If you have a chance to explore Brighton & Hove, here are a few of my favourite places, where I draw interior design inspiration from.
The Royal Pavilion
The Royal Pavilion is steeped in history and one of Brighton’s most iconic landmarks. Built in the early 19th century, the Pavilion is an extravagant mix of styles blending influences from India, China and the Middle east. A treasure trove of design inspiration for any interior design lovers, make sure you take the time to explore the flamboyant, opulent interior and discover incredible period features we look for in the local period buildings of Brighton.
The Brighton Dome
The Dome as it is known locally, was originally built as a stable block for the The Royal Pavilion and having served as a Victoria skating rink and a WW1 military hospital in its 200-year history, is now a concert hall and arts venue. A Grade 1 listed building, the interior of the Dome is grand and ornate, with a mix of classical and Art deco styles. As an interior designer in Brighton, I find the Dome to be a wonderful source of inspiration, as it showcases how to beautifully combine different design styles to create a unique and cohesive design story.
Sussex Square
Sussex Square is a beautiful, crescent-shaped Regency square with private gardens located in the Kemptown area of Brighton. Built between 1827 – 28, the square is home to a number of impressive Regency townhouses, each with its own unique design features and interior spaces. I am inspired by the elegance and sophistication of the Regency period, and I love working with clients who want to incorporate this style into their homes. If you are in Brighton in early spring, the private gardens are open for public viewing which is a perfect way to admire the breath-taking architecture.
Brunswick Square
Brunswick Square is one of my favourite places and one that is very close to my heart. A Regency square located in Hove, just a short distance from Brighton, the square is characterised by its grand Georgian townhouses, which feature elegant proportions, high ceilings, and ornate decoration. I have been fortunate enough to design the interiors of a number of beautiful apartments in this square, all with unique internal layouts, inspired by the grandeur and opulence of the Georgian period to create luxurious and stylish interior spaces.
Hove Seafront
Hove seafront is a stunning stretch of coast, lined with impressive Victorian and Georgian townhouses. Over the past few years, work to upgrade the old seafront arches has given rise to a collection of boutique shops housed in the restored arches, a great place to wander around for design inspiration. The interiors of the shops, restaurants and cafés are all unique and many have retained original walls and features, making it a great place to explore.
The Lanes
The Lanes are a maze of narrow streets and alleyways in the heart of Brighton, filled with independent boutiques, antique shops, and cafes. The architecture of the Lanes is a mix of medieval, Georgian, and Victorian styles, and the interiors of the shops and cafes are just as diverse.
To the north of The Lanes are the north Laine’s which offer an eclectic mix of buzzy cafes, art galleries, vintage shops and creative street art. Need I say more!
Kemptown to Saltdean Seafront
2023 will see the opening of the new open water swimming centre Sea Lanes on Kemptown seafront. Skirted by the 140-year-old Volk’s Electric Railway, the new addition is the latest aspect of the regeneration of the eastern beach front. With a development of new contemporary shops and cafes planned, this will be one interesting spot to catch up on trends in interior design in Brighton.
Venture further west and you reach my favourite stretch of beach between Brighton Marina and Saltdean. A beautiful rugged coastal walk, the far reaching views and white chalk cliffs reflect the subtle colours I so often bring into my work as an interior designer in Brighton. Relatively unspoilt, full of wildflowers in a multitude of colours and shapes, this is my favourite place to go when starting a project and looking for some inspiration.
I feel fortunate to be working in such a vibrant and inspiring city. If you’re looking for an interior designer in Brighton who can help you to create a unique and stylish space, please get in touch.