Keyneston House

Listed Watermill Restoration & Extension

Following a successful collaboration with Parterre Fragrances on the “Keyneston Barns Masterplan” DMW were commissioned to work on the restoration and enhancement of a 19th-century listed mill building and its adjacent courtyard. The primary goal was to restore and sensitively contemporise the property while preserving its historical significance. The design aimed to respect the building’s heritage while introducing residential improvements and creating additional space through a subtle extension and minimal interventions to the surrounding structures.

Project Director: Derek Williams

Project Leads: Sean Daly, Ryan Martin

Planning Consultant: Savills

Status: Planning Application Pending

The water mill’s machinery was 3D modelled in collaboration with a historic specialist, enabling precise restoration plans that preserved the mechanical integrity of the mill while adapting it to the residential setting.

A key feature of the project was a minimal glazed extension added to the mill. The design used slim-profile glazing, blending seamlessly with the original clay brickwork to expand living space while maintaining the building’s aesthetic integrity. The extension also allowed the addition of modern amenities without disturbing the historic fabric. The new extension was strategically placed to avoid flood-prone areas, offering additional space for the home while respecting the natural landscape.

As part of the project, planning permission was obtained to create two small holiday let units within the barn complex. This offered a sustainable and economically viable way to use the space while ensuring that the conservation efforts were maintained.

DMW played a pivotal role in developing a masterplan for the entire site. This plan not only included the restoration of the mill building but also addressed the surrounding courtyard, barn complex, and residential components. The design carefully considered the site’s historic value and worked to integrate the new additions with the existing structures.