Fairy tale’s new twist
Striking revamp blends fresh ideas with original genius, writes Paul Drury
AFINE blend of Edwardianera genius and 21st century imagination has fashioned one of the most attractive Scottish homes on the market today. Uplands rises up from the Stirlingshire town of Bridge of Allan like a fairytale castle.
It was one of the final residential works of legendary Glasgow architect William Leiper, who worked on such fantastical projects as the city’s Templeton Carpet Factory and the banqueting hall of the City Chambers.
But for all his genius, Leiper’s 1907 creation had become a little tired by the time it last came onto the market for £750,000 in 2017 – which is where the ‘imagination’ comes in.
After purchasing the property in 2018, the new owners spent as much again on a comprehensive renovation scheme to produce the stunning example of real estate we see today.
Some of the ironmongery details alone are breathtaking.
They installed three commercialgrade boiler systems, all new bathroom and kitchen fittings, and 33 new and bespoke cast-iron radiators with valves made of brass. Three-quarters of the red pantiled roof was replaced or repaired. Trees were removed, the building sandblasted and painted and the pointing in garden walls was renewed.
It could be argued that Uplands looks as good now as it did the day the builders finished the job.
The grand Edwardian property was created for a member of the Pullar family, whose successful dry cleaning business Pullars of Perth became a staple of Scottish high streets. No expense was spared in its décor, both inside and out.
The east-facing entrance, still with the Pullars initials carved in stone, is so ornate it would not look out of place in Glasgow City Chambers.
There’s also leaded glass set within stone mullions, along with inglenook fireplaces and wainscoted walls.
The morning room, drawing room and dining room all have bay windows, with views over the Carse of Stirling and beyond.
Selling agent Austin Halliday said: ‘The owners have been extremely thoughtful when restoring and have incorporated colours and designs from the original era, while managing to preserve the integrity of the building.
‘The rooms on each floor have been reconfigured yet naturally lead into each other.’
There are four bedroom suites split between the first and second floors, plus two more bedrooms.
The owners have brought Uplands bang up to date with a cinema room and modern heating, security cameras and communications systems.
State-of-the-art features include Nest thermostats, Ring security cameras, Cat6 cabling throughout, media cupboard and UniFi wireless equipment.
Extensive and private gardens, which back onto woodland, have formal lawns to the front, herbaceous plants, a rockery – and even a revolving summerhouse.
To the rear is a kitchen garden with an orchard and greenhouse.
Offers over £1,500,000 to Austin Halliday on 01786 439355 or email Austin@hallidayproperty.co.uk.