Discover how a couple transformed their cottage into a winning home on Skye.
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From uncertainty to triumph: The story of An Cala
When Caroline McQuistin and her partner Lee Duncan learned that their charming cottage, An Cala, had made it to the final of Scotland’s Home of the Year, emotions ran high. Caroline, a professional photographer, was overwhelmed with joy and disbelief.
She had convinced herself that their last-minute DIY efforts had ruined their chances of winning. Just a day before the judges arrived, she had painted a wall with the wrong color, fearing it would jeopardize their chances. However, the couple’s unique style and hard work shone through, leading them to victory.
A fixer-upper with character
Caroline and Lee, who moved to Skye three years ago, found their “fixer-upper” cottage after a period of renting on the mainland. The couple, originally from Stranraer and Fife, were thrilled to find a home within their budget, despite its need for extensive cosmetic work. The renovation journey began with the daunting task of stripping away layers of textured wallpaper. Caroline, however, surprised herself by reintroducing wallpaper to maintain the home’s old-world charm. She aimed to create a warm, earthy ambiance that would reflect their personalities.
Artistic touches that tell a story
One of the standout features of An Cala is the couple’s carefully curated collection of paintings and objects displayed on the walls. Each piece holds sentimental value, from family heirlooms to personal creations. Caroline shared that her late grandmother, an artist, inspired her artistic style, which includes gold frames and rich oil paintings. The couple’s love for music is also evident, with a fiddle and a banjo displayed prominently, symbolizing their shared interests and experiences. This personal touch resonated with the judges, who appreciated the depth and character of the home.
Judges’ praise and the final showdown
As the competition progressed, Caroline and Lee’s home caught the attention of the judges, particularly Anna Campbell-Jones, who praised the magnificent mountain location and the cottage’s curated aesthetic. The judges noted the impact of color and design choices, with Banjo Beale describing An Cala as “a dose of sunshine on a rainy Skye day.” Danny Campbell highlighted the home’s simplicity and the thoughtful styling that embraced imperfections, which added to its charm. Ultimately, An Cala triumphed over other contenders, securing a place in the grand final with an impressive score of 29.
A community of competitors
Beyond the competition, Caroline and Lee formed lasting friendships with their fellow contestants. They created a group chat to stay connected, sharing their experiences as the episodes aired on television. The camaraderie and shared passion for home design made the journey enjoyable, regardless of the competition’s outcome. Caroline reflected on the experience, stating that winning was a cherry on top of an already fun adventure.
Looking ahead: The grand final
With their victory in the heat, Caroline and Lee are now set to represent the Highlands and Islands in the grand final of Scotland’s Home of the Year. The anticipation is palpable as they prepare to showcase their beloved An Cala on a larger stage. Their journey from uncertainty to triumph serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of creativity, hard work, and the importance of making a house a home.
