Renters have the opportunity to take up residence at one of the most unusual and distinctive properties to appear on the rental market, thanks to the National Trust for Scotland.
The conservation charity is now looking for tenants for its converted and conserved traditional mud building in Logie, Angus.
Logie Schoolhouse has been painstakingly restored as part of a project by the charity’s Little Houses Improvement Scheme and converted into a beautiful one bedroom home. The project received funding from Historic Scotland, the Scottish Government and Angus Council.
The schoolhouse, which dates from the 19th century, is one of the most complete surviving examples of mudwall buildings in Scotland. In the past it was used as a school and a church. It fell into disrepair and was ear-marked for demolition. However, after it was brought to their attention by a neighbour and the Community Council, Angus Council realised the importance of conserving this unusual building and developed a proposal to save it from demolition.
Conservation experts have now completed the painstaking process to restore the building to its former glory, both inside and out and are offering the property for rental, at a monthly cost of £350.
Buildings made from mud and clay were found across parts of the Angus and Kirriemuir area in the 19th century, but few remain.
Siân Loftus, Little Houses Improvement Scheme Manager said:
“This has been a fascinating project to be involved in. Seeing the building transform from a derelict building to a lovely home has been fantastic. The building is now ready to receive its first tenants and will become an important addition to the housing market in rural Angus.”
At Logie Schoolhouse the mudwalls are structural, though the material is concealed for the most part behind a protective lime harl finish externally and plaster and panelling internally.
Inside, the early decorative schemes have been reinstated, with traditional limewashes in warm colours in the main building and the mid-twentieth century colour scheme in the porch extension, making this a cosy, if unusual, home.
The house comprises a large open plan living, dining and kitchen area, one double bedroom, a bathroom, cloakroom and utility room. There is also a small garden area.
In line with the grant conditions of Scottish Government funding, the property is to provide affordable housing in the rural area. Prospective tenants should be employed or have a formal offer of employment in the local area (within a 10 mile radius of the Craigo) and be on low or modest income. Applications will be considered from people who are not in employment on the grounds of age or health. Such applicants will have lived in the area for more than one year or have family resident in the area.
Anyone interested in renting the property should contact:
John Hepburn-Wright
Manager, Commercial & Residential Properties
01463 732637
jhepburnwright@nts.org.uk
The property is open for viewing on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 September from 12.30- 17.00. Anyone interested in attending should congregate at House of Dun, Montrose, where regular shuttle buses will provide transport to Logie.