Coalition formed to save renowned designer's 'creative hub' near Selkirk

It's being described as one of Scotland’s most significant modernist buildings and a "creative hub" for a textile designer who gained international renown by designing collections here for many famous fashion houses, including Chanel and Dior.

A bid has been launched to buy the former studio of Serbian-born Bernat Klein, just off the A707 near Selkirk, ahead of it being put up for sale at auction next week.

A group set-up to protect his legacy following his death wants to save the A-listed building from ruin and create a new venue "to inspire creative arts in the Scottish Borders".

It has enlisted the support of the National Trust for Scotland and Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, which has launched a crowdfunding campaign to meet the £18,000 guide price.

Professor Alison Harley, Chair of Trustees, Bernat Klein Foundation, told Greatest Hits Radio: "We all want to see such an important building saved for future generations, and it's important we all rally around this important event to make it happen."

But she added: "The concern would be if it lay empty for another period of time, or potentially is bought by a new owner who allows that to happen, then the building will not be saved as it should be."

The A-listed structure, whch was designed in 1972 by renowned modernist architect Peter Womersley, is currently in a severely dilapidated state and has been on the Buildings at Risk Register since 2002.

A condition survey and structural assessment instructed by Scottish Borders Council in 2023 reveals a building with significant and myriad issues from its prolonged vacancy, water-damage, deterioration, and acts of vandalism.

It's estimated the full cost of restoration undertaken by specialists could cost upwards of £3 million.

Once complete, it's intended the building will provide a permanent base in the Scottish Borders for the Bernat Klein Foundation, whose creatively-led projects include exhibitions, workshops, and talks.

However, the partners behind the coalition bid revealed the initial priority is to secure ownership of the property and prevent further deterioration - with support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Professor Harley said: “Klein transformed the Scottish textile industry and the Borders weaving industry from its post-war doldrums.  His design philosophy influenced fashion, fine art, interiors and architecture.  Klein also leaves a vibrant archive to inspire generations.

"The Coalition believes that his studio should be returned to its original use, highlighting the important legacy of textile and design and creating an attraction to Scotland and the Scottish Borders."

But, with the site busy with viewings in recent days, there's expected to be a lot of interest in the studio, which is due to go to auction next Wednesday, July 30th.

Dr Samuel Gallacher, Director, Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, added: "Thinking to Scotland’s rich heritage of twentieth century architecture, much of which is at risk and is poorly adapted to our changing climate, this project can be an exemplar of how to save our modernist and brutalist buildings.”

For more on the bid and to donate click here.

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