Tag along to Scotland for a behind the scenes visit with award winning British interior designer Katharine Pooley at her 16th century castle. Built in 1560 by James Ogilvy, the 5th Lord of Airlie, Forter Castle burned down not quite a century later. Fast forward several hundred years when Katharine’s father, Robert, bought the property in 1988 subsequently spending several years painstakingly restoring it using local resources to honor its heritage. See how Katharine now oversees the legacy for her extended family and has continued to thoughtfully update it. You’ll learn how the designer has retained the authenticity of the castle’s history while incorporating contemporary creature comforts and luxurious furnishings. Hear how she has overcome hurdles in the renovation such as heat loss, noise and challenging staircases with elegant aesthetic choices that address both form and function. Watch as Katharine explains her clever solution for keeping bedrooms quiet, cozy and elegant and how she has made the spaces warm and welcoming despite their baronial proportions. And learn about the amazing ceiling in the expansive great hall that salutes both the castle’s significant Scottish history and artisanal excellence. Katharine’s passion for her Scottish home is palpable. She has, with her father, worked closely with Scottish Heritage to bring the structure from its sad state of disrepair to the modern yet authentic castle it is today. And Katharine has continued to transform the interiors, melding traditional Scottish country style with fresh yet appropriate furnishings, making it a very personal, comfortable, authentic home for her family and those who choose to stay at Forter Castle. Be sure to also check out Katharine’s chapter in Susanna’s and my book At Home in the English Countryside with Designers and their Dogs. You’ll be inspired, informed and entertained!! For more visit quintessenceblog.com
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