Returning to school
Luxury development in former primary is first class, writes Paul Drury
THEY are often regarded as the best days of your life – but how would you feel about going back to school to set up home? Seventies rockers Steely Dan were in no doubt about such a move, vowing: ‘I’m never going back to my old school.’
Yet that’s the intriguing prospect on offer in the Perthshire town of Blairgowrie, where the old Hill Primary School is being converted into 20 luxury flats and duplexes.
School days were never like this; underfloor heating, oak flooring, balconies and rich tiles by Fired Earth. Would you feel nervous if you discovered your new flat used to be the headmaster’s study?
And what about those who buy an apartment in the old school canteen? Could you still smell custard and jam?
Irish businessman John Burke is transforming the former school buildings which have lain empty since 2009.
But even he has room for a bit of nostalgia, retaining the original cast iron hooks from the pupils’ cloakroom, all numbered.
He said: ‘I’m sure there are some people in their seventies in the town who will still recall their old number.’
The public are invited back to class this weekend, to meet Mr Burke and his Savills sales team and pick some finishing touches for their potential new home.
Tomorrow and Sunday, between 12pm and 2pm, prospective purchasers can study the layout of the flats and inspect items such as taps and tiles which will be individually chosen for each flat.
The project is being constructed in two phases, with work starting first on the former canteen and adjoining red brick and concrete block which was built after the Second World War.
The original 1885 Victorian school building will be the last to be developed.
The construction of the post war block allows it to be converted into stunning New York-style lofts, with huge windows and 13ft high ceilings.
Mr Burke says he could have squeezed more flats into the building but preferred to make a dramatic architectural statement instead.
He said: ‘This development is all about quality, by ensuring things are done really well and only the best products get chosen.
‘Each apartment will have its own dedicated parking space, with a guaranteed option to buy another, if required.
‘It’s a brilliant location for downsizers. The school is just 300 feet from the high street and Sainsbury’s is just 150 feet more.’
One of the biggest issues downsizers face is having to divest yourself of a lifetime spent collecting things.
Once converted, the main Victorian building will come with subterranean storage pods for residents.
The cellars below the school will offer a great place to store bikes, golf clubs and those old Steely Dan cassettes.
First phase prices range from £185,000 to £360,000. Contact Savills 01356 628 630 or email perthnewhomes@savills.com.