The Georgian maisonette in Dumfries, owned by Fiona Lee and her husband Ben, is a strong contender for the Scotland’s Home of the Year 2025 title as the competition enters its penultimate week. The judges, Anna Campbell Jones, Banjo Beale, and Danny Campbell, have the difficult task of choosing from three properties: the Georgian maisonette in Dumfries, an extended Victorian semi-detached property in Dalbeattie, and a modernised U-shape home in Peebles. The Artful Townhouse, dating back to around 1820, was first inhabited by Dr.
William Maxwell, a friend and physician of the renowned Scottish poet Robert Burns. The couple have lived in the home for seven years and were initially attracted to its architecture and spacious rooms. One of the standout features is the spiral marble staircase with a cupola at the top, which floods the home with natural light.
The interior, described as “eclectic,” blends “east meets west and vintage” styles, reflecting Fiona’s time spent living in Asia. Fiona’s passion for art is evident throughout the home, much of her collection having been acquired while running the Kirkcudbright Art Tour.
scotland’s stylish maisonette contender
The living room area features high ceilings and is decorated in a maximalist style with green and grey armchairs and sofas. The blue walls are adorned with art pieces, and the floor is covered with a large Aztec print rug. The open-plan dining and kitchen area maintains the homely maximalism aesthetic, with art pieces on the walls and bustling cabinets filled with books, ornaments, and kitchen spices.
In the bathroom, countless paintings and drawings cover the walls. A luxurious black bathtub with gold taps and feet takes center stage, complemented by a fireplace, chest of drawers, and a gold antique mirror. Another dining area reflects Fiona’s characterful interior style, featuring blue and grey swirl-painted walls, wooden furniture, and another fireplace with a painting above the mantle.
The windows are framed by original wooden shutters that Fiona inherited when she bought the home. The unique blend of historical architecture and characterful interior design make the Artful Townhouse a strong contender for next week’s finale, which will be held at the House for An Art Lover in Glasgow.
