East Chiltington, Lewes, Sussex De L'est

Built in 1975 and named after the historic Sussex Greensand Way, the Roman road that runs alongside the property, Greensand is an architect-designed family home that captures the enduring appeal of Mid-Century Modern architecture. Constructed when the movement’s principles were being reinterpreted for contemporary living, the house remains true to its original ethos, combining clean architectural lines, extensive glazing and a strong connection between the interior and surrounding landscape.

The current owners have carefully enhanced these qualities, creating interiors that respect the Mid-Century aesthetic while introducing a refined contemporary feel. Exposed brickwork, timber panelling and glass combine to create a home that feels stylish, light-filled and welcoming.

Set along a country lane amongst a small cluster of neighbouring homes, Greensand enjoys a delightful rural setting. The South Downs National Park lies just to the south, while immediate access to the surrounding countryside provides a wonderful connection to the landscape.

A timber front door opens into an entrance lobby, with glazed doors leading to the reception hall. The dual-aspect sitting room is filled with natural light through full-height windows overlooking the garden, while a deep bay window and an inset raised woodburning stove with tiled surround add warmth and character.

At the heart of the house is a superb open-plan kitchen and dining space reflecting the Mid-Century emphasis on sociable living. A clay tiled floor links the various zones, while double doors from the hall open into a striking vaulted seating area where a freestanding woodburning stove forms an attractive focal point. This double-height space flows into the dining area beyond, where bi-fold doors open directly onto the terrace and gardens.

The kitchen is fitted with gloss cabinetry, dark timber worktops, open shelving and a central island with breakfast bar seating. Integrated appliances include an electric Rangemaster oven, while a walk-in pantry provides excellent storage. A cloakroom adjoins the dining area, and a utility and boot room offers direct access to the driveway.

The accommodation has been arranged with flexibility in mind and includes a ground-floor bedroom suite with sliding doors opening onto the terrace and a spacious en suite shower room.

A galleried landing serves three further first-floor bedrooms, all enjoying attractive garden views. The principal bedroom features timber panelling, fitted wardrobes and French doors opening onto a private balcony overlooking the grounds. A paddle staircase rises to a loft storage room. Bedroom two benefits from an en suite shower room, while bedroom three is currently arranged as a study. A recently refitted family bathroom completes the accommodation.

Studio Flat
A particularly valuable feature is the superbly appointed self-contained studio annexe, currently used as a successful holiday let but equally suited to guest accommodation or multi-generational living. Accessed via an external staircase leading to a private balcony, it comprises an open-plan living room/bedroom with vaulted ceiling, a kitchenette and a shower room.

Studio
Further enhancing the property’s versatility is a detached timber studio, insulated and supplied with power, currently used as an artist’s studio but equally suited as a home office, gym or creative workspace.

Gardens and Grounds
Greensand is approached via a tarmac and gravel driveway providing parking for numerous vehicles. Attached to the house by a covered storage area is a double garage with electronically operated roller door together with an adjoining boiler room.

To the rear, the west-facing gardens form a wonderful extension of the living accommodation and enjoy an outlook across neighbouring fields, with glimpses of the South Downs through the trees. A substantial terrace spans the rear of the house, providing an ideal setting for outdoor dining and entertaining.

Beyond lies a broad expanse of lawn interspersed with established flower beds, ornamental shrubs and silver birch trees, creating colour and texture throughout the seasons, together with a further decked terrace providing an additional seating area.

On the southern side of the garden, a swimming pool with paved surround creates a focal point for summer enjoyment. A timber summer house provides changing facilities and houses the pool equipment, while an outside shower and two-person sauna further enhance the leisure space.

The gardens are enclosed by brick walls, post-and-rail fencing and mature tree boundaries, including several handsome pines along the northern edge, lending privacy and structure to this attractive setting.