A few years ago, Carriden Developments managed an impressive feat – acquiring a plot of unsold land through sheer determination. With unwavering dedication, they transformed this land near Springfield in Fife into a collection of five striking new build homes.
Throughout this ambitious endeavor, the team at Carriden Developments worked tirelessly day and night. A caravan served as their humble abode on the site, as they dug the access road, operating a digger round the clock, taking brief reprieves only when exhaustion set in. With remarkable tenacity, they managed to complete and sell the first home, using the proceeds to fund the subsequent ones, paving the way for further success.
Three years ago, Carriden Developments expanded their vision, acquiring a field adjacent to a ruined steading at Beley Bridge, merely four miles outside the captivating town of St Andrews. The site’s allure lay in its close proximity to St Andrews while offering expansive gardens, a rare combination.
Within the eight-house development, each dwelling enjoys a generous plot, thoughtfully spaced from its neighbors, providing sweeping views over the fertile Fife farmlands that lead toward the sparkling sea. A touching tribute, McDougall House, the showhome, bears the name of the skilled joiner Rab McDougall, who contributed significantly to the project before passing away, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship.
Situated amidst a field, encircled by remnants of the stone steading and embraced by open farmland and a scattering of rural residences, these homes offer a tranquil sanctuary away from the bustle of city life. An access road, embodying tradition and resilience, winds its way from the B931, a testament to Carriden Developments’ unwavering spirit.
True to their ethos, the team at Carriden Developments actively participated in the creation of the access road, an echo of their resourcefulness in earlier ventures. While remaining deeply involved in the gardens and landscaping, they enlisted a skilled team of over 40 individuals to bring the Beley Bridge development to life.
A delightful visit during the first day of December revealed a heartwarming sight – the interior designer, Nadine Paton, had adorned the house with Christmas decorations, suffusing it with a cozy glow as twilight settled around. The impressive living room, featuring a full-height ceiling and a bank of Velux windows, serves as the centerpiece, exuding a sense of boundless space and light. The room thoughtfully splits into two distinct zones, one for TV viewing and the other for social gatherings.
Spread across two levels in an L-shaped layout, the five-bedroom house boasts sophistication and ample space. The fully-equipped kitchen accommodates a dining table and sofas, epitomizing open-plan living, with glazed doors leading gracefully to a patio in the back garden. The convenience of a utility room and a walk-in pantry completes the picture.
The upper landing bifurcates gracefully, leading to the largest guest bedroom, complete with built-in wardrobes and an en-suite shower room. Two additional double bedrooms grace this level, complemented by a well-appointed family bathroom. Finally, the master bedroom commands attention with its impressive dimensions, surpassing the size of most living rooms. The en-suite boasts a walk-in shower and a Velux window, while the dressing room features bespoke wardrobes and recessed lighting. Glass doors open to a Juliet balcony, inviting delightful views.
Reflecting the natural surroundings, the house features hand-cut stone walls sourced from the first development at Russell Mains Farm. Carriden Developments takes immense pride in the quality of their homes, evident in their recognition as a finalist in esteemed awards such as the Homes for Scotland awards, Scottish Home awards, and National Building and Construction awards.
The expansive L-shaped garden wraps around the house, basking in sunlight throughout the day. A delightful patio, complete with a hot tub, promises year-round enjoyment, while a concrete pad stands ready for the future addition of a shed.
With a focus on sustainability, McDougall House boasts exceptional insulation and relies on an air source heat pump for heating and hot water, embodying eco-consciousness and economic efficiency.
Notably, decorating the house has been a collaborative effort within the Carriden family. Their keen eye for detail and artistic flair is evident in every aspect, from color choices to furniture selections to the display of artwork. As the daughters show a burgeoning interest in architecture, the family legacy may extend to the next generation, promising a future of excellence.
