Culorrin, Aultgowrie, Muir of Ord, Ross-Shire, IV6

Culorrin is in the hamlet of Aultgowrie close to Muir of Ord in Easter Ross. The property is in a beautiful, secluded setting, at the confluence of the River Orrin and Aultgowrie Burn and with stunning views over its own grounds.

The surrounding landscape is varied, from a network of single track roads passing through rich farmland set against a backdrop of majestic Ben Wyvis, to lush tree-lined river banks, grazing land and forests. The unspoilt countryside offers many opportunities for rural sport and recreation, as well as a habitat for native wildlife, while the west coast, famous for its spectacular coastline and sandy beaches, is under an hour’s drive away. A bridge and small drawbridge across the Aultgowrie Burn form part of a circular riverside walk within the grounds, while there are waymarked walks directly from the house including the beautiful River Orrin Falls walk and nearby is the magnificent, recently restored, Landmark Trust Fairburn Tower.

Muir of Ord, just four miles away, has a good range of facilities including a small supermarket, doctor’s surgery and train station. The local primary school is in Marybank, a five minute drive from the house, and secondary schooling, as well as further amenities, are available in Dingwall. Inverness has all the facilities of a modern city including its airport with regular flights to the south and Europe.

The current owners purchased the bare land at Culorrin over twenty years ago with the aim of designing a house which included traditional rural building features and construction materials, while incorporating contemporary elements. The result is an outstanding property where the Norwegian inspired clean lines of the exterior, clever use of symmetry, and deep foundations, along with a dry stone and timber finish create a house that is both striking and sits comfortably in its setting. The single storey accommodation has beautifully proportioned rooms including the impressive open plan sitting room, dining room, garden room and kitchen, its full height ceiling and extensive use of glass filling the room with natural light. There are high quality fittings throughout along with barrel-vaulted ceilings in the living areas and bedrooms and the understated finishes create a pleasing and restful interior to complement the stunning setting.

The excellence of design has been recognised in two prestigious awards given when the house was first completed:
Scottish Design Awards Northern Exposure Prize 2004/5
Saltire Award for Housing 2004/5

EPC Rating = D