A striking home near Pitmedden, Aberdeenshire, has just been crowned the 2025 Scottish Home of the Year. Hilltop House, a stylish conversion on a farm steading, wowed judges with its vibrant design and connection to nature.
The owners, Jessica Zanoni and Chris Labrooy, have created a living space that feels personal yet architecturally daring — a true sanctuary that balances mid-century flair with a laid-back Californian vibe.
From Ruin to Radiance: The Story Behind Hilltop House
When Jessica first spotted the plot, it was nothing but a crumbling farm steading. She remembers going alone to see the place and instantly feeling drawn to it. “The view grabbed me,” she says. That feeling was enough to get Chris on board, and together they imagined a home that would embrace the surrounding landscape while reflecting their artistic roots.
The house was rebuilt using the original footprint of the farm buildings. It blends old and new in a way that’s refreshing, yet comforting. The exterior’s blonde stone walls and large, arched windows allow natural light to flood in, especially from the east-facing gable — a spot the family loves for its breathtaking sunrises.
Jessica calls the living room her favorite space. “It’s where you feel the house’s heart,” she explains. The sunrise from the gable window is a daily gift, casting changing hues across the interior. For her, the outside view is like a living artwork, shaping the mood inside the home every day.
Chris is equally smitten by the home’s character. “I’m up before 6am just to soak in those sunrises,” he says with a smile. Working from home, he treasures the quality of light that fills the rooms all day long. “It’s an easy-going place to live,” he adds.
Bold Colors and Sustainable Choices Define the Interior
Inside, Hilltop House bursts with color and personality. The couple, both running an art business, carefully selected furniture and décor that mix playful energy with elegance. Think bright yellow sofas, pastel pink bathrooms, and artwork that feels like it could jump off the walls.
The design is rooted in sustainability, with the family choosing pieces built to last decades rather than quick trends. Their love of nature and lasting craftsmanship shines through every corner.
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Bright hues dominate living spaces.
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Mid-century modern meets a fresh California vibe.
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Sustainable materials were prioritized.
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Personal art pieces add meaning to every room.
The house feels alive, like a gallery you’d want to live in, not just visit. It’s no wonder the judges praised the home for being “perfect in every way,” yet genuinely warm and lived in.
Judges Praise Hilltop House’s Personality and Design
The panel of judges for Scotland’s Home of the Year included architect Danny Campbell and interior designers Anna Campbell-Jones and Banjo Beale. They chose Hilltop House from a tough shortlist of six finalists, each with their own distinct style.
Anna Campbell-Jones said the home was “perfect in every way” while still feeling like a genuine family space. She admired how the owners’ artistic flair was visible throughout — the colors, the furniture choices — all blending “playfulness and sophistication.”
Banjo Beale from Mull described it as “an artful sanctuary,” quiet yet charismatic, with every corner telling a story.
Danny Campbell highlighted the home’s architectural ambition. “Every corner feels considered, every material honest, every space deliberate.” He was particularly impressed by how well the house’s design reflected the people living there — a rare feat for a conversion project.
The judges clearly appreciated the balance the couple struck: a home full of character, warmth, and design courage.
Other Finalists Showcased Scotland’s Diverse Housing Styles
Hilltop House was selected from 18 exceptional homes visited during this year’s series. The other finalists included:
| Finalist Name | Location | Style Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sandstone Bungalow | Giffnock | Traditional with modern touches |
| Wee City Nook | Edinburgh | Compact urban retreat |
| The Tree House | Broughty Ferry | Elevated, nature-integrated home |
| An Cala Cottage | Skye | Cozy island living |
| Craigmount | Dalbeattie | Contemporary countryside dwelling |
Danny Campbell called this year’s lineup “outrageously good,” praising the fearless ways homeowners made their spaces truly unique. The mix ranged from bold conversions to quirky self-builds, showing a trend toward deeply personal homes across Scotland.
A Community of Creators: The Finalists Connect Beyond the Competition
One of the highlights for Jessica and Chris was meeting the other finalists at Glasgow’s House for an Art Lover — the iconic venue designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh. They shared ideas, experiences, and even keep in touch through a WhatsApp group.
“It was great chatting with people who had poured their hearts into their homes,” Jessica said. “Building, designing, and filming the show felt like a shared adventure.”
The winners’ plaque, a black circle with gold lettering, now proudly sits in Hilltop House’s kitchen — a constant reminder of their passion and achievement.
As Scotland’s Home of the Year series gears up for its eighth season, it’s clear the bar has been raised. More than ever, homeowners are making spaces that are not just beautiful, but deeply personal and full of life
