Soak up all the peace and serenity of the countryside while remaining close to vibrant village life in this verdant Victorian lodge house and converted creamery.
Quite literally a breath of fresh countryside air, South Lodge enjoys a postcard perfect location in Craigmyle, a hamlet just three minutes from the bustling Royal Deeside village of Torphins.
For the past 11 years, the charming three-bedroom lodge and adjacent larch clad creamery, which is currently used as an art studio and Airbnb, has been home to Leonie Gordon and her 15-year-old daughter Elena plus their adorable dogs Dara and Sugar.
Reflecting on what first attracted her to the resplendent rural retreat, Leonie, who has worked as a lawyer, trauma informed therapist and artist, says it was its amazing architecture, the idyllic setting and the incredibly versatile creamery building.
“I fell in love with South Lodge’s mix of traditional/modern architecture and its position, the view from the sunroom and deck, the woods on our doorstep and the fact that there are neighbours, so it doesn’t feel too remote but it is surrounded by countryside,” says Leonie.
“I also absolutely loved The Creamery – its larch cladded exterior and its natural industrial style inside but also the versatility and potential of the space.”
Cream of the crops
Built in 1890 and extended in 2005, the C-listed South Lodge has a fascinating history as does The Creamery which was designed by architect Michael Rasmussen
“The house was built as a lodge house I believe for the original Craigmyle House in the late 1880s,” says Leonie.
“It was added to in the 1980s and then the last owners built on the modern larch-clad extension that we call the sunroom and utility room/downstairs shower in 2005.
“They also built The Creamery in 2005 as an artisanal cheese-making facility, office and workshop.
“They made the award-winning Craigmyle Cheese and, when I bought the house, The Creamery had been let out to Cambus O’May Cheese.”
Peaceful vibes and panoramic views
With its pretty chocolate box style exterior, South Lodge instantly captures the essence of tranquil countryside life.
And this relaxed feeling continues inside where an attractive open plan dining/sitting room sets a homely tone.
From here a door leads through to the sunroom where panoramic views can be savoured.
But at the beating heart of the home is the recently fitted dual aspect kitchen complete with an array of storage units, integrated appliances and an electric double oven with induction hob.
Serene sanctuary
Completing the ground floor is a shelved larder cupboard, a utility room and a modern shower room.
Upstairs, there are three bedrooms including a plush principal bedroom as well as an attractive family bathroom.
The third bedroom is currently used as a study.
Leonie says the property has been the perfect place to work from home while enjoying everything the countryside has to offer.
“It suited my remote working full-time job and subsequently supported my desire to develop a more diverse working life which blended with my role as a parent,” says Leonie.
“I think the property would suit someone looking for a lifestyle change, someone like us, a family or even a retired couple; someone who sees the potential of the combination of the house and The Creamery.
“It would also suit anyone who likes nature while still having access to the city or an artist looking for studio space.”
The Creamery
Outside, the wonderful views can be fully appreciated from the deck while the extensive garden has an orchard, a domestic fowl run with chicken and duck houses and a small pond.
Not only that but there is also a greenhouse and a large garden office.
Situated directly opposite the property is The Creamery with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, an open plan sitting room/kitchen and an outdoor courtyard.
Asked what she has enjoyed most about her property, Leonie says it’s the location, views and flexible accommodation.
“I love the view from the sunroom through all the seasons,” says Leonie.
“I will miss that enormously and the sunsets can be fabulous.
“And I have really enjoyed the creative work and income opportunities offered by The Creamery as well as it being an overflow for friends and family to stay in.
“As an artist and nature lover, Aberdeenshire provides so much inspiration as well as a rich and talented network of artists and interesting people doing creative things.”
Although Leonie will miss the property, she is happy in the knowledge that it will make someone else very happy.
“It’s a bittersweet feeling,” says Leonie.
“I will miss so much about it, but if I have to be more specific, it is having such a beautiful home, which has adapted as our wants/needs have changed, surrounded by nature and stunning views, with my business on my doorstep and family and community nearby.”
South Lodge, Craigmyle, Torphins, Banchory, is on the market for £535,000.
To arrange a viewing phone 01224 971120 or check out the website savills.co.uk.
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