Take a look around the three North East properties in episode one of Scotland's Home of the Year

Scotland’s Home of the Year is back for a new series as the judges - interior designers Anna Campbell Jones and Banjo Beale along with architect Danny Campbell - go in search of outstanding homes across the country.

Danny Campbell, Anna Campbell Jones and Banjo Beale | IWC Media/BBC Scotland

They kick start their search with three unique properties from the North East and Northern Isles.

First up is Casa Barra near Inverurie – a contemporary self-build barn-style dwelling situated on the site of a family farm. Home to Maria, Craig and their two children, Violeta and Matias, Casa Barra fits in with the rural landscape, making the most of the impressive views which surround.

Craig and Maria, outside their home, Casa Barra | IWC Media

The design inspiration for the home combines Scottish country living with Maria’s Latin American roots. 

The open plan interior of Casa Barra | Michael Traill

Next up is Quiney Cottage in Banchory – a traditional farmhouse cottage, dating back to the 1860s. Home to Rachel and her cat Drizzy, the home is a postcard-perfect Scottish cottage bursting with personality.

Quiney Cottage in Banchory is owned by Rachel | IWC Media

Rachel stripped the property back to brick, restoring every room. Today, the two-bedroomed house incorporates her love of bold patterns, bright colours and second-hand furnishings.

Quiney Cottage has eclectic style | Michael Traill

The final home this week is a listed former farm dwelling in South Aberdeenshire. The 1840s Farmhouse is home to Gemma, Paul and their kids, Stefano and Sofia.

The farmhouse in South Aberdeenshire dates back to the 1840s | contributed

The couple have a hands-on approach to DIY and interiors and sourced the majority of the furniture second hand. Gemma immersed herself in video tutorials, learning how to tile, paint murals, wallpaper and tackle the plumbing.

The farmhouse features custom wall designs | contributed

Interior designer and Scotland's Home of the Year judge, Anna Campbell Jones, has a clear idea of what her judging criteria is: "What I’m looking for in a home is individuality, imagination and integrity and of course that most important ingredient…love.”

Isle of Mull based interior designer Banjo Beale adds: “I’m looking for homes that are packed full of character, packed full of personality and something that tells me about the characters that live there.”

While architect, Danny Campbell has his own take on what makes the perfect pad: " What I’m looking for in a home is an inventive use of space, with a deep connection to its site, delivered with such originality that I can’t help but feel inspired.”

Scoring them on architectural merit, distinctive design and personal style – Casa Barra, Quiney Cottage and the 1840s Farmhouse all hope they can represent the North East and the Northern Isles in the SHOTY grand final held at House for an Art Lover in Glasgow.

The episode focusing on the North East will be shown on BBC One Scotland on Monday 29 April at 8.30pm.