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BSPC FEATURE PROPERTY
Location is the key to an eco country home near Hawick The setting provided the inspiration for Arbourlaw House, Norman and Audrey Hawksey’s magnificent eco home in the village of Cavers near Hawick. Built in 2007 to the couple’s own design and specification, the four bedroomed house stands in the centre of a 15-acre site, ten of which are garden grounds (but could easily incorporate paddocks and stables), the remaining five woodland that incorporates a treehouse and children’s play park. In addition, this idyllic property is a haven for birds and wildlife and offers 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 240 sq metre layout incorporates free-flowing open-plan areas, spacious rooms, and countless different window styles to maximize the light and provide views from virtually every part of the house.” However, Arbourlaw is not only about aesthetics. The house’s eco credentials include a ground source heat pump, under-floor heating, solar panels, and a recessed wood-burning stove. Combined with exceptionally high levels of insulation, these features mean the monthly bill for 24-hour heating, hot water, cooking etc. averages a mere £116 per month, which is amazing for a home of this size.
“It also helps to have your own woodland and a ready supply of fuel for the stove,” Norman adds. “And although 15 acres might sound daunting, it’s actually very low maintenance. The wood looks after itself, a farmer takes care of a field, and the lawns are easily managed with a ride-on mower.” Decorated throughout in warm neutral cream/white shades complemented by oak floors and finishes, the interior is just as the couple intended – light, bright and very spacious. The ground floor layout includes a most attractive entrance porch and hall, off which is a large bathroom, sitting room with bay window (currently a music room but could also be a fourth bedroom).
A door in the hall opens into an enormous 47ft openplan kitchen/dining/living area and sun-room – in total there are two sets of French doors linking to the garden, while the living area and sun-room also have bay windows in addition to all the others. An oak staircase with carpeted treads leads up to a similarly impressive master bedroom suite with private balcony, separate dressing room and large bathroom complete with roll-top bath. Owing to the size of these rooms, the second bedroom has a bay windowed sitting area and is adjacent to a spacious shower room, which in turn can also be accessed by the third double bedroom.