Fen Mill: how good design improves everyday living

Fen Mill - Exterior View

With planning permission granted and building control conditionally approved, Fen Mill is now ready to go to site.

This sustainable self-build in rural Suffolk takes a contemporary approach to its setting. Rather than trying to make the new extension look traditional, the design takes indications from the agricultural buildings found in the surrounding countryside. The project combines the existing mill with a modern extension, creating more space while making the most of the home’s rural setting. The existing building will also be upgraded to improve its thermal performance while keeping its original character.

A key part of the design is making the home more comfortable to live in. More natural light, better insulation and a stronger connection to the garden will help turn what was a darker, more enclosed home into a lighter and more enjoyable space.

Fen Mill - Kitchen Dining Room

Natural materials, lower impact and better air quality

The materials and systems used at Fen Mill have been chosen to make the home comfortable and practical, while also keeping sustainability in mind. Natural materials bring warmth and texture to the interiors. They work well alongside the existing character of the mill and help create spaces that feel relaxed and comfortable without being overly finished. Lower embodied carbon has also been considered when choosing materials and improving the existing building. Reusing what is already there, alongside carefully selected materials, helps reduce the overall impact of the project.

The home also uses Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) to provide a steady supply of fresh, filtered air. The system recovers heat from the air leaving the building, helping to improve energy efficiency while keeping the interior well ventilated and filtering out pollutants.

Fen Mill - Sun Room

A sensitive approach to a historic building
All of these elements come together to create a considered extension to the historic mill building. The design keeps the character of the existing building while introducing a simple, contemporary addition that works alongside it.

The original structure is retained and carefully updated, with the new extension providing the extra space needed for modern family life. A glazed link helps connect the old and new parts of the building, while keeping a clear distinction between them.

Fen Mill - Exterior Approach