The Mill House – A perfect blend of heritage and hope.
Frensham Mill, first shown on John Roque’s map of 1768, is an ancient site dating back to at least 1217. Brimming with history, the Granary has recently been lovingly and respectfully renovated as a sustainable renewable energy project, staying true to the mills functional history yet with an ingenious 21st century twist.
From the outset, maintaining the industrial ambience of the buildings heritage was of utmost priority whilst at the same time creating a sophisticated, comfortable living space with a hint of luxury, that was environmentally conscientious and self sustaining. Combining traditional methods and modern technologies, Frensham Mill is a flag ship project demonstrating how preserving our historical heritage, can also paradoxically lead the way for future sustainable living and energy production.
With this in mind Architects Ian Adam-Smith selected William Holland’s Cuprosa Bateau with tin interior as the centrepiece for the master bedroom, primarily for its creative fit, but also as an artistic piece of ‘quality and interest’ in its own right. The simple lines, classic style, recyclable materials, and nod to the industrial past, complimented the overall design concept and aesthetic perfectly, whilst the vibrant copper brought an extra dimension of warmth and glamour to the minimalist styling.
Now a private residence, comprising staff and guest accommodation, a wine cellar, gym and spa as well as a classic car garage, as much of the original fabric and atmosphere of the building as possible has been retained. Showcasing exposed brickwork, original timber beams, stone and wood flooring, with the industrial chic of the William Holland freestanding copper bath creating a nostalgic yet modern centrepiece, Ian Adam Smith have created a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary.
River bank, water meadow and fish passage migration routes have also all been part of the restoration, illustrating how renovations can enhance and rejuvenate the environment if approached from the right perspective. Combined with the buildings sustainable natural energy production, the Mill project shows how it is possible to blend industry with the natural world in a mutually beneficial partnership, and with time the natural beauty of the external renovations will once again match the beauty of the internal renovations in one perfect mix.
Frensham Mill is undoubtedly a classic example of how – in the right hands – concept, function and aesthetic can reflect each other in one perfectly packaged design, and William Holland are thrilled to have been a part of this.
