The Renovation
Four years. 350 years of history. One extraordinary transformation.
Hole Mill was discovered as a derelict ruin — a 350-year-old Devon water mill that had sat untouched for decades. What followed was a meticulous four-year renovation, combining historic preservation with contemporary design, to create one of the most exceptional holiday retreats in the South West.
2020
The Beginning
Ian discovers Hole Mill — a derelict 350-year-old water mill in a hidden valley outside Branscombe, Devon. Despite being in a state of complete disrepair, the bones of the building and the extraordinary setting make it impossible to walk away from.
2020
The Beginning
Ian discovers Hole Mill — a derelict 350-year-old water mill in a hidden valley outside Branscombe, Devon. Despite being in a state of complete disrepair, the bones of the building and the extraordinary setting make it impossible to walk away from.
2021
Structural Works
The major structural work begins. Original flint stone walls are restored with lime pointing, preserving the character and breathability of the historic fabric. New foundations laid for the modern extension.
2021
Structural Works
The major structural work begins. Original flint stone walls are restored with lime pointing, preserving the character and breathability of the historic fabric. New foundations laid for the modern extension.
2022
The Extension
A contemporary glass-roofed extension is added, connecting the original mill to a new wing. The design carefully bridges the old and new — Douglas fir flooring runs throughout, and the dining area sits under an impressive glass ceiling.
2022
The Extension
A contemporary glass-roofed extension is added, connecting the original mill to a new wing. The design carefully bridges the old and new — Douglas fir flooring runs throughout, and the dining area sits under an impressive glass ceiling.
2023
The Organic Pond
The centrepiece of the grounds is created — a stunning organic swimming pond, naturally filtered and 3 metres deep at the centre. A wooden jetty is built for diving. The pond quickly becomes home to abundant wildlife including a thriving newt population.
2023
The Organic Pond
The centrepiece of the grounds is created — a stunning organic swimming pond, naturally filtered and 3 metres deep at the centre. A wooden jetty is built for diving. The pond quickly becomes home to abundant wildlife including a thriving newt population.
2024
Interior Fit-Out
The interiors are completed. A high-specification kitchen is installed, the master suite takes shape across the entire upper floor of one wing with its freestanding oval bath, and the heat pump system — using the stream as its heat exchange source — is commissioned.
2024
Interior Fit-Out
The interiors are completed. A high-specification kitchen is installed, the master suite takes shape across the entire upper floor of one wing with its freestanding oval bath, and the heat pump system — using the stream as its heat exchange source — is commissioned.
February 2025
The Hot Tub
The finishing touch: a handcrafted wood-fired hot tub is installed in the garden. Perfect for stargazing, post-swim recovery, and long evenings in the Devon countryside.
February 2025
The Hot Tub
The finishing touch: a handcrafted wood-fired hot tub is installed in the garden. Perfect for stargazing, post-swim recovery, and long evenings in the Devon countryside.