Video: Barn O’ Braco, Chapel of Garioch, Inverurie
Couple’s son created award-winning home
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THE award-winning house Andrew McAvoy designed for his parents Sandra and James is a stunning showpiece of architectural design and flair.
Architect Andrew transformed the run down 19th century barn into a bright, airy and contemporary home
Sandra, 64, said: When we sold our house at Rothienorman we started looking at the market but soon realised we weren’t going to find what we wanted.
“We moved into rented accommodation and proceeded to look for a plot of land.
“In 2001 we came across this site quite by chance when we saw a ‘For sale’ sign at the foot of a road we were passing.
“We drove up to have a look.”
“The barn was absolutely dilapidated but when Andrew saw the site he knew it was exactly right.”
Sandra and James, 65, who works for oil service company PSN, were also very impressed but couldn’t quite visualise it as well as Andrew. Sandra said: “Although we were carried along by his enthusiasm we also realised we had found something special.”
Tucked away in the Aberdeenshire countryside, the plot had everything they were looking for.
They put in an offer and were successful.
The design of the house was soon under way.
“Being an environmental architect Andrew was looking to use local material sourced from Scottish wood and local joiners.
“This was a bit of a project for him as he had just finished overseeing the design and build of the pods for the TV series, Castaway.
“He was also involved in the design and build of a property featured on Grand Designs.” added Sandra proudly.
Work began by clearing the interior of the barn.
To this was added a large and impressive green oak framed extension which provided full height space over the lounge and dining areas.
The framework was put together on site and it took six carpenters a weekend to do it.
One of their aims was to get as much natural light as possible into the building.
This was achieved by incorporating vast amounts of glass into the design. Under floor heating and a stylish wood burning stove keep the house warm and cosy all year round.
This is an amazing house with loads of wow factor which starts at the front door.
The double height lounge and dining area with its beautiful oak beams and wall of glass is breathtaking.
Another special feature is the curved wall with inset glass bricks.
On the first floor overlooking the dining area is a large room with gallery which Sandra and James use as a second lounge.
“We spend a lot of time up here. It’s nice and cosy and there are lovely views.”
A hall leads into the original barn area which now houses two large bedrooms, a sauna/shower room and kitchen diner.
The large dining kitchen is fitted with a modern range of blue lacquered base and wall units and stainless steel appliances.
On the first floor are two spacious and bright bedrooms with built-in wardrobes and the family bathroom.
The interior of the property has been decorated and furnished in a minimalist style that blends in seamlessly with the design of the building.
Outside the large garden has been laid to lawn with shrub borders and trees and there is a large decking area.
Resembling the house in design is a double garage/workshop which has also won a design award from Aberdeenshire council.
Andrew wanted to create a home he thought his parents would love to have and he certainly achieved his goal.
Sandra said: “It’s going to be a big wrench leaving this house.
“I’ve wanted to be a grandmother for many years and with a new granddaughter and another baby on the way we really need to be close to them.”
