Midcentury modern house in Orrock, near Aberdeen, Scotland

I’m not sure of the exact year of construction, but this midcentury modern house in Orrock, near Aberdeen, Scotland, is quite a statement. And back on the market with a price drop.

It looks like it dates from the 1950s, possibly creeping into the early 1960s. However, based on feedback from the owner, it was actually constructed later. This was a self-build house and was finished at some point in the early 1970s. Not that it matters. If you want a stunning midcentury modern house in the country, then this is the house for you.

There is so much character here as well, much of which has been restored or added in by the current owner of the house.

The butterfly roof, the glazing, the stonework, the terrace, the single-storey layout, and, of course, all of those lovely period details are within. This is a house that jumps off the page. It has a great setting too, which is both rural but still accessible to the busier spaces of Aberdeen.

The city of Aberdeen is around 30 minutes away, and Aberdeen Airport is approximately 20 minutes by car. So, very much an accessible isolation. Oh yes, you can be on the beach within 10 minutes by car, too. Not something you would prioritise at this time of the year, but when summer comes, it really will be a bonus.

I could look at that architectural design all day because, quite honestly, we really don’t see enough of them today. Certainly not in this kind of original condition.

It isn’t just the outside that stands out, either. The interior of this midcentury modern house pretty much seals the deal as far as I’m concerned.

That internal stonework detail is the kind of thing you would expect to see in a US midcentury modern home rather than something in the UK. That fireplace immediately stops you in your tracks.

But there is so much more, The kitchen for example, with its vintage American cabinetry (you’ll have to check if that is staying), the wood-clad ceilings, the tiled floors, the perfect choice of light fittings, the natural light, original built-in storage and all of those little retro and vintage details, which are pretty much the cherry on top.

Did I mention the bathroom? I know a lot of people love vintage touches like this and if you do, the bathroom is something that might tip you over the edge. So much understated appeal. In a world of functional white bathrooms, this one shines bright.

As well as all that retro charm, the house also offers a good amount of living space as well. Yes, this is more than a pretty face. It’s also a characterful family home. Around 2,100 sq. ft. across that single storey.

The entrance is courtesy of a short flight of external steps, which lead into the central hallway and into the primary living space.

That area is described as a ‘warm and welcoming’ room and with carefully retained midcentury features boosting the character. Full-height glazing spans the length of the room, timber cladding lines the ceiling, slate tiles with electric underfloor heating runs underfoot, and the fireplace creates the centrepiece.

The kitchen and dining room are largely open plan, with that vintage American cabinetry adding in the ‘wow’ factor. A utility and pantry are just off it, with a workshop and garage also interconnected.

Plenty of bedrooms too. For in total, as well as the family bathroom in the westerly wing of the house.

Each bedroom has a ‘good provision’ of storage built into the original midcentury cabinetry and the main bedroom has pitched ceilings, along with far-reaching views and direct access to the garden.

In fact, let’s talk about the garden and other outside spaces. Spanning the length of the rear is a wide, south-facing cantilevered balcony leading down to gardens that are primarily lawn, with plant borders and a small shed.

A ‘densely planted, leafy’ front garden separates the house from the road, and the private front driveway provides off-street parking for two cars, as well as that garage.

Fancy it? The house has had a drop in price and also, since coming onto the market, has had full fibre broadband fitted. Which might add to the appeal if you can work from home. Originally £550,000 when it first went up for sale, this one is now up for offers over £320,000. That’s quite the drop.

As the weather gets warmer and the evenings longer, it’s the perfect time to check it out with a viewing, too.
Images and details courtesy of ASPC. For more details and to make an enquiry, please visit the website.
Pete murdoch on 16 December, 2021 11:37 pm
Built in 1972-1973. Self designed and built hy owner. Tiled glory in lounge is not initial. Bathroom is not original
Pete murdoch on 17 December, 2021 12:08 am
The exterior of the house and main internal structure remains as finished by owner / builder. Much of the internal character has changed. Originally finished with extensive use of oak and rosewood inbuilt cabinets etc.
Bob Harvey on 21 February, 2022 1:07 pm
I bought my 1949 Plymouth last year from the guy who lives in the house at Orrock. It’s amazing, but quite a way out of town.