We are amused by a touch of Victorian splendour; Period living

IT MAY look more like a building site just now than a set of upmarket west end conversions, but the developer has a strong reputation for quality and there's no doubt that numbers 36 and 38 Cleveden Drive, Glasgow, will turn out to be something pretty special once the refurbishment is completed towards the end of the year.

Developers The Burrell Company has a history of stylish projects to its credit, and plans to add to the list by creating eight apartments out of these adjoining B-listed houses. The interiors are to be completely remodelled to suit the demands of modern living but will retain all the features that make these Victorian homes so special. Imposing fireplaces, deep cornicing and rich wood finishes will all be preserved and even upgraded, where possible.

One of the most striking features of the conversions is that they will all be on two floors, helping to preserve the original spaciousness and substance of this elegant Victorian terrace. This type of home became fashionable in Glasgow in the late 19th century and is modelled on similar streets in London.

The central stairway in each house means that there is a minimum of shared wall space, which makes maintaining privacy as easy as possible. As these are fairly large-scale conversions, guaranteed to appeal to single people and families, this could be an important consideration.

The main hall has an unusually large amount of wood, including panelling to dado height, which makes it warm and elegant, added to by the grandeur of the staircase with its ornate balustrade. Along with the original tiled floor, leaded lights and cornicing, it makes for a magnificent entrance.

The kitchens will be fitted with new units and floor coverings as well as standard appliances. The bathrooms will have white suites, tiled shower areas, and painted timber lining to dado height. There will be also be gas central heating, a door entry system and sophisticated mains powered smoke detectors throughout the flats. Some buyers may even be able to choose their own colour schemes.

The Burrell Company was quick to recognise the strong demand among buyers in Glasgow for quality homes, close to the buzz and excitement of the bars, restaurants and shops of the west end but in quiet tree- lined locations which reflect the glories of Victorian architecture.

The company makes sure all its projects are thoroughly overhauled both inside and out. In other words, it offers period living without the worries about period plumbing. With all the old pipes and wiring taken care of, and clean fresh finishes to all the apartments, it only remains for the new owner to position the furniture, hang the pictures and open a bottle of wine.

Prices range from #239,000 to #269,000 and there are only four flats remaining.

For further information, contact Francis Gray on 0141-334 1084.

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THE Burrell Company is a design-led development with offices in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Over the past 18 years it has been responsible for a number of central urban projects, including many award-winning designs. As part of Glasgow 1999: UK City of Architecture and Design, the company was responsible for Homes for the Future

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