family spend most of their time in the impressive open-plan living area.
Separated by a large breakfast bar, which has a double oven and ceramic hob set in it, the kitchen has been designed so that Lynn can keep an eye on the youngsters while she prepares meals.
The large and comfortable family area is perfect for lounging in front of the television and enjoying country views through the French doors.
The doors lead out to a decking area which is a favourite haunt of the girls in summertime.
Providing the perfect contrast to this modern living space is the formal lounge.
With its attractive cast-iron fireplace, it’s on semi-open plan with the dining room and has been decorated with traditional style furnishings.
Roger said: “This Christmas was perfect. If you can imagine the snow falling outside and the fire going inside, it was magical.
“This has definitely been a very sociable house and the layout is great for having guests over.
“We’ve had barbecues for 100 people and, when my brother comes to visit, he and his family have got their own wing to stay in.”
The Barnetts are now relocating due to Roger’s work commitments.
Roger said: “This is a wonderful area with some lovely people living nearby. Catterline Primary is an excellent school and it’s very close too.
“We have had a great time living here and I would recommend it to anyone.”