Tuesday September 1st 2026
High Sunderland in Selkirk
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
The legacy left by a renowned Scottish Borders-based architect is to be at the heart of this weekend’s Doors Open Festival.
Some of the region’s most remarkable buildings will open to the public on Saturday the 5th and Sunday the 6th of September as part of the festival.
The 2026 programme is now available, with a special focus on the architectural legacy of Peter Womersley and the modernist buildings he designed in the Scottish Borders.
Highlights include High Sunderland, Womersley’s famous woodland home for textile artists Bernat and Margaret Klein in Selkirk; the nearby Bernat Klein Studio; and the cantilevered stand at Gala Fairydean Rovers’ Netherdale ground in Galashiels.
All three showcase Womersley’s distinctive style, combining bold structures, framed views, expressive materials and strong links to art and the landscape. Together, they offer an insight into the Borders’ post-war architectural history.
The festival also includes new venues that highlight how the region’s architecture continues to develop.
Several recent Scottish Borders Design Awards projects will feature, giving visitors the chance to see examples of new building, conservation, regeneration and creative reuse.
Other new additions include Port House in Jedburgh, Gunsgreen House in Eyemouth and the Monteith Mausoleum near Lilliardsedge, alongside a wider mix of familiar and lesser-known buildings across the region
Councillor Simon Mountford, SBC’s Executive Member for Planning and Community Assets, said: “Doors Open Days continues to give us these rare opportunities to step inside buildings we may pass frequently but never truly see.
“This year’s focus on Peter Womersley is particularly exciting. His buildings remind us that the architectural heritage of the Scottish Borders is far from just ancient and traditional, but also experimental, international and modern.
“We’re incredibly grateful to all the owners, organisations, volunteers and community groups involved. Their support and commitment make this festival possible every year.”
All participating venues in the Scottish Borders are free to visit, although advance booking may be required for certain tours and locations.
Doors Open Days is Scotland’s largest free celebration of places, history and stories. It forms part of European Heritage Days, a programme celebrated across the continent to encourage people to discover and engage with their shared cultural heritage.
Full details of Doors Open Days 2026 can be found on the SBC website www.scotborders.gov.uk/doorsopendays.
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