Located on a peaceful rural plot, approximately a mile from the town of Pulborough, this is a rare example of a significant Modern house in West Sussex. The 4 / 5 bedroom property sits in approximately 4 acres of land and has far-reaching views over the South Downs. Completed in 2008, the design by Tod Wakefield and Mary Collier is a re-build of agricultural buildings that formerly occupied the site.
Designed as a large courtyard house, it features extensive glazing that give views of the surrounding gardens and also flood the house within. The construction is a simple steel frame with a barrel-vaulted zinc roof, allowing the internal spaces to be easily altered. To make the most of the views of the South Downs, roof terraces have been incorporated throughout the design.
Sustainability has informed much of the design, with features that included zoned under-floor heating, super-insulation and a rainwater harvesting tank. Interior finishes throughout make use of oak harvested from the site. The south-facing glass (the high-performance windows were imported from Denmark) allows passive solar gain, whilst the large overhangs from the roof ensure that overheating is avoided.
Accommodation includes four bedrooms, two reception rooms, a kitchen / dining room and a large utility room. Internally the house measures approximately 3,139 sq ft. Outside there is a carport, stables, and tack room. The courtyard gardens have been carefully designed by Collier to be as significant to the architecture of the property as the main house. They include beds, water features and areas for the growth of fruit and vegetables. To the side of the house is a large (approximately 2.7acres) area that could be used as further gardens or a paddock.
The property borders protected open countryside and is situated on the edge of the South Downs National Park. It is approximately one mile from the centre of Pulborough, a pretty town that offers a good range of services including a Post Office, pubs, two supermarkets and a train station that runs services to London Bridge and London Victoria in approximately 80 minutes.
This area of West Sussex is much sought-after thanks to its stunning countryside, market towns such as Petworth and Horsham, good links to London and Brighton and also its easy access to the coast (which can be reached in under half an hour). Local attractions include Goodwood and excellent walking along the South Downs Way and (very close by) RSPB Brooks Reserve.
Please note that all areas, measurements and distances given in these particulars are approximate and rounded. The text, photographs and floor plans are for general guidance only. The Modern House has not tested any services, appliances or specific fittings — prospective purchasers are advised to inspect the property themselves. All fixtures, fittings and furniture not specifically itemised within these particulars are deemed removable by the vendor.
