This Grade II Listed Building in Cornwall dates back to the early 1600’s when is was used as a Manorial Corn Mill.  During the years that followed, it’s use as a Mill continued and its size was increased.  From the late 19^th Century it was adapted so it could be used for the production of animal feed.  This continued until 1966 when the milling ceased, and the Mill was closed down.

We, Leslie Cornell Building Restoration Ltd, were engaged to undertake Historic Building Restoration and Renovation Works at this Grade II Listed former Mill in Cornwall, to enable its’ conversion into a residential dwelling.

The transformation of this 17th century former Mill into a home was filmed by Channel 4 to feature as an episode of  Grand Designs.

Our works commenced with the removal of all external vegetation and the careful removal of the non-breathable paint and non-breathable cement pointing applications to the existing stonework.  These initial works enabled us to better understand the condition of the substrate.

On completion of the first phase of our works, it became clear that this historic building in Cornwall required additional works to ensure its longevity; structural repairs, stone rebuilding and lintel replacements to name but a few.

Structural Repairs

With the stonework cleaned, it became apparent that there had been significant structural movement within this building which needed our attention.  Bulging and cracks within the stone walls were identified so we introduced a Helifix Helibar and Lateral Restraint System to restore the structural integrity of the building.

Stone Rebuilding

Deterioration of the existing pointing and bedding materials meant that some areas of the stone walls had failed and required rebuilding. This was achieved by removing these areas and rebuilding the stonework using a Lime mortar bedding.

Lintel Replacement

Upon closer inspection it was clear that the lintels above the windows and doors had decayed. After appropriately propping the areas identified, we removed the rotten lintels and replaced them with new Green Oak lintels to ensure the integrity was maintained for load-bearing purposes.

Additional windows and a door were required in areas of the building. To accommodate this request, we introduced new openings in the walls in readiness for extra windows and a new door to be installed.

Our works then continued with the introduction of Lime pointing and new Slate window sills.

Lime Pointing

The use of Lime on traditionally built walls ensures that the breathability of the building is maintained.  Using a suitable Lime mortar, we repointed the appropriately raked out joints of the cleaned stonework.

Window Sills

The existing window sills were either non-existent or inadequate for their purpose.  We removed any existing window sills and replaced them with new Slate sills and introduced new where the existing ones were missing.  Appropriately functioning window sills ensure that excess rainwater run off is directed away from the walls.

We are extremely proud of the restoration works we undertook on this Historic Grade II Listed Mill in Cornwall, and to see this project in all its glory on Grand Designs was worth all of our work and determination during the restoration of this wonderful property.