Prewetts Mill, Horsham

We provided structural engineering design for the redevelopment of an existing historical building at Prewett's Mill in Horsham, extending it upwards by two additional floors and converting it into residential flats.

Our scope began with a full structural assessment of the existing building, which had previously been in use as an office block. We evaluated the existing structure, foundations and fabric to establish what loads it could accommodate and to identify the strengthening required to support the additional floors above. From there, we designed the vertical extension across the entire block, along with the alterations needed internally to reconfigure the building for residential use.

Working with existing historical structures always brings its own challenges, matching new loads to old fabric, working with limited information on original construction, and coordinating strengthening works in ways that remain buildable on site. The result is a sensitive redevelopment that gives a long standing local landmark a new lease of life as much needed residential accommodation.

History

There has been a mill on this land in Horsham since 1855. William Prewett became the mill owner in 1872, and under his ownership the mill grew into an important hub of economic activity in the town, employing many skilled workers. It experienced many changes during its lifetime, including the move from steam power to electricity in the 1940s.

Over the years, Prewett's Mill gained a worldwide reputation for its products, exporting stone ground flour to Africa and Canada as well as throughout England. It continued to prosper until it finally closed in 1978.