If you've lived in Glasgow for any length of time, you will know of the genteel rivalry between the north and south sides of the Clyde. There is even talk of needing passports to cross the water.
Until she viewed her three-storey Victorian terraced townhouse in Strathbungo on the south side some 18 years ago, the owner was a dyed-in-the-wool west ender, but its space, flexibility and original features caused her to have a radical rethink.
After moving in to the five-bedroom property in Marywood Square, Strathbungo and the surrounding Shawlands area began to work their magic, as she discovered the area's cafés, delis, eateries and indie shops.
With eight apartments over three levels, this well-proportioned property is as sociable as the neighbourhood in which it sits. While period features such as sash-and-case windows, original marble fireplaces, woodwork, and delicately executed cornicing abound, the house also incorporates a subtle modernity.
Anchored by a proper Victorian staircase, the layout lends itself to both family living and home working, and the rooms can be changed to suit different functions depending on the routines and rituals of the owners.
The main family sitting room, dining room, full-sized kitchen and wet room are on the ground floor, while the garden level houses a relaxing TV room, study/office, guest bedroom, sizeable utility room, cloak room and shower/toilet.
The first floor is given over to a grandly proportioned master bedroom, refurbished family bathroom, two double bedrooms, plus bedroom four/dressing room. In contrast to the more neutral tones in the living spaces, the bedrooms are enlivened by applications of sunshine shades.
Unlike many period properties, the townhouse comes with generous storage, along with private attic space which is as yet undeveloped, but even the best properties should come with a sliver of potential.
Four years ago, the owner embarked on a gentle interior revamp, introducing a fresh palette of colours and materials which reinforce the light and views, as well as converting the butler's pantry on the ground floor into a sophisticated wet room. The result is a harmonious home, which allows for easy interior traffic and light flow. This gentle, unforced rhythm relies on delicate colours, simplified lines and lots of natural light.
The main sitting room on the ground floor is painted in a swansdown shade of white on grey which is warmed by the abundance of light flooding in through the windows.
The monochromatic palette is all about pleasingly plush materials in the curtains, rich window treatments and accessories in soft textiles. Classic black leather sofas sit comfortably alongside the original black marble fireplace, while a dove grey deep-pile carpet provides tactile underfoot luxury. It's a self-possessed room that needs little in the way of embellishment, but as elegant as the space is, it is also extremely comfortable and conducive to casual entertaining.
A cool white kitchen and more exotic gold formal dining room are sensibly and sociably positioned adjacent to one another. This is home that gathers people together, while giving everyone their own space.
During the refurbishment the owner discovered faded images of a family who may well have lived in the Marywood Square house early in the last century. Along with these mementoes, future owners will receive the title deeds, with details of everyone who has owned the property.
Located at the end of the square with generous on-street parking, the townhouse is approached via a gently sloping front garden. The garden grounds at the rear are imaginatively planted, plus there is a remotely controlled single garage accessible via a lane behind the property.
Strathbungo was originally developed as a crofters' and miners' village in the early 18th century, but by the end of the 19th century, more than 35 families were living in the village, and weaving had become the principal occupation.
With all this in walking distance of the shops and amenities of Pollokshaws Road and Kilmarnock Road, who could fail to be seduced by the beautiful south?
What: Handsome five-bedroom, late Victorian three-storey townhouse in an elegant sandstone terrace .
Where: Set in established private grounds in the heart of the sought-after conservation pocket of Strathbungo on Glasgow's south side, yet close to the city centre.
Price: Offers over £369,000.
Contact: Corum's Shawlands office on 0141 636 7588.
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