Brigsteer House

The building was an original 18th century corn mill with the mill pond still in existence to the rear.  Originally converted into a residential building in the early 1970’s, the building was cold, damp, and during the strip-out was revealed to be in a structurally-precarious state.

Aside from complete renovation, the other challenge was to waterproof a building constructed to let a stream run through it.  Hydrostatic pressure on the walls from groundwater led to the need for a membrane tanking system.  Once watertight, the building was brought up to the thermal standards of a new-build house.  The modern insulation has been complimented by a solar hot water system working in conjunction with an air-source heat pump.

Subtle contemporary additions include aluminium-clad windows and doors, and a steel and glass staircase.  These industrial-influenced additions co-exist beautifully against the preserved and retained visible heritage features, such as the grinding wheel re-purposed as a hearth; and the retention of exposed timbers.  The result is stunning and surprising.

This project was fascinating and the clients provided the dedication and resources to update and preserve this building for decades and we hope centuries to come.