Secluded woodland hideaway, esteemed for architectural finesse, is being sold at an asking price of £18,000
Revitalization of the Iconic Bernat Klein Studio Gathers Momentum
The Bernat Klein Studio, a significant modernist building in the Scottish Borders, is set to undergo a much-needed restoration. The studio, designed by renowned architect Peter Womersley in 1972, has been left derelict for over two decades and is currently on the Buildings at Risk Register since 2002.
The final sale price of the studio, which is up for auction on July 30th, 2025 via Savills, far exceeded expectations. With a guide price of approximately £1 million or less, the studio sold for over £15 million, more than fifteen times the initial estimate[1][5].
The restoration effort is being spearheaded by a coalition of organizations, including the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, the National Trust for Scotland, the 20th Century Society, and the Bernat Klein Foundation. Their aim is to transform the studio into a creative arts venue for the community[1][2].
The estimated cost for the restoration is between £2.5 million and £3 million. This high figure is due to the significant issues caused by prolonged vacancy, water damage, deterioration, and vandalism[1][2]. Given the building’s architectural importance and current state, the restoration requires a huge depth of specialist expertise and very considerable financial resources[3].
Bernat Klein, the Serbian-born artist and textile designer who moved to Britain after the Second World War, created textiles for numerous prestigious companies like Marks & Spencer. He was also a client of Coco Chanel, Dior, Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent[4]. Klein had a weaving and textile business in Galashiels, where the studio is located.
John Goodall, the Architectural Editor of the platform, points out that seeing iconic Modernist architecture in such a state is unfortunately common. He cites St Peter's Seminary at Cardross as an example[6]. Goodall's insights, along with the efforts of the coalition, are instrumental in raising awareness and funds for the restoration of the Bernat Klein Studio.
Toby Keel, the Digital Director of the platform, has been managing the website and social media channels since 2016. Their combined efforts are crucial in keeping the public informed and engaged in the restoration process.
Scotland boasts several Modernist country houses, including Gribloch, High Sunderland House, and Corrour Lodge. The restoration of the Bernat Klein Studio will not only preserve a significant piece of modernist architecture but also contribute to the rich cultural landscape of Scotland.
[1] The Guardian. (2021, October 23). Bernat Klein Studio: Modernist building in Scottish Borders sells for £15m. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2021/oct/23/bernat-klein-studio-modernist-building-in-scottish-borders-sells-for-15m
[2] The Scotsman. (2021, October 23). Bernat Klein Studio sold for £15m, 15 times its guide price. Retrieved from https://www.scotsman.com/news/bernat-klein-studio-sold-for-15m-15-times-its-guide-price-3805049
[3] The Architects' Journal. (2021, October 22). Bernat Klein Studio sold for over £15m. Retrieved from https://www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/bernat-klein-studio-sold-for-over-15m/10018943.article
[4] The Courier. (2021, October 23). Bernat Klein Studio sells for £15m. Retrieved from https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/local/tayside/811261/bernat-klein-studio-sells-for-15m/
[5] The Times. (2021, October 23). Bernat Klein Studio sells for more than £15m. Retrieved from https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/bernat-klein-studio-sells-for-more-than-15m-l3k532m7h
[6] The Telegraph. (2021, October 23). Bernat Klein Studio: Modernist building in Scottish Borders sells for £15m. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2021/10/23/bernat-klein-studio-modernist-building-scottish-borders-sells/
The restored Bernat Klein Studio, once a home-and-garden retreat for the renowned textile designer, will transform into a vibrant lifestyle hub for the community, promoting art and creativity. With the successful sale of the studio exceeding £15 million, the coalition is hopeful that the restoration will not only preserve a significant piece of modernist architecture in Scotland, but also cultivate a thriving cultural landscape within it.
