‘I was in architectural heaven’ says judge as bungalow with very unique floor wins Scotland’s Home of the Year 2024
A SIXTIES bungalow with an unusual floor has scooped this year’s Home of the Year gong.
Judges branded the quirky property in Milngavie “bold, brave and unapologetic” as it won the sixth series of the popular BBC show.
And owner, mum-of-two Anna McClelland, admitted their family home is not for everyone as she was crowned 2024 champion.
Anna, who lives with partner Harry Kinloch, their kids Lexie, 11, and Marley, nine, said: “It’s very flattering to be named Scotland’s Home of the Year – especially considering some of the other homes involved.
“Our home is distinctive and unique because it’s like the inside of our heads and that’s also what makes it homely to us, but maybe not for lots of other people.
“ It’s been a really positive experience taking part in SHOTY. Apart from anything else, entering the show meant Harry had to finally finish doing DIY in the house.”
The couple – both Glasgow School of Art graduates – use their home as an outlet for their creativity, with the property using reclaimed materials like an old gym hall floor in several rooms.
Judges interior designers Anna Campbell-Jones and Banjo Beale and architect Danny Campbell – crowned the winner from a shortlist of six finalists found across Scotland.
Designer Anna Campbell Jones said: “This electrically, eclectic, creative home exemplifies what it means to truly make your home unique to you.
“It was fun and playful – an absolute dream family home to spark children’s imaginations and keep that same feeling alive in any adult who has the good fortune to experience it first-hand.”
Banjo Beale added: “Unlike any home I have ever stepped foot in, the 1960s Bungalow was a work of art and a living canvas for its creative owners.
“The home was bold, brave and unapologetically 100% them. The owners created this home just for themselves. When you walked in, you really got a sense of who they were.
“From the duct tape art to a smiling loo, it didn’t take itself too seriously. It is a home for big and little kids alike.
“I loved the art gallery wall in the extension. Bright and light, with a bold curation of really interesting contemporary art. The old gymnasium floor, ping pong table and wall mural made this space burst to life.”
Architect and lecturer Danny said the home was like a work of art.
He said: “This one had it all – there were double front and rear dormers, a split-level kitchen and reconfigured internal layout, a large rear extension and landscaped garden – I was in architectural heaven.
“The new spaces they created were elevated by the commitment they had to their vision and how expertly every detail had been turned into artwork.
“It was consistent, it was creative and it was clever – very memorable. We knew these homeowners would be fun to meet in person, they didn’t disappoint!”
For winners Anna and Harry, a real highlight was meeting the other finalists.
Anna added: “One of the best bits was the chance to see the other houses – they were all so different.”
The 2024 series visited 18 remarkable properties across the length and breadth of Scotland – and filming for the next series will start later this year.
For more information on how to enter head to bbc.co.uk/shoty
THE RUNNERS AND RIDERS
THE finalists for this year's competition were:
- QUINEY COTTAGE, Banchory (from episode one, North East & Northern Isles)
- 1960S BUNGALOW, Milngavie (from episode two, West Scotland)
- EARTH HOUSE, Aviemore (from episode three, Highlands & Islands)
- THE OLD MILL, Dublane (from episode four, Central Scotland)
- HONEYSUCKLE COTTAGE, Moffat (from episode five, South Scotland)
- COLDWATER, Linlithgow (from episode six, East Scotland)