Historic Mill in Knighton Under Threat of Demolition due to Financial Hardships

Historic Mill in Knighton Under Threat of Demolition due to Financial Hardships

Refresh: A Modern Mill House in Cranborne Chase

Step into the charming 610-square-metre Knighton Mill, a masterpiece by Spratley & Partners nestled in the serene Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This property was born from the marriage of history and modernity, transforming an aged mill site into a stunning showcase of architectural mastery.

After numerous years of alterations, the original mill had lost its charm. The objective was clear: a building that honored the mill's aesthetic, infused with contemporary touches to optimize the new landscape designed by Andy Sturgeon.

Navigating the complexities of the cascading water flowing beneath the house was one of the significant engineering challenges. The glass wing, floating above the water, was achieved by supporting it on sleek concrete piles. A visually striking glass lobby at the main entrance links the house's traditional and modern wings, separated by a double-height wall made of knapped flint.

The placement of the new building enhances the sense of arrival, showcasing breathtaking views of open countryside and water features. To make this possible, a temporary coffer dam redirected the river during groundworks, and the river walls were carefully reconstructed. The south-facing position of the new mill takes advantage of optimal solar shading.

The main structure embraces tradition with materials like rough-cut sandstone, Bath Stone ashlar blocks, and handmade, red clay roof tiles, reminiscent of the original mill. The glass wing, marked by slim steel columns and clear glazing, disrupts minimalist visual interruptions. Large glass units, anchored to the structure with bespoke angle brackets, provide panoramic views of the picturesque landscape. To ensure protection against harmful sunlight, high-performance glass was employed, offering the perfect balance of solar protection, light transmission, and thermal insulation.

Future-proofing was integral to the project, with accessible and level entries, raised structures near the river designed to withstand flooding, an internal lift, a green roof on the glass wing, and integrated bat tiles and wildlife boxes in nearby trees, all contributing to local conservation efforts. The building ensures a low-carbon footprint, excellent thermal performance, and the smart use of locally-sourced materials.

Sam George, Partner at Spratley & Partners, reflects on the project: "Our aim was to create a home deeply rooted in its historic setting, yet welcoming the comforts and openness of modern living. Navigating the various elements while maintaining sensitivity to the landscape and waterways was a challenge, but the result is a home that respects its legacy and delivers a seamless connection with the breathtaking surroundings."

Beyond the Mill: Sustainable Architecture and Cranborne Chase

Sustainable architecture looks towards creating structures with minimal environmental impact, providing quality life for occupants. In the process, it considers factors like energy efficiency, water conservation, material selection, and waste reduction. Sustainable buildings often incorporate green technologies such as solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and high-efficiency insulation.

With its emphasis on traditional materials and contemporary glass design, the Knighton Mill project demonstrates an alignment with sustainable practices, potentially incorporating features like energy efficiency, water management, sustainable materials, and ecological restoration. These can contribute to a lower carbon footprint, improved thermal performance, and a more harmonious coexistence with the local environment in the picturesque Cranborne Chase setting.

1. The Knighton Mill, blending classic materials with contemporary design, serves as a testament to sustainable architecture, potentially integrating energy-efficient features, water management strategies, and eco-friendly materials, aiming for a reduced carbon footprint within the Cranborne Chase home-and-garden landscape.
2. Beyond the mill, the Cranborne Chase Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty inspires a focus on sustainable lifestyle, advocating for modern buildings that draw from traditional motifs, while maintaining eco-conscious standards such as reduced energy consumption, water conservation, mindful material selection, and waste minimization, ensuring a harmonious balance with the idyllic home-and-garden surroundings.

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