The award is in recognition for the high quality of design which was built on the site of the former Lauder Primary School which had lain derelict since a new school had been built in 2009.

The judges said: “This modest development of social homes creates a strong streetscape to the back lane of the burgh. It successfully takes themes from the rear of the nearby burgage plots, especially the frontage gables, and the co-joined gable is a particularly strong element. Within the courtyard, the sense of place is enhanced by the controlled view to the countryside. Placemaking is aided by the selective use of whinstone and enlivened by the careful use of colour.”

This is not the first time the development has been lauded. The development of 12 three bedroomed homes was shortlisted for a Herald Property Award, and also received a ’Commended Award’ at the Homes for Scotland Awards in 2014 for its sympathetic design which includes the use of whinstone from the former school building as well as the date stone which has been incorporated as a feature.

The development consists of nine family homes for affordable rent and three for mid-market rent. This was the first time Eildon offered properties at mid-market rent and they have proved extremely popular.

The £1.67 million project was funded by a combination of contributions from the Scottish Government, Scottish Borders Council and Eildon Housing Association.

Nile Istephan, chief executive of Eildon Housing Association, said: “We are pleased to once again be recognised for the quality of the homes we provide. Old School Place is a great example of the work we take forward as the largest provider of new homes in the Scottish Borders. We have ambitious plans to accelerate our new build programme, meeting housing need across our communities and providing a continued valuable boost to our economy.”