Bridging the ages
This period property is just perfect for modern needs, says Paul Drury
THE bells might be ringing in a new decade on Tuesday night, but here’s a property that spans the centuries. The construction of Keith Bank in Inverkeithing, Fife, was begun on the order of the engineer whose firm supplied the steel for the Forth Bridge.
That was during the second half of the 19th century, when land was being bought up around the north and south banks of the Forth to accommodate the giant structure.
It is understood that before the client could occupy the imposing detached villa, the property was sold to a local publican. Evidence of his time in the house remains in the form of the etched glass in the attic skylight, which came from one of his hostelries.
Needless to say, the house offers fantastic transport links as two road bridges were built in the years that followed – the Forth Road Bridge and the £1.9billion Queensferry Crossing.
The junction of the M90 – and road access to Edinburgh – is only a mile away. For those who prefer the train, Edinburgh’s Waverley Station is 13 miles away, over what was once the world’s longest single cantilever span bridge.
Dating back to 1866, Keith Bank is typical of the kind of Victorian property that can comfortably adapt to modern needs.
The spacious accommodation is split over two floors, with the bonus of a cellar and an attic.
The kitchen and dining area is housed in a modern extension that offers lovely views across neighbouring allotments. The contemporary white units and silver five-hob Mercury cooker create a sleek and stylish finish, with sliding NorDan patio doors leading to the garden.
The drawing room has a large bay window with working internal shutters. Another window offers garden views and, like many of the rooms, has an original fireplace.
Along with one such fireplace, the downstairs bedroom also has a hatch – hidden in a press, or cupboard – which would once have led to the original kitchen. This room could also be used as a formal dining room.
To the left of the hall lies a fine working office that could be adapted to suit individual needs, such as a snug or family room.
A feature U-shaped staircase leads up to the first-floor landing. A further reception room is located towards the rear of the property, with its own ante room. These areas have not been developed to the same high standard as the rest of the property, so there is potential for an additional bedroom and bathroom.
On the first floor proper, the impressive master bedroom offers the same spectacular dimensions as the drawing room below. There are two further bedrooms, plus a smaller room.
Worthy of particular mention is the spacious bathroom, with free-standing bath, wash basin and WC – plus a working open fireplace.
Offers over £495,000 to Harry Maitland on 0131 247 3738 or email harry.maitland@savills.com