With exceptional views over the pastoral hills of the South Downs lies Taperfield in Eastbourne, a three-bedroom home built by local architect Sven Hoyer in the 1970s. Its cantilevered form hangs over the generous garden, with wide expanses of glazing and a façade defined by its black brick and tile-hung cladding. Inside, original features abound and include shiplap ceilings to a sunken living room that forms the heart of the house. Set within a lawned garden filled with mature trees, the house occupies a peaceful position close to the cliffs of Beachy Head.

Please note that the house is largely in its original condition and may require some updating.

The Tour

Set back from the road, the house’s unassuming façade presents subtle clues of its late mid-century origins, notably by the modernist hood that houses the front door. Arranged laterally, the house unfolds from a generous lobby area with plenty of concealed storage behind tongue-and-groove. Internal access to the garage leads from here.

The living room, defined by its distinctive 1970s conversation pit in the centre, has vast windows framing breathtaking views across Friston Forest, part of the South Downs National Park. The position of the seating allows for complete immersion amongst the treetops. The kitchen and dining room lies adjacent, both generously glazed to take advantage of the views. Glass doors slide onto the rear courtyard from here also.

Three bedrooms extend towards the west wing of the house. Well-proportioned, they each look towards the paved courtyard in the centre. There are two bathrooms, including a Jack-and-Jill shower room.

An indoor pool overlooks the verdant greenery within the conservatory space, ideal for year-round dips. There is an additional outbuilding that houses the boiler. Plans are available to view to convert the house into a five-bedroom property subject to planning permission being granted.

Outdoor Space

The house is positioned on a steep plot to ensure uninterrupted views across the Friston Forest; the largest area of recently established forest in South East England. A paved courtyard is surrounded by mature trees, shrubs and evergreens and is a wonderful suntrap to enjoy al fresco dining in. The rear is encased by a wrap-around path and provides access to offers several different levels to relax in.

There is a double garage with power and lighting as well as parking for three additional cars.

The Area

Situated in the village of Friston, the house is surrounded by woodland and a picturesque rural setting. The village of East Dean is also exceptionally close by and offers a host of amenities including a weekly farmer’s market and the yearly vegetable show. There are several excellent walks to explore taking in Birling Gap to Cuckmere Haven and the Friston Forest. The dramatic coastline of Beachy Head is an eight-minute drive away, while the local pub The Tiger Inn is only two-minute in the car or a 13-minute walk.

Eastbourne with its late Regency and Victorian buildings is under five miles away and has plenty of independent cafes, shops and restaurants, as well as a handy Waitrose. There’s Foundry Coffee for pastries or Skylark for brunch, as well as Bistro Pierre, which has incredible views across Beachy Head and out to the Channel.

There are plenty of excellent schooling options including the Ofsted rated ‘Good’ Pashley Down Infant School and Motcombe Infant School, both under three miles away. Seaford Head School for secondary education is also nearby and is rated ‘Outstanding’. There are also great private school options in proximity: St Bedes & St Andrews prep schools and Eastbourne College.

Transport links into Central London run from Eastbourne Train Station which is a 16-minute drive away. From there train run to London Victoria in around an hour and 30 minutes, as well as links to Gatwick Airport in under an hour. There are also quick links to the A27 which runs to Brighton and beyond.

Council Tax Band: G

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.