Ballycopeland Windmill

Ballycopeland Windmill is the last working windmill in Northern Ireland

Tandem were tasked with interpreting the newly restored windmill complex, including the sole example of a functional roller reefing system left in the world, enhanced by the stories of those who once lived and worked here.

Our interpretative panels across the site explore the history of Ballycopeland, the functions of the windmill, the stories of the millers who lived and made their livelihood here, and the efforts to preserve the windmill for future generations.

We conceptualised a range of physical interactives and audio-visual elements to help bring the stories of the mill to life. These interventions allow visitors to explore the inner-workings of the windmill and appreciate the day-to-day realities of working life at a windmill like Ballycopeland.

We also designed a family-friendly activity guide that allows young visitors the chance to explore and engage with the interpretation. Working with a local illustrator, we developed ‘Millie the Mouse’; a character that appears around the site and points out things of interest for young windmill explorers.

As part of our overall interpretation scheme, we also introduced a suite of directional signage to ensure that visitors are confident in navigating the windmill site. This is supported by a visitor guide card offering an overview of Ballycopeland Windmill complex.

Our interpretation at Ballycopeland Windmill celebrates this unique historical asset and brings to life the fascinating stories of those who lived and worked here.