A mother has spent £5,000 transforming her home into a Barbie-style 'Dreamhouse', complete with a pink slide, sparking fury among some locals. Nicole Watt, 27, decorated the exterior of her property in Carluke, Scotland, with a mannequin, palm tree, dressing table, and surfboard. The doll's palace, which took six months to plan, also features a pink disco ball, flamingos, and beach toys.
Nicole says she was inspired by her three daughters—Ariah, eight, and twins Aryn and Ayda, both five—who all love the toy figurines. 'I've got an older wee girl and she absolutely loves them, so this is like a dream,' she said. 'They don't want it to go down—they think they can invite their friends over and stay there.'
Most of the doll's house was built from wood, pink paint, and upcycled materials. Nicole estimates she spent a total of £5,000 to give her daughters a Barbie-style paradise. The home has become a local and online attraction, with dozens of people visiting to take pictures. However, while the decor has attracted hundreds of positive comments, some critics have been less impressed.
One local posted on social media: 'Imagine having to live across the road from that.' Another said: 'It is a bit much and probably cost a fortune.' A third added: 'That's a right state.'
Nicole, speaking on Monday, said: 'The girls' papa and gran made the house, the surfboards, pantries, lampposts and palm trees—everything Barbie requires.' She explained the Barbie-style Dreamhouse was created as part of the Carluke and District Gala Day. Work on the house was completed in three stages and even required scaffolding. However, the Barbie house is set to be taken down soon as Nicole waits for scaffolders to be available.
Nicole said the house went viral on TikTok and visitors from 'all over' have come to see it. 'There's been people travelling from all over to see it. I went out yesterday and there was a randomer in my garden taking pictures. They think it's amazing,' she said.
Locals on social media applauded the family's efforts. One said: 'This has been a lovely effort for her girls and the neighbourhood. Surely she doesn't have to take it down yet. It's so bright and cheerful.' A second added: 'This is bloody brilliant, so much fun.' Another commented: 'Oh wow, fantastic! Brilliant memories for the wee girls.' A fourth suggested it shouldn't be taken down: 'I don't think you should take it down. Why not keep it up after all the work and effort you all put in to it?'
