Stunning architectural marvel concealed within a tranquil, forested glade is available for purchase at a price of £18,000.
In the heart of the Scottish Borders, nestled amidst a beautifully unspoilt woodland, lies the Bernat Klein Studio - an iconic example of Modernist architecture. Designed by the renowned architect Peter Womersley in 1972, this significant Modernist building was commissioned by textile designer Bernat Klein, who had moved into the world of high fashion by the early 1960s, working with clients such as Coco Chanel, Dior, Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent.
The studio, which reflects a distinctive architectural heritage, is influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater. By the early 2000s, the studio had been mostly derelict and decaying for two decades due to previous restoration efforts exceeding capabilities. However, by mid-2025, the studio found itself in a state of neglect and deterioration.
A coalition comprising the Bernat Klein Foundation, the National Trust for Scotland, the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, and the 20th Century Society, supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, launched efforts to acquire the building and carry out urgent emergency repairs to prevent further decay. The long-term goal is to restore the studio and convert it into a new venue for creative arts and community use in the Borders.
The restoration priority is to make the building watertight and halt deterioration before developing it into a design and community centre. While precise figures have not been published, there is an urgent fundraising appeal managed by the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust aimed at covering emergency repairs and eventually full restoration. The studio is up for auction via Savills on July 30th, 2025, with a guide price of £18,000.
The Bernat Klein Studio requires an estimated £2.5-3 million for repair and restoration. John Goodall, the architectural editor of the platform, emphasises the need for caution and expertise in taking on the studio's restoration, stating that Modernist architecture was not limited to cities and that it was also present in the countryside. He mentions three examples of Modernist country houses in Scotland: Gribloch (1930s), High Sunderland House (1950s), and Corrour Lodge (early 21st century).
Bernat Klein, the Serbian-born artist and textile designer, moved to Britain after the Second World War and settled in the Scottish Borders town of Galashiels. Here, he established a successful textile business and created textiles for companies including Marks & Spencer. The Bernat Klein Studio is not the only architectural gem in his portfolio; Womersley also designed High Sunderland, a nearby house for Klein’s family, also noted for its architectural importance.
As the restoration efforts progress, the Bernat Klein Studio stands as an important cultural effort to preserve an iconic piece of Scottish Modernist architectural and design heritage. Toby Keel, the Digital Director of the platform, manages the website and social media channels, providing updates on the restoration process. For more information and to support the fundraising appeal, visit the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust's website.
The Bernat Klein Studio, originally designed as a home and workplace, embodies a unique blend of lifestyle and home-and-garden aesthetics, as reflected in its woodland setting. Over time, it has transitioned into a symbol of Scottish Modernist architecture, with potential to become a venue for creative arts and community use, further integrating it into the local lifestyle.
