Wolvercote Mill is a brand new community breathing new life into the site of the former Oxford University Press paper mill.
Sandeep Shambi, director at Glen Howells Architects, tells us more about how the vision for this unique site was brought to life.
“The main criteria for Wolvercote Mill was to design a scheme that was sensitive to both its village setting and the heritage of this site which dates back to the 18th century. The existing mill buildings and surrounding village architecture provided design inspiration for the new homes.
“Following a detailed study of the existing properties within the village and their rural character, we combined 17th and 18th century features from local landmark buildings with a contemporary approach to create a collection of bespoke homes.
“The houses at the entrance of the development are clad in dust-coloured stone to echo the listed cottages situated within the village, and we also used a mix of red and buff coloured brickwork for different street scenes reflecting the prominent colours used throughout Wolvercote.
“We wanted to recreate village street scenes so many of the houses are uniquely designed to echo the charming patchwork appeal of traditional village living. The properties on the site of the former mill building feature large window openings and metal framework, boasting an industrial finish in respect to the site’s rich heritage. The properties overlooking the reservoir offer elevated three storey living so homeowners can enjoy the waterside views.
“The development has been designed with outdoor living, wellbeing and community in mind. A variety of natural features are dotted around the development, including a rich mature woodland, a series of historic watercourses and a reservoir which once served the mill.
“Once complete, Cala will have restored and re-opened the beautiful scenic footpaths that link the reservoir to the village green, some of which have not been accessible for 15 years. There will also be new cycle routes connecting Wolvercote Mill to Oxford city centre in less than 20 minutes, offering homeowners the chance to cycle to work safely along the River Thames.
“Wolvercote Mill will also be home to a new ‘Mill Square’, a new community centre which is set to become a social hub for the wider neighbourhood and will be used by homeowners and villagers for years to come.
“Cala has also taken positive steps to create an eco-minded development which will serve to protect the environment in the long term. Purchasers will be able to live sustainably, with properties featuring designated cycle storage and electric car charging points in garages. For those properties without garages, there are communal car charging points as well as an Enterprise Car Club space. Selected plots even have solar panels for renewable energy use.
“Cala has created something truly special at Wolvercote Mill and we have been thrilled to work in partnership with them to bring this unique development to life.”
