Occupying an elevated position on the South Devon coastline, this excellent five-bedroom home was designed in 1933 by the acclaimed modernist architect and pioneer of the international style William Lescaze. The subject of extensive renovation over recent years, internal living space of over 2,330 sq ft extends across three storeys, with far-reaching views from the roof terrace. Quiet and secluded gardens wrap the house, and the long sandy beaches and rockpools at Broadsands are a few minutes walk away.

The Architect

William Lescaze (1896 – 1969) was born in Switzerland and educated in architecture in Geneva and Zurich under first-generation modernist Karl Moser. He moved to New York in 1920, where he established his own practice. He is most remembered as one of the pioneers of the international style in America. During a partnership with David Howe lasting until 1932, they designed the Philadelphia Saving Fund Society – the first modernist skyscraper in the United States.

The Tour

The house is slightly set back from the residential road that provides direct access to the clay red sands of Broadsands Beach, and the striking profile stands alongside two others of a similar style nearby. Adjacent to the drive and garage, a wrought-iron gated pathway winds through a Mediterranean-style garden and up to the main entrance at the side of the house.

A handcrafted front door invites additional natural light through the bright entrance hallway, where natural cork flooring runs underfoot, opening into a series of living spaces that extend across the ground floor. An expansive open-plan kitchen and dining room is well-designed for the practicalities of family life with appliances built neatly into bespoke cabinetry. Fenestration on all sides allows light to stream in throughout the day; glass doors lead directly onto the south-facing terrace and gardens. A utility space with a wall of solid glass tiles is interconnected.

A beautifully proportioned living space is positioned on the easterly side of the ground floor, with glass doors leading from here to the gardens also. An additional interconnected room to one side offers great flexibility of use and has previously been used as a home workspace, music room and study. There is also a shower room on this level.

Ascending to the first floor, three of the five bedrooms unfold. Each is sensitively decorated in a calm and neutral palette, has an excellent provision of storage and wardrobe space and has views across the surrounding landscape. Two bathrooms serve the bedrooms on this floor.

Arguably the most impressive space in the house is the top floor sunroom/studio or largest of the five bedrooms. Large expanses of glazing invite an excellent quality of natural light, and a pair of glass doors lead to the large roof terrace, a wonderful position to enjoy a morning coffee or an evening sundowner and a snapshot of the sea views.

Outdoor Space

Secluded gardens wrap the house, where a series of terraces provide several spaces to eat and drink outside during warmer months. Herbaceous beds, hardy perennials and flowering climbers provide variety and colour throughout the seasons, and a water feature attracts an array of local wildlife. Raised beds offer the opportunity for growing vegetables and flowers, while mature hedging and tall specimen trees offer excellent privacy.

The Area

Broadsands has become a desirable residential area, with a good selection of nearby independent shops, cafes, restaurants, supermarkets and a library. There is easy access from Broadsands Road to the Southwest Coastal pat,  a quiet and peaceful national trail passing through country lanes, woodland and secluded coves, from Broadsands to Churston Cove. Agatha Christie’s house, “Greenway”, is within a short cycle ride, as are the delightful English villages of Galmpton and Stoke Gabriel, whilst the facilities of Paignton, Torquay and Totnes are a short drive away.

Positioned between Paignton and Brixham, Broadsands is a long stretch of sandy beaches and rockpools bordered by parkland. A short walk beyond Broadsands is Elberry Cove, reputedly Agatha Christie’s favourite beach and is mentioned in her novel ‘The ABC Murders’. The car ferry to Dartmouth is approximately 5 minutes drive away with a broader selection of shops and restaurants and a picturesque deep-water harbour.

The mainline stations in Totnes and Paignton provide direct services to Exeter St Davids and onward connections to London Paddington, with journey times of around three hours.

Council Tax Band: F

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.