A Scottish Luxury Staycation Like No Other
Blending rustic and industrial chic with Scotland’s very own brand of hygge and a big dollop of luxury, this self-catering cottage is cosy, warming and decadent. Most interestingly, it’s filled with a thoughtfully curated private collection of artworks by world-renowned, as well as upcoming artists. Sleeping up to six guests across three bedrooms (each with its own waterfall shower and one with a freestanding bath too), it’s the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy an unforgettable staycation with friends or family. But, with magical amenities making The Artist’s House an uber-romantic choice, it may be you want to keep it for two and check in with just your significant other.
Outside
As Jupiter Artland is an outdoor attraction, it follows that some serious attention to detail has gone into The Artist’s House grounds. The peachy-coloured single-storey cottage features a timber-clad porch and bright green railings, with a front garden akin to a peaceful wildflower meadow. Accessed via floor-to-ceiling warehouse-style French doors, the rear garden has a terrace boasting panoramic country views across to the Forth Bridges (the vista is especially beautiful when illuminated by night). A table and chairs with a Big Green Egg barbecue encourage guests to linger over an alfresco meal and soak up the epic sunsets. Then as the stars come out, why not make your way further into the garden, where a Swedish wood fire hot tub designed like a vintage-meet-futuristic tin bath awaits. Sheltered from the wind by trees and plants, it’s the very best way to while away an evening.
Inside
Walls clad with reclaimed wood, dramatic dark glossy floors, deeply cool decor, atmospheric lighting and sumptuous sofas await your arrival. The double-height open-plan living space is quite the showstopper and with a freestanding wood-burner, a well-stocked bookshelf and a collection of board games, you have every excuse to stay put. While the kitchen may be an interior design masterpiece combining old and new units, it’s also very functional, with everything you need to rustle up a feast (as well as a coffee machine for your morning caffeine).
Bedrooms in the cottage (two super-kings and a twin) have snuggly throws, retro Marshall radios, oversized colourful headboards and trendy furniture. Adding to the indulgent feel Aesop toiletries – naturally derived and organic – are supplied in every bathroom.
Jupiter Artland
The park covers over 100 acres and is found at Bonnington House Steadings, near Wilkieston. Comprising more than thirty site-specific sculptures and a large area of woodland, the grounds allow artists the freedom to create in spaces that break the boundaries of closeted galleries. As such, it has featured works from the likes of Tracey Emin, Grayson Perry, Antony Gormley and Anish Kapoor over the years. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to interact with and immerse in the art, rather than simply look at it. A perfect example of this – quite literal – immersion, is Joana Vasconcelos’s colourful Gateway, a permanent piece commissioned in 2019, that allows members of the public to bathe in the distinctive summertime swimming pool installation. Do request a bathing slot when booking into The Artist’s House – don’t worry, it’s fully heated!
X Muse Vodka
Created by Jupiter Artland X Muse is the first blended barley vodka inspired by the spirit-making traditions of Scotland. Drawn from the history and experience of Scottish spirit-making, heritage barleys and the purest water combine to produce a remarkable vodka of the richest, deepest character and qualities creating a new luxury spirit for the discerning drinker.
Influenced by art and ideas that transcend time, the bottle – by Stranger & Stranger – reflects one of Jupiter Artland’s commissions. By American theorist, architect and landscape artist Charles Jencks, the piece sits above the ancient water aquifer. The liquid from the distillation process rests on amethyst crystals – another link to Jupiter Artland, where British artist Anya Gallaccio’s amethyst grotto is on view.
Milan-based design studio Formafantasma, have developed an X MUSE Helicon tasting workshop with bespoke items including glassware, bottles, tableware, and containers for presenting the ingredients. These can be seen at Jupiter Artland’s permanent pavilion, where pre-bookable tasting workshops are held making a great experience to try out during a stay at The Artists House.
Just 30 minutes from Edinburgh
Children aged 12 and over are welcome at the super cool property. And canine guests are heartily encouraged, with a dog bed and treats provided on arrival. When staying at The Artist’s House, you’ll also receive a welcome pack and full access to the Artland, so you can take your time across your trip to absorb everything this innovative venue has to offer. It may be only 10 miles from Edinburgh, but you’ll certainly feel a world away from the capital in The Artist’s House.
Contact Details
Website: www.jupiterartland.org
Address: The Steadings, Bonnington House, Wilkieston, Edinburgh EH27 8BY