Turning the wheels for the next generation

ak|d’s historic mill ready for next chapter as stunning new home

Tucked in the valley below Peterculter just west of Aberdeen, lies Upper Kennerty Mill, one of the most stunning and distinctive homes to come onto the market in recent times. Once playing an important role in supporting the local agricultural industry Upper Kennerty Mill faced an uncertain future after years of dilapidation and vandalism, with much of the interior and mill workings damaged beyond repair. The Category B listed building , last operational in the mid 70’s was in a precarious condition.

But in a project that has been a labour of love and a career highlight for award-winning architect Annie Kenyon, this historically significant building has come to life again, part of its heritage preserved for a sustainable future thanks to its transformation into a striking and unique modern four-bedroom luxury home, complete with two water wheels and an interior glass viewing floor over the restored mill machinery.

It is hard to believe that this property, which sits at the gateway to Royal Deeside, is only 15 minutes from Aberdeen International Airport and borders the city of Aberdeen and its business hubs.

Set in half an acre of land, including 150m of river frontage along the Culter Burn, which once powered the mill, it is a haven of peace and tranquility; a slice of country living set in a semi-urban environment, with partially terraced lawns, gabion wall features tying old and new together, and views overlooking dense mature woodland and the burn itself, with its salmon.

Sympathetically conserved to retain or replicate many of the original features, the core mill building looks much as it would have when it was built in 1838, its historic structure safeguarded by the retention of the original stonework, door, windows and slate roof. To replicate the original windows, the architect sourced craftsman-built accoya casement windows in traditional style.

On the east elevation, the remnants of the two 14ft water wheels have been restored along with the lades and the internal mill workings.

Redundant additions on the north elevation have been replaced by a contemporary new-build extension. Clad in black thermopine cladding, it is an architecturally striking addition, which contrasts and complements the old building.

The external authenticity of the core mill building belies what awaits inside this 276m2 home.

This is an interior dominated by light and space, with clean, elegant lines, its overall sense of openness enhanced by the high ceilings which give it such grace. It is a home full of character where the old and the new blend seamlessly together in a truly beautiful contemporary home.

On the ground floor, the Whisky Snug, a room full of character with exposed exterior wall pointings and elm beams. A cosy spot to discuss and sample the perfect dram or alternatively to locate a games or cinema room.

Across the hall, the spectacularly spacious kitchen area, heart of the home. Measuring 45m2, this beautifully appointed open plan kitchen and dining hall is ultra-modern chic with stylish base and wall units, and a large island with built in wine fridge. A double glass door to the courtyard and adjacent full-length window flood the room with natural light. A second glass paned door opens onto the exterior stairway leading to the south courtyard.

Here too is a feature which more than any other brings the building’s heritage into the core of this modern home, a glass floored viewing galley running the width of the room which looks down to the restored mill machinery in the basement below. Both the exterior and

interior mill workings were lovingly restored by a master craftsman, the architect’s father Peter Kenyon.

There are two impressive feature staircases in this home. Custom made of glass and steps carved from local elm, they are beautiful, practical additions to this very special home. One leads from the lounge with its elm beams and contemporary wood burner, to give exclusive access to the guest suite which occupies the whole first floor of this wing.

The other stair leads to a masterbedroom truly worthy of its name. Extending over 46m2, it includes a large walk-in wardrobe, seating areas, an elegant and luxurious en-suite and large windows framing views over the Culter Burn with entertainment provided by the resident squirrel. From the oversized bath in the ensuite there are views to the south and to the water with its salmon and family of ducks. After a busy day, this room is a perfect spot to relax, soak up the views, and to keep an eye out for some of the wildlife including otters, red kites and the rich variety of garden birds that inhabit the area.

Also on this floor are two further large double bedrooms and a spacious family bathroom. Additional ground floor accommodation includes a large shower and accessible bathroom, cloakroom, large utility and power rooms and a seating nook with large viewing window.

The property is highly insulated with underfloor heating supplied by an energy efficient air source heat pump (ASHP) alongside Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR).

And the hidden gem of this home? A full-size basement space with exterior access suitable for a wide variety of purposes.

On the market for £1.2 million, Upper Kennerty Mill is a one-off opportunity to buy not just a home, but a way of life.