Heritage Coalition Secures Bernat Klein Studio in Historic Auction Win

A coalition of design and conservation charities has successfully acquired the Bernat Klein Studio, a notable modernist structure located near Selkirk in the Scottish Borders, during a highly competitive auction. The studio, which has remained unused and in a state of disrepair for over two decades, fetched a final auction price of £279,000 on July 30, 2025, significantly higher than its initial guide price of £18,000.

The acquisition was spearheaded by the National Trust for Scotland, which collaborated with other organizations to preserve this architectural gem designed by renowned architect Peter Womersley in 1972 for textile designer Bernat Klein. Known for his work with high-profile clients such as Coco Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent, Klein’s studio is regarded by conservationists as a jewel of late-modernist British architecture.

The building, rated Category A for preservation—Scotland's highest designation—had been listed on the at-risk register for over 20 years due to neglect. Auctioneers Savills reported that bidding escalated rapidly, with the final price reflecting a surge of interest that began with online and telephone bids. The total cost of the property, including VAT and additional fees, is estimated to reach approximately £336,700. The coalition is also responsible for paying land and buildings transaction tax, akin to stamp duty in Scotland.

Prof. Alison Harley, chair of the Bernat Klein Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, "We are delighted that after many years the future for Klein’s studio looks very bright." The coalition plans to undertake urgent repairs to stabilize the structure, including fixing its flat roof and assessing the condition of the concrete cladding. Dr. Samuel Gallacher, director of the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust, emphasized the extensive nature of the required restoration, which may cost up to £3 million.

The studio has suffered from years of neglect, resulting in significant deterioration. A burst water pipe caused severe internal damage, and numerous windows are shattered or boarded up. Presently, the building is encircled by security fencing and overgrown grounds, indicating its long-standing state of disrepair.

In response to the auction's outcome, the coalition has initiated a funding campaign, successfully raising £33,000 in donations, with the National Lottery Heritage Fund indicating potential support for restoration efforts. The coalition aims to reopen the studio as a permanent center for the Bernat Klein Foundation, facilitating exhibitions, workshops, and discussions focused on textiles and architecture.

The auction was not anticipated by the coalition, which had previously been negotiating a private purchase of the property. Savills, the auction house, declined to provide further comments on the sale. Notably, the friendship between Klein and Womersley extended beyond the studio; Womersley also designed the Klein family home, High Sunderland, adjacent to the studio in the late 1950s.

The future of the Bernat Klein Studio now appears promising under the stewardship of the coalition, which is determined to restore and preserve this significant piece of architectural heritage for future generations.