Reimagining Cromlix with Kim Murray, Owner
12 February 2024
Offering a reimagined country house experience, Cromlix is full of Scottish charm, homely touches, and a place to be inspired by nature.
We spoke to owner Kim Murray about creating the hotel's new look, why Cromlix holds a special place in her heart, and exciting plans for the hotel's future...
What drew you to buying Cromlix, and becoming part of the hospitality industry?
Cromlix had been part of Andy’s family history for a number of years – his grandparents had their silver wedding anniversary here, and there’d been lots of other family events over the years. When the hotel was facing closure, Andy felt like he’d like to try to keep it open, partly because of his family ties, but also because it’s a great source of jobs to people in the local area. We now have over 70 employees working at the hotel.
I’m not sure Andy or I either set out to be part of the hospitality industry but it’s something we really enjoy now we’re part of it.
We’re a year on from Cromlix’s major renovation project – how did you find this process?
It was all consuming. I was up here a lot during 2023, and when I wasn’t, I was looking at fabric swatches, mood boards and room plans in my office at home. I was ready for a challenge though. I’d finished having children – four is enough! And knew I wanted to make my mark on Cromlix. I’d worked closely with Suzanne Garuda (the interior designer) on my own home interior so had some idea of what I was in for. She is brilliant though and makes the whole process much more manageable and fun than it otherwise could be.
What was the biggest source of inspiration when designing the hotel’s characterful interiors?
The Scottish countryside. We really love the outdoors as a family, so I wanted Cromlix to reflect that – we wanted to bring some of the outdoors in. Our colour palette uses colours you would see in nature in Scotland. We’ve used floral prints throughout on wallpapers and fabrics. All our rooms are named after flowers you’ll find on the estate. And even our new logo features the Virginia Creeper that climbs up the outside of the building.
Where is your favourite spot in the hotel or grounds?
That’s a tricky question. There are so many! I am particularly proud of how we’ve transformed the billiards room – it’s this really colourful, quirky space now. We put a bright blue baize on the table which really pops when you come in. There are some interesting pieces of art in here including some skulls carved out of snooker balls. And at the back of the room we have a pick n mix selection of sweets. So that’s probably my favourite spot – right by the pick n mix!
You have lots of exciting plans in the pipeline at Cromlix, what are you looking forward to most?
I’m really excited about the cabins which will be opening later this Summer. We have four eco-cabins being built around the Loch on the estate. They are one and two bedroom spaces, individually and sustainably designed, and they will be a lovely place to retreat to if you don’t want to stay in the hotel itself. Particularly if you want to get that bit closer to nature.
For a guest visiting you for the first time, what are 3 things they must do during their stay?
Borrow some wellies and take a walk along the mile long driveway to see if you can spot our family of red squirrels. Allow a good couple of hours to enjoy one of our famous afternoon teas in the beautiful calm of the drawing room. And, why not give pickleball a go – we’ve got our own pickleball court with rackets and balls to borrow.
Find out more about Cromlix, or plan your Scottish escape using our interactive map.
Portraits of Kim & Andy are credited to Verena Splett.
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