Scotland's Home of the Year: Rhu couple to feature in BBC One show

Rhu Boathouse is one of three houses which will compete in Monday night’s episode of the BBC One Scotland show, which will be looking for a finalist from the west of Scotland.

Home of the Year

Originally a naval officer’s lodgings, the 150-year-old house is now home to Patricia Rodi and Patrick Phillips, and their dog, Alva.

The home was selected for the show after it caught the attention of BBC producers on Instagram.

Home of the Year

Patricia said: “I run an account where I essentially document my slow approach to life and the renovation of our house.

“This is the first time we time we have renovated a property. We lived in Glasgow for seven years and then decided that we wanted to try get a house and get out of the city.

Patricia and Patrick live in Rhu with their dog, Alva

“We also wanted to buy a property that we could really make our own.”

The home’s decor and warm yet muted tones replicate Patricia’s “slow approach to life”, with antiques, upcycled pieces, and sentimental items featuring throughout.

Home of the Year

She added: “I think that there’s such a culture to buy new stuff all the time; everything is supposed to be new and fast.

“Both me and Patrick are really interested in antiques and old buildings, so we wanted to breathe some new but old life into this property.

Home of the Year

“Because it’s a character property, we wanted to give it back its original features.

“For us, it’s important not to participate in this fast-spending culture, so that’s why we were interested in restoring and upcycling.”

Home of the Year

Rhu Boathouse will go up against Knockbuckle House in Kilmacolm and Craigend Farm near East Kilbride on Monday at 8.30pm, with the couple hoping to be one of nine finalists.