Where is the best home in the north of Scotland?

Judges are considering three houses in the North of the country as the next contenders for Scotland’s Home of the Year.

Last night, BBC Scotland began the search for the special property in Central Scotland.

First up is a des res in Boat of Garten that’s brought together two old stone-built former steadings and linked them with a contemporary new-build addition.

Judges are impressed with the mix of old and new and, in particular the use of glass that makes the most of the stunning views of the Cairngorms national park beyond.

Also up for consideration is an ‘upside down’ eco-home in Findhorn, where the living quarters are on the top floor of the house and a painstakingly restored 16th century medieval castle, complete with secret passages, near Tain in Ross-shire.

Architect and university teacher Michael Angus, Glasgow-based interior designer Anna Campbell-Jones, and lifestyle blogger Kate Spiers must score each of them out of ten for functionality, distinctiveness and clever design, but only one can make it through to the final.

Episode two of Scotland’s Home of the Year can be seen on Wednesday 17 April on the BBC Scotland channel, from 8-8.30pm.