the moss

Set in the stunning Blane Valley north of Glasgow, The Moss country house is a listed property with a fascinating history. Originally built in the 18th century as a classic double fronted Georgian villa it was extended in the 19th century to a design by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Frustratingly, the Mackintosh extension became damaged by decay and was unfortunately demolished in the 1960's before Mackintosh’s genius was widely recognised - today only some ironmongery remains. Following the demolition the side wing was rebuilt in the 1990's with an attic storey. When my client acquired the house it was in need of a full refurbishment.

Working alongside the client, interior stylist Karen Livingstone-Welstead, the strategy was to retain the layout of the original Georgian villa, modify the later wing and  update fittings and furnishings. Located in the later side wing the kitchen has been enlarged and opened up to the garden with 5.5m wide Crittall patio doors. The back stair has been remodelled with a contemporary nod to Mackintosh in the vertical slatted joinery - there is even a special snug corner under the stairs for Murphy the dog.

Upstairs a new knock through to the master bathroom provides a convenient ensuite dressing room/nursery. The fresh Scandinavian inspired interior pulls together period architecture with classic mid-century modern furnishings and contemporary fittings, papers and artwork. Bold colours are offset by natural timber and striking geometric patterned tiling.

The kitchen was entirely remodelled and is a departure from the Georgian. The whole kitchen orientates to the garden and the views of Dumgoyne through the new six metre wide Crittall patio window that opens onto a terrace. This a kitchen that presenter and judge in the Scottish Home of the Year Anna Campbell-Jones said “I am not sure if I have ever seen a more beautiful kitchen”.

The kitchen fittings are handmade designed by Cameron Interiors with a pink and chrome Aga forming a centrepiece and a heart to the home.

Credits:

Location: Blane Valley, Scotland

Architect: Donald Bentley

Interior Design: Karen Livingstone-Welstead

Kitchen: Cameron Interiors

Contractor: Make

Photography: Paul Tyagi