SIMPLY GRAND

There is an understated luxury to this Grade II-listed property in the South Downs that is rooted in its nuanced palette and characterful furnishings

- VIVIENNE AYERS

SITTING ROOM 'The chandelier was customised to fill the space with an extra drop added,' says designer Bahar Nejad. Chandelier, Renaissance London. Sofa, Design Vintage. Antique chairs in fabric by Sister by Studio Ashby. Rug, designed by Studio 9 Design; made by Coban Rugs. Artwork (right) by Hannah Ludnow, Columbia Road Gallery. The tapestry is antique. Cabinets (with bespoke marble tops), La Redoute

We wanted to ensure that this beautiful house felt like home,’ says Bahar Nejad, co-founder and director of Studio 9 Design, about this impressive Grade II-listed Victorian property in the South Downs.

DINING ROOM The pared-back scheme features a bespoke table and vintage G Plan chairs. Texture is added with the rug and oak herringbone flooring. Walls in Skimming Stone, Farrow & Ball. Bespoke solid oak table, designed by Studio 9 Design. Europa pendant light, Felix Lighting Specialists. Rug, Crucial Trading. Artwork, vintage find

The clients required more space, so the studio was instructed to help gain planning permission for an orangery-style rear extension, plus an annexe at the side of the house. ‘As a property, it was grand and it had all the right features as there were beautiful windows and high ceilings, but it was lacking comfortable flow for modern living,’ says Alice Adamczewski, co-founder and director of the studio. ‘It didn’t have a clear narrative or aesthetic. It needed grounding.’