Mill House
Description
Mill House is a mixed-use development in the heart of Cambridge, designed by MCW Architects, the 2023 Higher Education Architect of the Year. Situated beside the historic Newnham Mill Pond, the scheme replaces a fire-damaged Edwardian building and revitalises a prominent corner of the city with new housing and a vibrant commercial frontage.
The three-storey development integrates sensitively into the local townscape, combining seven upper-floor studio and one-bedroom apartments with a ground-floor café-deli that also serves as a flexible community venue. The building enhances the conservation area by re-establishing street presence and reactivating the public realm. With carefully framed views across the millpond and thoughtful massing, the project delivers a modern interpretation of Cambridge’s architectural heritage.
Requirements
The three-storey development integrates sensitively into the local townscape, combining seven upper-floor studio and one-bedroom apartments with a ground-floor café-deli that also serves as a flexible community venue. The building enhances the conservation area by re-establishing street presence and reactivating the public realm. With carefully framed views across the millpond and thoughtful massing, the project delivers a modern interpretation of Cambridge’s architectural heritage.
Location
Key challenges
1/Translating traditional tile forms into a contemporary architectural language
2/Balancing modern aesthetics with conservation area requirements
3/Ensuring façade materials met both performance and design expectations
Highlights & Achievements
- — Civic Trust Awards 2024: Regional Finalist
- — Civic Trust Awards: Shortlisted
- — Best New Building (under £2m): Nominated
- — A well-received addition to the Newnham community and Cambridge’s urban fabric
Materials used
Other projects
