LOTS and lots of space was the top priority for Claire and Stewart Russell when they built their dream home.
And when you consider some of the characters they’ve got under their roof, it’s easy to see why.
First comes little son Thomas, now four, who needs plenty of room for the serious business of playing and riding his bike.
Next are the two massive Leonberger mountain dogs Konni and Ellie, who are so big they weigh a whopping eight stone each.
And if that’s not enough, the family rescued a little West Highland terrier called Benson who has also joined the pack. Did we forget to mention Arthur the giant rabbit who lives in his run in the garden?
“Space, lots of space, that was the main thing,” said 36-year-old Claire.
“We had the house built by Harmony Homes eight years ago and the lounge is one of my favourite parts because it’s so huge.
“All of the downstairs is really big. In fact when it’s raining, Thomas can bring his little bike in and just ride round and round the kitchen.
“The views from the house are terrific. We look right out to Bennachie.”
Claire, a manager at Aberdeenshire Council and 35-year-old Stewart, a project engineer in the oil industry, have loved their home’s location.
Originally from Fife, Stewart moved to Aberdeen as a student. After graduation, Claire, his childhood sweetheart, came to join him.
They’ve lived in various locations around the North-east, but have found a little paradise in Oyne.
“It’s just a great place to live and just about everyone I know commutes into Aberdeen easily for work,” said Claire.
“It’s perfect for people who work in the city but want to live in the country.
“We go up Bennachie regularly with the dogs, and we are about 800 yards from the primary school.
“And I can’t imagine finding better neighbours. If there’s ever a time I can’t get home to walk the dogs, one of them will pop over and take them out for me. The street has that lovely, trusting community feel to it.”
The four-bedroom house has a bright and airy feel.
The lounge has a modern home cinema kit included. French doors lead to the back garden.
And the kitchen offers another great big sociable space. It’s open plan with a family room and a dining room and still has lots of space left over for Thomas to play.
Upstairs a star attraction is the en-suite bathroom, a favourite spot of Stewart’s thanks to its big bath.
Located off the master bedroom, it has been decorated with chocolate brown tiles and has underfloor heating.
The Russells are planning a move back to their roots to be closer to family.
“It’s going to be very sad to leave this home behind and I’ve got very mixed feelings about it.
“It’s really a great home with lots of space and a lovely location. I hope someone else can enjoy it.”