Wednesday January 14th 2026
Torwoodlee House, Galashiels
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Plans have been revealed for an upgrade to a Georgian mansion in a bid to make it fit for 21st century living.
Torwoodlee House in Galashiels has been home for generations of the Pringle family.
Built in 1783 by the 9th Laird of Torwoodlee, replacing the older tower house for a more modern, grander residence as times became more peaceful in the Borders, it later saw Victorian alterations.
Now the current owner, James Pringle, has submitted a listed building planning application to Scottish Borders Council for alterations and reinstatement of the building’s East Wing.
Over recent decades improvement works have been carried out throughout the house but the East Wing has remained largely untouched.
The West Wing was renovated in 2009 to 2011 to bring it up to the standards of modern living by way of sensitive upgrades to the building fabric, which improved its sustainability.
The proposed works would include removal of internal partitions to enlarge existing living space, and moving both the kitchen and ground floor bathroom, while adding a first floor shower room.
Several fabric alterations proposed include replacement of windows and slate roof.
A report in support of the application, from Gray Macpherson Architects, states: “The East Wing historically had ancillary rooms to the Main House such as washing house and dairy, laundry and larders.
“In the mid 20th century it was modified to create self-contained accommodation which was still linked to the house. This included its own kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living room.
“The East Wing has remained relatively untouched externally, though it has undergone several internal alterations over the years to accommodate the needs at the time.
“Many of the original features are still in good condition, including the stone parapet gutters, and carved stone features. The leadwork has reached the end of its life and needs replaced.
“The interior requires some careful alteration to upgrade it to modern living standards and improve its sustainability, similar to that of the West Wing. This area has not been recently occupied.
“This is an important building that Gray Macpherson Architects and our client are fully committed to preserving.
“Through extensive research into the building and its architectural heritage, we have an understanding of the care that must be taken in carrying out these works.
“The proposed external alterations are crucial to our aim of carefully upgrading the building fabric for modern living. The works will be carried out by a high-quality contractor who demonstrates excellent experience in conservation work and these will be carefully supervised throughout.
“The proposed internal alterations have minimal impact on the historic significance of the building, however they will make a positive impact on the performance and practicality of the building.
“We are confident that the proposed alterations will transform the building into a comfortable, sustainable and welcoming home, fit for 21st century living.
“This vision is critical for the long term interest and safeguarding of the East Wing.”
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