Who we are

Every building has a story to tell, and a unique place in our past, present and future. The restoration of heritage buildings is a passion point for everyone working at Ilex. We combine sympathetic restoration and rejuvenation with a focus on sustainability and sensitivity – enhancing both the environment and surrounding habitats.

The name Ilex was given life within the walls of Trewithen, where the company was founded. Christopher Hawkins of Trewithen was a successful merchant shipman in the 1700s, who brought the county’s very first Ilex oak trees from Europe.

For us, the name felt like a natural fit. This genus of trees is known for its incredible strength, hardiness, and resilience, as well as its care in selecting where to venture and take root. It is also an evergreen, which is a compass point for our green direction as a company. As a team, we adopt the same spirit of consideration in the way that we work.

In all that we do, we’re guided by our fundamental values of craftsmanship, regeneration, positive progression, environmental mindfulness, and strength in our team's culture. By staying true to these principles, we can work with our heads and hearts, as well as our hands – leaving a legacy of craft to inspire future generations.