Endeavour: to try hard to achieve something.
Colin and Liz Cumming did just that when they set out to create an usual home.
You would perhaps expect to find steadings and quaint fishermen cottages at Maud, just outside Peterhead.
But the fittingly-named Endeavour has an almost futuristic look, with hints of TV programme Grand Designs and a smattering of luxury for good measure. From the indoor swimming pool to the gorgeous grounds, this stunning family home was built to break the mould.
“We endeavoured to do something different,” said Liz, who is a retired shop worker.
Colin, who used to be an engineer, has built two properties before but never on the scale of Endeavour.
Having spotted the idyllic plot in the heart of the Buchan countryside, the couple started work in 2009. The original cottage on the site, which was in a state of disrepair, was knocked down – but the material was incorporated into retaining walls. The vision was finally complete in 2013, and Endeavour is now a base for the couple’s eight grandchildren at weekends.
With two more grandchildren on the way, Liz and Colin have already started their next project – having vowed it will be on a much smaller scale.
They believe their current home would be ideal for a family in search of something that bit different.
“We had the initial idea for Endeavour and then consulted an architect,” said Colin.
“We obviously had various tradespeople involved, and moved in 2012, just before completion. It has actually been really good fun, we’ve enjoyed the process. “I think me and Liz make a good team.”
Endeavour is set in 2.5 acres of ground, complete with lawns pruned to perfection.
Venture inside and you’ll discover an effortless combination of open-plan space and a minimalist feel. The open-plan reception hall offers a laid back living area, while the family room is set on an open-plan level with the dining kitchen. This is a fantastic space which will suit all occasions, whether it’s a formal dinner party or time spent with family.
The kitchen offers co-ordinating worktops, a central island unit and integrated appliances. Colin and Liz have also taken care of little details – having added an instant hot water tap, plinth floor lighting, breakfast bar area with open views into the lounge area, plus tile-effect flooring.
The grandchildren have been able to run riot in the games room, whilst Liz opts for an early-morning swim in the heated swimming pool. You’d be forgiven for mistaking this area of Endeavour for a spa, thanks to the hot tub where you can watch TV, seating areas for lounging, plus shower and changing rooms.
Having enjoyed swimming pools abroad, Liz had a rather special reason for including a pool in the plans.
“I used to be scared of water, and having a swimming pool at home has really improved my confidence,” she said.
“The grandchildren use the swimming pool under supervision every weekend, but I prefer a swim early morning.
“It has really helped me because I know the exact depth, and I’m not scared of putting my foot in the wrong place.
“We tend to use the pool a lot more in the winter, when it’s harder to get out and exercise.”
The large master bedroom can be found upstairs, and the layout means it offers both a living space and bedroom combined. With gorgeous countryside views, you’ll struggle to tear your gaze away. You can also make the most of the en suite, with corner bath and separate shower cubicle. A dressing area offers both hanging and shelved storage.
There are three further double bedrooms, and bedroom two benefits from a spacious en suite with both bath and shower cubicle. Bedrooms three and four share a Jack and Jill en suite shower room. The garden offers plenty of opportunities for alfresco dining, with rockery and a dry stone dyke.
An impressive double garage complete with workshop will be ideal for those who enjoy a project, particularly if you enjoy tinkering with cars.
“We’ve loved it here, we’re very happy with how it turned out,” said Liz.
“We can see Bennachie, and the farmland changes with the seasons. This would make a perfect family home, and could even be used as B&B.
“We will miss it, but life moves on and we are now building our next home – just on a smaller scale this time.”
Endeavour is on the market for offers over £625,000, 12% under home report valuation. Contact Ledingham Chalmers on 01224 632500.
