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However, Inside can be another story. Because most of these types of buildings – although old – aren’t listed, the interiors can be transformed to modern, light-filled spaces, with features such as double height rooms, beamed ceilings and extensive glass brought into play.
Modern technology in insulation and heating mean that a recent steading conversion can rival the energy performance levels of a brand new house.
Christiansen points to 1 Aulton of Fochel Steadings near Oldmeldrum, which her firm is currently marketing.
The four-bedroomed house is one of a handful of properties converted from former farm buildings in a scenic location amongst the beautiful Aberdeenshire countryside, five miles from 1 Aulton of Fochal Steadings, Oldmeldrum, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire.
Four bedrooms, two public rooms and an attic games room.
Gardens and three-acre paddock. Inverurie and 15 miles from Aberdeen.
It was converted in 2010 and at its heart is an impressive open-plan lounge, dining room and kitchen, which creates a fantastic space with a striking high-vaulted ceiling.
A galleried landing with glass balustrades leads to an attic games room and the property has an integral garage. Unusually for a steading, the house not only has generous walled gardens at the front and back with terracing and lawns, but a three-acre paddock.
It is also within easy commuting distance of Aberdeen, meaning that it not only has the best mix of old and new, but a good compromise between rural and urban too.