A divine opportunity
Old church could be the answer to your prayers, writes Dean Herbert
FOR more than a century it served as a place of worship. But now this converted Victorian church may be the property many house hunters have been praying for. What was once Kinfauns parish church has been converted into a sprawling family home in the heart of some of Scotland’s most stunning countryside.
Completed in 1869, the building was eventually sold off by the Church of Scotland to a private company in 1989. It then lay empty for decades amid a string of failed planning applications, appeals and various other forms of red tape. It was reported the building suffered from vandalism and fire during this time.
Now named ‘Awans’, the church has finally been given a full overhaul and is now a unique and spacious modern home – for those who have no qualms about living next door to a graveyard.
Where once cold Perthshire mornings were spent sitting in hard pews, the building now enjoys both under-floor and zoned central heating and, perhaps a first for a church, a sauna.
Over two floors are a large family room, dining area, living room and modern kitchen, while a third mezzanine area is home to a second living room, bathroom and two bedrooms.
However, for all its mod cons, the incredible building has remained unmistakably a church, with its vaulted wooden ceiling, stained glass rose windows and imposing gothic exterior.
Estate agent Premier Properties said: ‘In stunning condition, we are delighted to bring to market this immaculately presented and recently converted former church situated in the quiet and soughtafter hamlet of Kinfauns.
‘Awans sits on a lovely position overlooking the Carse of Gowrie providing stunning views of the Perthshire countryside towards both Perth and Dundee.
‘Viewing is highly recommended to appreciate the beauty of the property and the surrounding countryside.’
It added: ‘The property benefits from CCTV and a private driveway leading to plenty of off-road parking at the front of the property, with garden grounds surrounding the rest of Awans.
‘The garden features several outdoor seating areas ideal for enjoying the finer weather and beautiful countryside. Included in the sale is an adjoining piece of land measuring approximately half an acre.’
Despite its rural setting, the property is a ten-minute drive from the centre of Perth, while Dundee can be reached within half an hour. Meanwhile, Edinburgh is just over an hour away via the M90.
On the doorstep is the spectacular A-listed Kinfauns Castle, while the old Coronation Road, a royal route from the palace at Scone to the palace at Falkland, runs adjacent to the property.
For the house hunter looking for luxury with a historical twist, look no further than Awans.
■ Offers over £725,000. Contact Premier Properties on 01738 442255 or info@premierpropertiesperth.co.uk