The castle, which is associated with the historic Douglas family, has been subject to much alteration throughout its life, including alterations in the 18th century and radical and extensive baronial overhaul in the late 19th century by Kinnear & Peddie Architects. Unfortunately, the financial strain of this work along with rapidly changing social and economic conditions saw the eventual demise of the castle and partial demolition in 1953.

The vision for Cavers Castle is to restore its existence as a stately home for the Sharrer family, and to make the historic grounds more accessible for visitors to the area via the existing core paths. The proposals seek to save the B-listed building, categorised as ‘at risk’, from falling into further ruin and provide a secure future for it in a way that is respectful to the historical character of the building and setting.

Working closely with Historic Environment Scotland and the local authority conservation officer, CSY Architects and its consultant team successfully negotiated the design of a dramatic intervention to the west façade where a contemporary, four-storey loggia with a castellated balustrade provides new residential accommodation. It is intended, in the interests of legibility and authenticity, that this new intervention is finished in lime harling to contrast with the coursed rubble and ashlar sandstone of the existing fabric.

Aligning heritage and sustainability is a key ambition for Cavers Castle, with CSY and the Sharrer family proposing a series of conservation-driven low carbon strategies. Retaining and repairing the existing stone walls and their associated embodied carbon, a breathable envelope of hemp and lime insulation encases the existing structure, improving the thermal performance whilst allowing moisture to pass freely through its rubble core walls.

In addition, suitable habitats for identified species such as barn owls and great crested newts have been identified and proposals put forward for enhancement to encourage biodiversity within the wider grounds.

Studies of historic documentation have informed a wider landscape strategy to reinstate the formal grounds which include the repair and re-planting of the walled garden, associated with the renowned Victorian botanist John Scott, and repair of a Georgian ha-ha.

The repair and proposed interventions to Cavers Castle presents one of the most ambitious, ongoing heritage projects in the Scottish Borders, and one that which Julie Sharrer and her family have been relishing since G&J Oliver W.S, completed the purchase on their behalf.

Julie Sharrer said: “This is our family passion project, and by undertaking a holistic conservation approach, we hope that the regeneration of this derelict, historic castle can contribute significantly to the wider cultural, historical and economic wellbeing of the area of Hawick, and the Scottish Borders as a whole.”