Who we are

Driven by craft and consideration, we give a new lease of life to unique and historic buildings.

  • The interior of an old, abandoned stone building with a partially repaired stone wall, a wooden roof with exposed beams, and broken windows with wooden shutters. The floor is covered with debris and moss, indicating neglect and decay.

    Rejuvenating built environments

    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.

  • Three men standing outdoors around a table with blueprints, smiling at the camera, with trees and greenery in the background.

    Leading the way

    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.

  • Group of people standing outdoors on grass with tall trees in the background.

    Hardy by nature

    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.

  • An aerial view of a construction site with a small excavator moving materials within a red reinforced foundation, surrounded by a protective fence and green grass.

    Firm foundations

    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.

A person's hand holding a small black chalkboard with the word 'POSSIBLE' written on it, along with some colored chalks on the board.

As we seek to improve the construction industry and create higher standards, we're tackling key challenges.

Construction site with excavator and dirt, wooden and concrete structures, safety equipment, and workers.

Everything that makes Ilex unique is found within our team. Creative, committed and considerate, they’re leading the way in better construction. 

To find out more about how we work, or to discuss a project, get in touch with a member of our team.