Scotland’s Home of the Year is back for its seventh season, captivating audiences with its unique blend of design and personal storytelling. The show, which airs on BBC1 Scotland and iPlayer, showcases a variety of homes across Scotland, judged by a panel that includes interior designer Anna Campbell-Jones, architect Danny Campbell, and designer Banjo Beale.
This season kicks off with a vibrant episode featuring three distinct properties: a colorful seaside conversion in Saltcoats, a grand Victorian villa in Helensburgh, and a charming sandstone bungalow in Giffnock. Each home tells a story, reflecting the personalities of their owners through innovative design and decor.
The first stop for the judges is the Seaside Conversion in Saltcoats, home to Tracey, Scott, and their three children, Alfie, Blossom, and Marley. This upper four-bedroom beachfront flat is described as deceptively traditional from the outside but bursts with color and creativity within. "Most of the planning and design was by Tracey," Scott proudly shared, adding humorously, "I was just sent to the shop to pick up the paint." The judges were impressed by Tracey’s confident style, with Campbell-Jones praising her "joie de vivre" as they explored the lively interiors.
Next, the judges head to the Victorian Villa in Helensburgh, which has been home to Shereen, William, and their family since 2017. This massive seven-bedroom property is filled with items collected during their travels, each piece holding a story. The judges were taken aback by the spaciousness and classical architecture as soon as they entered. "I do like a colonnade in one’s entranceway," Campbell-Jones remarked, showcasing her appreciation for the home's grandeur. The judges noted that the main bedroom could easily accommodate a billiard table, with Banjo joking that it was "every straight bloke’s dream."
The final contender is the Sandstone Bungalow in Giffnock, where Pamela, Gordon, their son Caleb, and Rosa the Irish Setter reside. This home represents a beautiful blend of old and new, preserving original 1930s details while updating the kitchen and living spaces for modern family life. The judges were particularly impressed by the authenticity of the features, with Banjo quipping about his years spent in closets to confirm their originality. "I know closets. I spent quite a few years in one. They are original," he stated, adding a touch of humor to the proceedings.
As the judges assessed each property, they focused on architectural merit, distinctive design, and personal style. Campbell-Jones emphasized that a winning home should be inspirational, atmospheric, and accessible, with the most crucial ingredient being love. "It should be inspirational, atmospheric and accessible but have that most important ingredient…love," she said. After careful consideration, all three judges awarded the Giffnock bungalow full marks, making it a tough standard for the other contestants to match.
Throughout the episode, Campbell-Jones, Beale, and Campbell maintained a light-hearted yet professional demeanor, showcasing their expertise while engaging with the unique stories behind each home. The judges, who have developed a strong rapport over the years, share a philosophy that transcends mere aesthetics; they believe that a home is not just a structure but a reflection of those who inhabit it.
"It’s a fundamental part of human nature to snoop about other people's homes and see how they live," Campbell-Jones remarked, highlighting the show's appeal. The competition has become a firm favorite among viewers, who eagerly tune in to witness the creativity and inspiration that each home offers.
As the series progresses, viewers can look forward to more breathtaking homes and the stories that accompany them. The grand final will take place at the House for an Art Lover in Glasgow, where the best of the best will be showcased. The combination of stunning architecture, innovative design, and heartfelt stories ensures that Scotland’s Home of the Year remains a beloved staple of television.
In the end, as Campbell-Jones, Beale, and Campbell continue to explore the diverse landscapes of Scottish homes, they remind us that our living spaces are extensions of ourselves, filled with memories, creativity, and, above all, love.
