Raising the bar

Alan Bird and Geraint Lewis have turned a medieval pub into a warm and welcoming home where natural materials, bespoke craftsmanship and pared-back elegance blend perfectly

- WORDS MARISHA TAYLOR | PHOTOGRAPHY JAMES FRENCH

THE PROPERTY A 16th-century converted village pub

ROOMS Entrance hall/ boot room, kitchen-diner/ living area/snug, office, utility room, music room, four bedrooms, three bathrooms

LOCATION East Sussex

EXTERIOR

Alan and Geraint reinstated the original pub sign. 'We loved the idea of honouring the building's past,' says Alan.

LIVING AREA

Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors on two sides frame views of the countryside. Delta III sofa, King Living. Camron leather armchair, Oakworld. Eden coffee table, Tikamoon. A Sapphire Sea artwork by Merlyn Chesterman

DINING AREA

The oak cabinetry and generous island with an area for bar stools provide plenty of space for cooking and gathering. 'We wanted it to be a really easy space to use,' says Alan. 'It works whether it's just the two of us or we've got people round.'

Kona table with Fenix top, Adventures in Furniture. Danish chair in beech, By Kallevig; for similar, try Nordina Home. Cabinet, Only Oak Furniture