Building design awards show off best of the Borders

A total of 26 entries were received for the awards, which is one of the longest running of local design awards in Scotland, having started in 1984.

The competition itself has been shortlisted for next month’s Scottish Awards for Quality in Planning, one of the Scottish Government’s most prestigious competitions.

Borders Building Design Awards 2018 winners:

New Build Residential winner – The Loan, Gattonside

The judges commented: “The contemporary design of this new house responds to its site context and takes advantage of the view towards the Eildon Hills on both levels. It uses a simple plan form in a sophisticated manner to take advantage of a unique site.”

Commendation – Singdean, Newcastleton

“The owner had a clear vision, entrepreneurial flair and passion for this new chalet building…the project aims to encourage visitors to come and stay in the Scottish Borders at an altitude of more than 1,000 feet with superb views,” the judges added.

New Build Non-residential winner – Broomlands Primary, Kelso

“There is a real wow factor in this design, which creates an inspiring place to learn.”

Commendation – Leader Valley School, Earlston

“A thoughtful design which has been careful to address the special needs of those who use the building. It is a good example of a building that has been developed in close collaboration with the end user to create a light and welcoming building.”

Placemaking and Regeneration winner - Stonefield, Hawick

“The project involved the redevelopment of the Stonefield estate which originally dates back to the 1960s. A real sense of place was established…the scheme has created a strong community feeling and pride.”

Works to Existing Buildings Residential winner – Fellowhills Farmhouse, Horndean

“Effectively a new house linked to the existing farmhouse with simple glazed link. The quality of the stonework in particular is of the highest order.”

Commendation – Danderhall, near Mertoun

“This is a sensitive small scale extension to an existing stone built cottage. The angled new gable allows for carefully framed and innovative internal views to the distant Eildon Hills.”

Works to Existing Buildings Commercial winner – Borders Distillery, Hawick

“This is an imaginative and sensitive conversion of an unused listed building which had previously been on the Buildings at Risk Register. It represents a bold vision and a significant investment which not only brings back the buildings into use but also makes a real contribution to the regeneration of Commercial Road.”

Councillor Tom Miers, Scottish Borders Council’s executive member for planning and environment, said: “The Borders Building Design Awards are so important to help recognise and improve the quality of building design across the region whether it is modern, innovative or traditional. It is also an ideal opportunity to bring planners, builders, architects, developers and other key figures in the industry together.

“We have a great heritage of buildings across the region, which are not only important from an aesthetic point of view but also to encourage people to live and invest in the Borders.

“Huge congratulations to all the winners and those commended, and thanks to all our sponsors for their support of the awards.”