Felin Uchaf
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Mill front
Restoration of watermill and associated buildings (cornmill, kiln, house, cowshed/stable and cartshed) and partial conversion for domestic use
A group of derelict mill buildings were converted for domestic use, retaining and partially restoring milling machinery. The enigmatic stone ruins embodied past history, crying out to be rediscovered and revealed. The transition took place over more than 30 years, working closely with a local builder. Sustainability solutions included good insulation, locally sourced materials and appropriately simple design.
Sand for mortar was obtained from the river, stone from demolished buildings or local quarries and timber from adjacent woodlands. Conservation issues, including early use of pure lime mortar, were incorporated into the practice's work and led to a long-standing involvement with the SPAB.
The lack of electricity in all but one of the buildings (let rent-free to two artists in exchange for caretaking) emphasises the differences between day and night, thereby governing the pattern of life.The buildings have taken on a new life while continuing to blend with the landscape.
Data
- Begun: 1980
- Completed: Feb 2011
- Floor area: 380m2
- Sector: House
- Total cost: £200,000
- Procurement: Informal agreement with contractor
- Address: Felin Uchaf, Llanddeusant, Llangadog Carms, SA19 9UH, United Kingdom
Professional Team 
- Architect: Roger Mears Architects
- Client: Roger Mears and Joanie Speers
- Project manager: Roger Mears Architects
