BEACHES HOME + PROPERTY
A Unique Perspective on Space
Published: Summer 2024/25, in Beaches Home + Property
In an office above Albert and Moore in Freshwater, MILEHAM is an award-winning boutique firm specialising in architectural design and custom home building. Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team, James and Alice Pilcher, the MILEHAM team creates stunning homes where families can thrive.
There’s something unparalleled about Freshwater-based Architect and building firm, MILEHAM. Renowned for exceptional renovations, new builds and development projects, it is Owner James Pilcher’s approach to space that really sets this company apart.
Profoundly deaf from a young age, James’ early hearing loss instilled a deep and unique connection to space.
“James had a benign tumour removed from his leg when he was two, and following the procedure, he was deaf. From that moment, he embraced the world through sight,” explains Alice Pilcher, James' wife and MILEHAM’s Director of Operations and Marketing.
“He’s exceptional at floor plan flow because he’s hypersensitive to his surroundings. For James, it’s not just about how a space looks; it’s about how it feels to live in it.”
James has the latest Cochlear technology and hears exceptionally well. Thanks to early speech therapy, his speech is impeccable, and there are no communication barriers or need for sign language.
“James was a Cochlear Ambassador and product tester so he’s alway had the latest hearing technology. Most people don’t realise he’s deaf as his speech is excellent,” adds Alice.
A Lifelong Passion
Forever fascinated by buildings for one of his birthdays, before he was 10, James asked to visit the Novotel at Brighton-Le-Sands.
“The concierge asked, ‘How can I help you?’ and James replied, ‘I’d like to see the floor plan of the Penthouse,’” laughs Alice.
After two decades working in commercial and residential projects, James earned his builder’s license 10 years ago, a dual qualification that makes MILEHAM a rarity in the industry.
“It’s unusual for Architects to have hands-on building experience – not many get inside the roof and talk about support beams. James didn’t like losing touch with a project once he handed over the drawings so he learned the construction process firsthand. He knows how to design something beautiful, and he understands construction costs, so there are fewer surprises for our clients,” explains Alice.
By combining architecture and construction under one roof, MILEHAM’s integrated approach – from concept to completion – ensures a seamless experience for all.
“Many architectural designs never get built because of unexpected costs or impracticalities. We bridge that gap,” says Alice.
“James handles all the build quotes in-house which means his designs stay on budget, and he’s always up-to-date on the latest materials and labour costs. This is invaluable for client confidence.”
MILEHAM’s portfolio spans diverse styles, from Hamptons-inspired elegance to ultra-modern minimalism.
“We don’t impose one set style and clients don’t have to do everything with us. We can do the design, the build, or both. Our clients’ desires drive everything we do.”
Built on Family Values
While James focuses on design and construction, Alice looks after the business’s operations, marketing and HR. A mother of three, she balances the demands of work and family with grace. The couple recently began building their dream home in Bilgola, renting the house next door to stay close to the project and raising their children on the spot.
“I grew up in the bush and had a bit of a wild childhood, and I wanted the same for my kids,” says Alice. “Being on The Beaches is perfect. There are kids here at 6am on their bikes with surfboards under their arms.”
For Alice, MILEHAM is more than a business. “We’re not just creating houses; we’re creating spaces for families to breathe and raise their children in.”
With a focus on high-quality renovations and new builds across The Beaches, North Shore and Eastern Suburbs, MILEHAM is also eyeing future opportunities in residential developments and remains committed to maintaining a boutique, client-focused approach.
“We want to keep it personal and hands-on. That’s what makes MILEHAM special,” says Alice.
From childhood sketches to award-winning homes, James’s journey is a testament to passion and perseverance. With Alice by his side, MILEHAM continues to build more than just houses. They create spaces where people feel safe, inspired and truly at home.
