Loader Monteith embarked on the meticulous restoration of High Sunderland, a 1957 modernist landmark nestled in the Scottish Borders.
Originally designed by architect Peter Womersley for renowned textile designers Bernat and Margaret Klein, the home had suffered weather and fire damage in 2017, prompting the need for a sensitive and complex restoration.
The architects, in collaboration with their clients, saw the unfortunate incident as an opportunity to restore and enhance the Category A-listed woodland retreat to its original Womersley vision.
This involved not only repairing the damage but also incorporating invisible, sustainable upgrades to modernize the home while preserving its architectural integrity.
The house holds historical significance as Womersley’s first private residential commission, affectionately nicknamed ‘The See-Through House’ for its long glazed elevations. For Bernat and Margaret Klein, it was more than just a home; it was the epicenter of their professional and personal lives.
The couple built their careers, hosted fashion shows and exhibitions, and raised their family within the walls of this architectural gem.
In 2017, the house was sold for the first time, marking a new chapter in its storied history. However, during basic repairs, a small fire caused extensive structural damage.
Steel roof trusses, insulation, and original timber panelling were destroyed, while smoke damage affected the main living areas. Despite the setback, the new owners recognized the home’s significance and viewed themselves as custodians entrusted with its preservation.
Upon recommendation from Historic Environment Scotland, Loader Monteith, a Glasgow-based architectural practice renowned for conservation and sustainability-focused projects, was enlisted to undertake the extensive restoration project.
Led by conservation specialist Iain King, the team embarked on an intense period of damage appraisal and research to uncover the original construction details.
Through meticulous research, Loader Monteith unearthed construction details from a 1959 Swiss periodical, offering unique insights into Womersley’s original vision for the house.
Womersley and the Kleins envisioned High Sunderland as a harmonious integration with nature, and Loader Monteith aimed to honor this vision by incorporating modern environmental additions seamlessly into the structure.
To improve the thermal performance of the home, Loader Monteith installed insulation into a new warm roof, carefully studying Womersley’s other residential projects to ensure a sympathetic design.
An Air Source Heat Pump and wet underfloor heating system were discreetly integrated to provide efficient, low-carbon heating throughout the building.
Preservation of High Sunderland’s rich history and heritage was central to the restoration process. Loader Monteith meticulously preserved delicate details, such as brush strokes on cabinetry, which bore witness to the Kleins’ creative endeavors over the decades.
This commitment to preserving the home’s character exemplifies the delicate balance between conservation and renewal.
The restoration project presented numerous challenges for the architects, particularly concerning the preservation of the home’s original features while accommodating modern upgrades.
Loader Monteith demonstrated restraint, respect, and unparalleled care throughout the project, conserving wherever possible and replicating and camouflaging where necessary.
Photos by Dapple Photography
