Unique transformations: mills
Imagine opening your windows to the hypnotic sound of rushing water... Many of us dream of an idyllic rural lifestyle surrounded by nature, but what if you could combine that dream with twenty-first century comfort in a unique historic setting? If that’s your idea of perfect, take a look at these four extraordinary homes. Housed in fully refurbished mills, they’re all primed and ready for the next chapter in their stories.
Part of our Unique Transformations collection, these former flour mills have been given a new lease of life as unique homes with a singular charm.
Spanish flour mills: A whistle-stop history
From their earliest beginnings, human civilisations fashioned mills to grind grain into flour. In fact, rudimentary hand-operated mills were in use as far back as the Neolithic. The Romans introduced the first milling machines, which initially coexisted with watermills similar to those still found in modern times. When Spain was conquered by the Moors, an agricultural revolution was set in motion, as the new rulers of Al Andalus brought advanced hydroengineering techniques that spread throughout the Mediterranean. Their high-pressure watermills became commonplace across the Mediterranean region, from southern Catalonia to Murcia and the Balearic Islands.
Visitors to rural Spain would have encountered many such mills along the banks of rivers and streams. Very few survive today, each one a special treasure from the past. These properties tend to be located in peaceful natural settings, their stone walls gently echoing with centuries of history and the whisper of running water.
Live in a fully restored mill
When an extraordinary property like a historic mill is converted into a home fit for the twenty-first century, painstakingly preserving its unique character and features, we are left with something truly remarkable. Come and explore these four former flour mills, and see the magic for yourself:
Fully restored 16th century mill in Sigüenza, Guadalajara.
Located within the charming old town area of Sigüenza, this mill has been lovingly transformed into a beautiful home.
The property dates back to the sixteenth century and was magnificently restored in 2006, retaining its original stone façade, with access via an impressive arched wooden door.
A masterful combination of natural wood (including beams, fittings and doorways), stone and exposed brick brings the interior decor to life, in keeping with the rustic feel of the property.
For the warmer months of the year, venture out into the stunning courtyard and enjoy the calming murmur of the water as it trickles under the mill wheel. This spot is perfect for al fresco dining on those long summer nights.
Fully restored historic mill in Segovia.
Enjoying a uniquely charming rural setting, this former mill offers a rare opportunity to own a little piece of history.
Great care has been taken to maintain the property's integrity and wide array of period features, whilst introducing modern day facilities and fittings inside and out.
This unique former mill recently underwent a painstaking and sympathetic restoration.
Its large windows flood the property with natural light and provide far reaching views out over the surrounding countryside and the mill stream that runs under the property.
Outdoors, it benefits from mature gardens with its own well, plus two wrap-around terraces with views over the stream and landscaped areas – perfect for whiling away afternoons reading a much-loved book, while listening to the gentle, cascading waters of the stream.
Unique character home in restored 17th-century flour mill in Teruel
Reclaimed for the modern era, this restored 17th-century mill is now a charming period home, set in a nature-lover’s paradise and teeming with character.
In a peaceful setting by a narrow stretch of the River Cabra, fresh from its journey over the Sierra de San Just, stands this characterful 17th-century flour mill, its original mill stone still in place. The property was fully renovated in 2000 and the interior has been arranged to celebrate this unique building and make the most of the 230 m2 living space.
This unique character home would make a wonderful weekend retreat in a delightfully tranquil and restorative environment.
Ethereal woodland mill house retreat with beautiful interior, less than an hour from Madrid.
Converted water mill in a beautiful, bucolic setting in the Sierra del Rincon biosphere reserve, fully refurbished for twenty-first century life.
The former mill extends over a built area of 200 m2 and was comprehensively renovated in 2009. All fixtures and appliances are brand new, and all of the access roads and their respective bridges have been fully restored, ensuring the utmost respect for the local surroundings.
Every care has been taken to preserve the property’s original character. The refurbishment was carried out using the finest local materials, featuring beautiful painted wallpaper and solid oak flooring.
This is a wonderful opportunity to secure a unique mill offering a sophisticated, peaceful woodland retreat less than an hour from the capital. Having captivated all who viewed it, this property is now sold subject to contract.
Discover our Unique Transformations collections and you’ll find a select range of exceptional properties with their own unique charm – like these historic millhouses, witnesses to centuries of history, now reinvigorated as exclusive homes offering every modern comfort.