Esh Border Construction was asked to transform the East Lothian facility prior to Gullane being named host of the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open Championship for the first time.

Played across the classic links turf at Gullane, the tournament, held in July, was also the first European Tour event to be staged at the venue.

Work on the £1.4 million renovation and extension project began in April last year, and the construction specialist pulled out the stops to ensure it was completed by using skilled resources from its Earlston and Livingston bases.

The new look high specification clubhouse aligns Gullane’s proud 133 year golfing heritage with a modern, innovative space, which matches dynamic design with high energy efficiency.

John Moore, construction director for Esh Border Construction, said: “We have been really excited to be involved in this landmark project and relished the challenge of meeting Gullane Golf Club’s high expectations as it prepared for one of the biggest events in its history.

“Esh Border Construction has worked closely with the club to ensure that its rich traditions have been upheld as we’ve aimed to fully realise a forward-thinking design that reflects its future ambitions.

“We encountered some relatively complex challenges in integrating the original structure with the new design, including the use of timber frame construction to extend the accommodation on top of the traditionally constructed original structure. However, we’re pleased to say these challenges were overcome.

“Gullane enjoys stunning links on which to create a championship course, and we believe that its new clubhouse was more than worthy of the standout event that was the Scottish Open as it followed in the prestigious footsteps of the likes of Loch Lomond and Gleneagles.

“We also believe that the upgraded clubhouse will provide the club with an exceptional centrepiece for years to come that we are certain will facilitate further successes for the club.”

The original clubhouse was a series of smaller rooms and its facilities were no longer fit-for-purpose.

Now a larger, light and open central space greets those entering the building, with folding partitions providing a flexible showcase setting for gatherings, meetings and dining in the upper areas.

A modern new kitchen - a substantial increase on the size of the original - has significantly enhanced dining capacity for events. Management and administration areas also benefit from the more efficient use of space.

A new boiler system has been matched by excellent insulation and double glazing, producing significant energy savings, while a lift provides clubhouse access to all.

Among its other notable features are two modern bars and vanity units that were carefully manufactured and installed by Esh Border Construction’s in-house joinery division.

The club is now busy getting to know the building, and establishing new working procedures around the facility. It has also integrated new security, data, and communications systems into the existing infrastructure.

Esh Border Construction has firmly established its place in Scotland with a clutch of new business wins and the opening of a new regional office in Livingston.

It was recently named the appointed contractor on Historic Scotland’s prestigious £8.9m Engine Shed project in Forthside, Stirling.