A Stunning Renovation 10 Years in the Making!

Previously known as Meeten’s Mill, the Windmill is an eighteenth-century octagonal smock mill that is thought to date back to 1840s. Located in the charming village of West Chiltington, West Sussex, this Windmill holds a significant presence, with its distinct outline featured on many road signs within the village. Operating as a functioning mill until the 1920’s when it was converted into a residential property.

Kriss and David purchased the windmill back in 2010. After working closely with their architect during the design process, they embarked on their first major renovation in 2013.  This involved creating an open-plan kitchen/diner within the ground floor annexe and improving the insulation of the annexe, alongside the first installation of the Bereco Flush casement windows in Traffic White RAL 9016 in 2014.

During 2020, the next stage of renovations took place, this time focusing on updating the plumbing, electrics, and staircases within the windmill itself. Kriss oversaw this phase closely, navigating through challenges of lockdown restrictions. As part of this stage, the ground and first floor new windows were installed as there was no need for any scaffolding.

Rolling forward to 2023, the scaffolding was erected, and the impressive sails were temporarily removed for decoration. During this time, the third phase of Bereco windows were installed to the second and third floor windows.

Kriss and David were recommended to Bereco in 2012 by their architect, who had specified us on a few previous projects. They worked closely with their architect to follow the strict guidelines from the Horsham planning office regarding renovations to the Windmill.

Bereco Heritage Slimline Flush Casements were selected as the perfect solution to keep the tradition of the Windmill alive. Their slim frames and options for both 16mm Slimline Double Glazing or Single Glazing make them ideal for Conservation areas and listed buildings. A 16mm lambs tongue bar is used on each casement window and Flush French Doors, complemented by an elegant Monkey Tail handle, and stay bar in Antique Black as an homage to the original Crittal windows.

During the 10-year renovation, Kriss and David encountered a number of challenges. One particularly daunting task was the replacement of the two circular bullseye windows, which was initially perceived by them both as a major hurdle. However, their dedicated project manager at Bereco provided invaluable assistance in the form of CAD drawings and guidance to help them to accurately measure the existing window and bring their vision for the replacements to life.

Testimonial from Kriss and David Harrold –

“We’re very happy that we selected Bereco Heritage windows for our Grade II listed windmill. We wanted to improve insulation and draught proofing, while preserving the period styles. And the windows had to look great within Stone, Brick and Wood surrounds. Bereco windows delivered on all 3.  The team were so helpful getting the sizes just right, and the windows themselves are of the highest quality.  We are delighted with the finished look and would recommend them to anyone renovating a unique or unusual building.”