When Kath Cable first set eyes on The Chapter House in old Aberdeen, she decided within five minutes that the 17th-century semi-detached cottage would be hers.
Found in historic Don street near the banks of the River Don, Kath fell in love with the Grade A listed three-bedroom home and has lived there for nine years.
Dating back to 1655, The Chapter House made for quite the change from Kath’s previous flat in Aberdeen city centre.
She now hopes to move out to a bungalow in the countryside, but will miss living in a house which has such an amazing past.
It was originally called The Cruickshank Lodgings after the first owners, Barbara and George Cruickshank.
The house was derelict for some time before it was restored in 1973 to form two individual residences.
Kath is only the second owner since its restoration, and is hoping someone will love The Chapter House just as much as she has.
It’s been a busy time for Kath, 50, an HR manager, and her partner, Gillies Lachlan MacBean, 49, who works in IT.
They’ve made dozens of changes to the house and created a mixture of contemporary design and charming tradition.
“I’ll always remember coming to see The Chapter House for the first time; I was interested straight away because of the history and when I looked around inside I pretty much made up my mind to buy it,” said Kath.
“I was so excited and envisaged what it could be like.”
Kath has created wonderful open-plan space which is evident from the moment you walk through the door.
The large kitchen come dining and living room area makes for the perfect dinner party.
There is an extensive range of units and modern appliances, including a cooking range.
“There was originally a country-style kitchen in what was a separate room but I wanted to give it a modern facelift,” said Kath.
“I went for open space and a sleek look but it still retains a rural element.
“I enjoy cooking and have loved this room.
“Ben the cat enjoys the curling up in here as well.
“I didn’t have any previous experience of revamping old houses so it has been a real project and a half.”
The ground floor is completed with a utility room.
A carpeted staircase with oak spindle balustrade leads to the first floor.
The spacious landing is a favourite feature of Kath’s, and offers a lovely view over the courtyard and towards the River Don.
There are two double bedrooms on this floor, although one is currently used as a sitting room.
There is also a bathroom which has a roll-top slipper bath and a raised height cistern with chain flush.
But it is the loft conversion which Kath is most proud of.
“The attic was one of the things which attracted me to the house, it was one massive storage space,” she said.
“We created a master bedroom which has an en suite shower room.
“I’m really proud of that because it meant we didn’t need to have two bedrooms on the first floor.”
Underfloor heating is laid in several rooms in the house and the gas central heating system has been updated.
The Chapter House has a high degree of privacy with beautifully maintained gardens.
When it comes to alfresco dining, it doesn’t get much better then sipping a glass of wine while overlooking the River Don.
No matter what time of year, a decking area at the front of the house offers the perfect view.
The colours are particularly spectacular in autumn and the river is a wildlife haven.
“We’ve watched seals playing at the river mouth and there’s otters as well,” said Kath.
“During the spring time you get the chorus from the birds and there’s a herd of deer that often trot past.
“It’s just a glorious area, and one of the oldest bridges in Britain is just round the corner.”
The Brig o’ Balgownie originates from the 13th century and was commissioned by Robert the Bruce.
“I can recall standing on this bridge looking over the river and thinking this is where I need to be,” said Kath.
“It’s a real wrench to leave, it’s really quiet here and there are some gorgeous walks in the area.
“I’ve got my heart set on a wee place in the countryside, but The Chapter House has been incredibly special to me.”
Offers should be made over £335,000.
Contact the owner on 07766 201227.
