Page 10 BSPC FEATURE PROPERTY

Location is the key to an eco country home near Hawick

The setting provided the inspiration forArbourlaw House, Norman and AudreyHawksey’s magnificent eco home in thevillage of Cavers near Hawick.

Built in 2007 to the couple’s own design andspecification, the four bedroomed house stands inthe centre of a 15-acre site, ten of which are gardengrounds (but could easily incorporate paddocks andstables), the remaining five woodland that incorporatesa treehouse and children’s play park. In addition, thisidyllic property is a haven for birds and wildlife andoffers spectacular panoramic views in every direction.

“This setting is so special it took the lead in everything,including the design of the house,” explains Norman.“With the emphasis on views, light and space, the 240sq metre layout incorporates free-flowing open-planareas, spacious rooms, and countless different windowstyles to maximize the light and provide views fromvirtually every part of the house.”

However, Arbourlaw is not only about aesthetics. Thehouse’s eco credentials include a ground source heatpump, under-floor heating, solar panels, and a recessedwood-burning stove. Combined with exceptionally highlevels of insulation, these features mean the monthly billfor 24-hour heating, hot water, cooking etc. averages amere £116 per month, which is amazing for a home ofthis size.

“It also helps to have your own woodland and a readysupply of fuel for the stove,” Norman adds. “Andalthough 15 acres might sound daunting, it’s actually verylow maintenance. The wood looks after itself, a farmertakes care of a field, and the lawns are easily managedwith a ride-on mower.”

Decorated throughout in warm neutral cream/whiteshades complemented by oak floors and finishes, theinterior is just as the couple intended – light, bright andvery spacious. The ground floor layout includes a mostattractive entrance porch and hall, off which is a largebathroom, sitting room with bay window (currently amusic room but could also be a fourth bedroom).

A door in the hall opens into an enormous 47ft open-plan kitchen/dining/living area and sun-room – in totalthere are two sets of French doors linking to thegarden, while the living area and sun-room also havebay windows in addition to all the others.

An oak staircase with carpeted treads leads up to asimilarly impressive master bedroom suite with privatebalcony, separate dressing room and large bathroomcomplete with roll-top bath. Owing to the sizeof these rooms, the second bedroom has a baywindowed sitting area and is adjacent to a spaciousshower room, which in turn can also be accessed bythe third double bedroom.

BSPC FEATURE PROPERTY Page 11

which also includes a woodland and 15 acres of land

Features, too many to mention, include a well-equippedkitchen with Corian worktops, practical tile-effect flooring,and a full range of integrated appliances, including aninset induction hob and double oven/microwave. Off toone side is an equally smart and well-equipped utility/bootroom with excellent storage cupboards, fridge/freezer,washing machine, dishwasher and external access.

The grounds are truly stunning, incorporating landscapedgardens, a paved patio, tiered ponds and a waterfallfeature – and a woodland with lovely walks in addition toa playground and treehouse that would thrill any child.

Arbourlaw House is set well back off a private road,accessed by electrically operated gates that open on toa tree-lined drive leading to the house and detacheddouble garage.

Nearby Cavers (the name means ‘enclosure’) was partof the land gifted to ‘The Good’ Sir James Douglas byRobert the Bruce in 1320 – the former having beenBruce’s trusted lieutenant at the Battle of Bannockburnin 1314. Cavers remained in Douglas hands until 1975,when the once vast estates in Roxburghshire were puton the market.

Arbourlaw House, Cavers, Hawick, TD9 8LJ

Offers Around £550,000

Details on page 6