The Cottage, Brighton

The refurbishment of a Grade II listed cottage in Brighton to create an informal cottage for visiting guests. The cottage was to feel cosy and rustic, with an authentically realised sense of age and character.

The final concept for the cottage was inspired by poet Ted Hughes' relationship with nature and rural life. A certain rawness, vitality and honesty was important, delivered in a masculine visual language with dark depths. The scheme was 'rustic modern', beautifully unrefined but with distinct elements of modernity. This 'timeless' feel, was grounded in its historical and geographical context to give an authentic and ambient feel. The interior elements are predominantly sourced and manufactured in Britain, chosen for their story, heritage or character. A restrained palette accentuated the punches of colour and allowed for a more richly textured and layered scheme.