Queensbury MewsBrighton, BN1 2FE

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.

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