The subject of a comprehensive renovation by the architect owners, this fantastically bright modern house occupies a central position in the market town of Kingsbridge at the top of the Salcombe estuary in south Devon. An easy flow of open-plan living spaces spans around 2,620 sq ft over three storeys, pairing the original bones of the building with a palette of modern materials. Upper and lower walled courtyards mean there is plenty of secluded outside space, and the location is excellent for easy access to South Devon’s finest stretches of coastline, with Bantham and South Milton Sands just a 10-minute drive away.

The Tour

Originally built as part of the Phoenix brewery, some parts of the building are thought to be over 200 years old, therefore retaining the architectural integrity was key to the renovation. Parts of the original site have been sensitively preserved, and materials have been chosen for their durability and elegance.

The primary entrance is set within the walls of the courtyard garden, bound by the original pale stone, which creates a pleasing backdrop and demarcates the outside space.

The ground floor atrium is a central axis to the rooms on this level, with a cantilevered steel staircase leading up to the first-floor level, which is given over to a series of interconnected open-plan living spaces. Poured concrete runs underfoot, and solid timber beams follow the dramatic pitch of the roofline. A glazed gable end opens directly onto the upper courtyard, inviting an excellent quality of natural light to flood in throughout the day. Vertical ribbons of glazing have been carefully cut out to visually connect the inside and out.

Designed to adapt well to easy entertaining and daily family life, this rooe – in line with the rest of the house – is characterised by simple linear forms accented by playful touches. A central island defines the cooking and eating areas, loosely arranged on the easterly side of the plan. The kitchen has been made-to-measure, with bespoke cabinetry neatly housing the appliances and creating plenty of storage space.

Two stairwells, positioned on either side of the plan, lead up to a mezzanine which follows an up-and-over, flexible layout. This is a quiet, more intimate space that lends well to reading, working, or a children’s play area. An interconnected bedroom is also positioned on this level.

The stairwell on the westerly side descends a dramatic triple-height space, where soaring ceilings create volume, and deep-set shuttered fenestration punctuates the walls to bring in plenty of natural light. Two en suite bedrooms are connected by a long hallway running the length of the house.

Existing plans are in place to remodel the ground floor, providing great potential for further development details, which can be found here. This space would house two additional en suite bedrooms, a study and a utility space and a large double garage opening directly onto the street.

The house has also been well-established as a holiday let, providing a substantial income stream, details of which can be shared on request.

Outdoor Space 

The upper and lower courtyards form an integral part of the overall experience of the house and are private and secluded sun-drenched pavilions for eating and drinking outside throughout the seasons. Verdant climbers trail the stone walls, and low-maintenance herbaceous raised beds teem with lavender.

The Area

Favourably located, Ebrington Street is just five minutes’ walk from the centre of Kingsbridge and its plethora of independent cafes and shops. The town lies directly on the Kingsbridge estuary, making it a popular location for kayaking and paddle boarding; at high tide, it is possible to launch from the slip, just 500m from the house. A ferry also runs directly from here to Salcombe.

The surrounding area is renowned for its beautiful rolling countryside and coastline, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and part of the South Devon Heritage Coast. There is easy access to dozens of Devon’s most beautiful beaches, many of which are connected by the coastal path. Bantham, a 10-minute drive away, is a wide sandy beach at low tide separated from Bigbury by the river Avon, renowned for big waves and strong rip currents. South Milton Sands is excellent for summer barbeques and is also around 1o minutes by car.

The Beach House at South Milton Sands serves fresh seafood, and The Crabshell in Kingsbridge is a popular spot for an alfresco drink and a pizza. Start Bay Inn at Torcross is great for fish and chips, and for special occasions, The Seahorse in Dartmouth comes highly recommended.

Dartmouth and Salcombe, Bigbury and Burgh Island are also within easy reach.

Council Tax Band: E

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.