Building Maison Castanié | Journal

When we first walked into the steading at Milton of Crathes, it was empty, cold and unloved. But the feeling - well, that was something else. The light was glorious, the burn in December cold and moody, and the place felt magical, as though a spark of energy had jolted through the building. We could see everything it might become: the wood burner burning, the coffee machine purring, clothes lining the walls.

Over the past six months, we've painted every wall our own shade of Crème, every inch of woodwork our chosen Bleu Nuit, every last bit of masonry. We've scrubbed. We've de-spidered. We've had the building repointed, relocated one kitchen, built another downstairs, and installed a gorgeous tiled counter.

We've done it all while holding down a job (one of us, at least), running a small marketing consultancy, and keeping a home - with one full-time kiddo in tow and our eldest every other weekend. In between, we've sourced product, travelling to London, Paris, Aberdeen and the shire in search of the perfect things. We've built a brand and a whole world around it, launched our social media, created a website and e-commerce store, and crafted our own bespoke coffee blend with HAAR.

It's been hard. Really hard at times. It's pushed us to the edge, and seen us come home far too many nights tired and covered in blue oil paint. But the memories - and the thought of what's ahead, and what we're building for our family - are what kept us going. Hours throwing stones in the river and getting our feet wet. Evenings throwing the aeroplane around the courtyard. Sleepy naps on makeshift beds while mum and dad painted. And snacks - all the snacks.

We're so grateful to our friends, family, trades and suppliers for helping us get this far. You've made a dream come true.

Grant Christie - Ecojoinery (kitchen and counter)

Jadon Mcconnell - Sitka Studios (signage)

Amanda Christie - Grinn & Bear (graphic design)

James Daniels - CRE-ATE (website) 

Sam Brill - Photography

James McEwen - our absolute knight in shining armour

Our parents, sisters, brothers, aunties, uncles, partners and wider families - childcare, emotional support, and exceptional shelf painting

Our friends - our faithful cheerleaders and playdates

The local community - our friends at Leys Estate and their team of trades, all the lovely tenants (especially Kareen at Milton Art Gallery), and of course you: the friendly faces who've stopped by daily to check on our progress and ask when we'll open.

And finally, to all those who have inspired us, and Marc's Nana & Mum Alison who are sadly no longer with us,, without them this would have never been possible.

It's been a journey. It's been overwhelming. And most of all, it's been slower and more joyful than we ever expected. Here's how it came together.