KEYS TO KNOW
antiquities and Monkton was a chance for him to express his knowledge. His eclectic taste is an exuberant journey through the centuries-old history of the house.
But it is by no means a museum, as Zoe also had her say. She explains: “I have three children and four grandchildren and my influence was to make it modern, comfortable and livable. A house has to run as a family home so it needs to be safe and comfortable.”
The ground floor retains the original old kitchen but, in contrast, a contemporary galley situated on the first floor has sleek cabinets topped with granite.
The garden, like the house, has been completely restored over the years.
The B-listed cottage opposite is a very pretty two-bedroomed home which would suit multi-generational family living.
Monkton is a special place which will be difficult to leave, but Zoe believes that they were only ever curators looking after it for future generations.
“I hope someone else will feel the same way. I’m sure some people will say ‘OMG, these loopy people’, but as Michael said: “When we come to sell, it is a coat of white paint to someone who doesn’t like it.”
Perish the thought. Category A-listed historic home with two-bed cottage in large mature grounds. Offers over £995,000, contact Savills on 0131-247 3738.