Victorian Gothic church converted into a stunning contemporary home.

Description

History
Records show that the plot of land that this unique property stands on was purchased in the mid-1800s for just £735 with the building costing £800, a sum donated by small Protestant congregations in France and people within Brighton’s religious community. It was officially dedicated in 1887 as ‘The French Protestant Church of Brighton’, one of only two of its kind in England; a time capsule was set into the main stone foundation, containing items associated with Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, celebrated the same year.

Regular services were held at the church until its closure in 2008, and it was subsequently sold to the current owners.

About the property
Designed by architect W G Gibbins and characterised in the Gothic style, the church has handsome red brick elevations under a slate tiled roof, with classic Gothic features including lancet windows, a small square turret surmounted by a copper spire, an elegant rose window to the southern elevation, and a number of pointed arches – a motif repeated through the interior of the house. Since buying the church, the current owners have carefully and sympathetically converted it into a stunning contemporary home, with modern fittings throughout whilst maintaining the integrity and character of the building.

The main front door, which is set into a striking arched surround, opens to an entrance vestibule divided from the main living area by a stunning stained glass partition wall. The main living area is particularly impressive, with a soaring vaulted ceiling and full height windows; there is ample space for both seating and dining areas and the original altar has been converted into a bar. A glass staircase rises to the mezzanine level, a large and versatile space currently arranged as a wonderful principal bedroom suite with freestanding roll top bath. The clever use of glass – the balustrade, staircase and circular feature glass floor – floods the space with light and creates a contemporary contrast to the original church features. Lying off the main living area is a shower room with WC.

The kitchen lies beyond the main living area, and is fitted with range of modern white gloss units with a range of integrated appliances; a built in cupboard houses the boiler and hot water tank and there is secondary access onto Queensbury Mews. A staircase descends from the kitchen to the guest bedroom suite on the lower ground floor, which has a luxurious en suite wet room and a sun tunnel allowing some natural daylight.

Steps rise from the kitchen to a decked roof terrace, offering some private outside space with space for a small table and chairs.

Location

French Reformed Church is tucked away in the heart of the vibrant City of Brighton and Hove, only 120 metres to the beach, with views of the i360 and adjacent to Regency Square with its public green, iconic townhouses and restaurants.

Brighton and Hove is known for being one of the most vibrant cities in Europe, with a fantastic mix of famed nightlife, award winning restaurants, theatre culture, festivals and events. Sporting and recreational facilities are extensive. There is golf at West Hove, The Dyke and Pyecombe; racing at Brighton and Plumpton; sailing at Brighton Marina; and over the surrounding countryside, including the South Downs National Park, there are many miles of stunning walks and rides.

Brighton Airport, in Shoreham, offers a convenient base for private aircraft.

Mainline railway station: Brighton railway station is 0.7 of a mile distant and has services to London Bridge/Victoria from 1hr 6 minutes.

Schools: There are many highly regarded schools and colleges in the local area, including Roedean School and Brighton College. The city is also the home to both the University of Sussex and Brighton University.

Square Footage: 1,753 sq ft



Additional Info

Services: Gas fired central heating. All mains services.

Outgoings: Brighton and Hove City Council,[use Contact Agent Button]. Tax band E