Conversion of Cleator Linen Mill into Grade A Offices

A flax linen mill was established on this site around 1800 and was continuously developed until the turn of the Twentieth Century.  After a period of decline Jacques Speiregan bought the mill in 1938, where he manufactured berets for the armed forces and scout association.  From these buildings Kangol became an international brand that collaborated with designers including Mary Quant and Pierre Cardin and manufactured fashion headwear for artists such as The Beatles, Grandmaster Flash and Samuel L Jackson.

With the Lake District National Park close-by and the River Ehen bounding the site to the south, the setting is uniquely tranquil.  However, the original structures had fallen into a serious state of disrepair and were much diminished by a profusion of poorly conceived extensions and inappropriate adaptions.

preFab was invited to prepare proposals to convert the buildings into attractive Grade A office space appropriate for the type of ‘blue chip’ technology companies that support the neighbouring nuclear industry.  The scheme aims to create a flexible and stimulating working environment which makes the most of its attractive bucolic setting.

The clutter of poor quality buildings that cloak the historic ranges are removed so that they can be appreciated in their original setting.  A new structure in glass and stone is inserted, knitting the mills together.  This provides covered circulation, improves accessibility throughout and resolves the changes of levels between the original structures.  The expression is contemporary, but respectful and contrasted against the historic fabric.

The double height glass reception hall, being the public face of the resident companies, creates a suitably dramatic first impression.  It is a greeting and meeting space for clients and collaborators and a place for orientation, contemplation and refreshment.  The south facing glass wall draws on the beautiful riverside vistas and passively collects solar energy.  This is is moderated by the mass masonry and stored, before being distributed throughout the offices.  During periods of fine weather the wall may be fully retracted, allowing the reception area to extend outdoors and benefit from the sheltered sunny microclimate and the green tranquil setting.

The proposals were supported by the local community and planning permission was granted without issue.