De Courcel Road, Brighton, BN2

AP Estate Agents are delighted to present The French Apartments, set within an exceptional French Renaissance Revival property on Brighton’s iconic seafront. Dating back to the 1890s, this splendid Grade II listed building showcases the finest architecture of its era, with a grand symmetrical façade, twin turrets, a striking painted exterior, and a distinctive grey slate roof — a landmark that stands proudly as one of a kind. Steeped in history, the building was originally designed by renowned Brighton architects Clayton & Black, serving as a French Convalescence Home and even playing a role during the First World War as a haven of recovery for soldiers returning from the front. Today, it has been transformed into a prestigious luxury development, retaining its period character while offering modern refinement. Beyond the architecture, the grounds are equally impressive. The gardens are beautifully maintained, featuring a rich variety of mature shrubs, exotic trees, and a perfectly kept lawn — all of which enhance the sense of exclusivity and elegance that defines this remarkable residence.

INSIDE THE PROPERTY

The building can be accessed via a rear lobby that connects seamlessly with the entrance from the front parking area. At the rear, a welcoming reception hall provides a convenient space to collect post and ascend the main stairwell. Alternatively, the front entrance lobby offers direct access to the lifts and is a striking feature in its own right, with a herringbone-patterned floor and four unique backlit stained-glass windows — a true focal point of the room. Throughout the development, and continuing inside the apartment itself, original half-height glazed metro-style tiled walls add character and authenticity, reflecting the building’s historic charm.

Stepping inside the apartment, you are immediately struck by the sheer scale of the hallway, stretching an impressive 40 feet. High ceilings enhance the sense of space, while a practical area near the entrance provides room for coats and outerwear. To the right, the first bedroom is approached via a private lobby with additional hanging space. This double bedroom is fitted with floor-to-ceiling wardrobes finished in ornate wood veneer with intricate detailing, offering excellent storage. A bay window with plantation shutters adds elegance and natural light. The family bathroom, conveniently positioned off the same lobby, feels almost like an en-suite to Bedroom Two. It features a shower cubicle, white tiled flooring, and a thoughtfully arranged suite of bathroom furniture, including cupboards, a toilet roll drawer, and a countertop wash basin with mirror and shaving point above.

Further along the hallway lies the principal bedroom — a generous 17 feet in length — with a bay of windows overlooking the side of the property and a built-in double cupboard. Its en-suite bathroom is equally impressive, comprising a shower cubicle, Jacuzzi bath, low-level WC, and countertop wash basin integrated into gloss-white cabinetry with wood-effect surrounds and a contrasting black worktop. A tiled floor, splashback, mirror, and shelving complete the stylish design.

The hallway then dog-legs towards the study, which could serve as a third single bedroom if required. Currently fitted with an extensive range of bespoke furniture, it includes solid wood cupboards and drawers rising floor-to-ceiling, alongside a curved desk that flows neatly around the corner. Additional storage cupboards are also incorporated along the hallway. The living room is the crowning jewel of the apartment — vast in scale, with five windows dressed in plantation shutters. The room easily accommodates both a full suite and a dining table, but its true star attraction is the view: far-reaching vistas across the beautifully maintained gardens to the sea beyond. To the left, Brighton Marina comes into sight, offering a panorama that is ever-changing with the seasons and weather. A side lobby provides access to the private sun balcony, large enough for outdoor seating and dining.

Adjacent to the living room, the kitchen exudes quality and sophistication. Rich wood units and drawers are complemented by stainless steel worktops and a central island with integrated storage and built-in microwave. A fitted Rangemaster oven with seven-ring hob, glass splashback, and extractor fan add to the high-end specification. Tall ceilings enhance the sense of space and airiness, while practical features include plumbing for a washing machine and space for an American-style fridge freezer. 

In summary, this is one of the largest apartments within the development, extending to over 1,600 sq ft — larger than many modern four-bedroom detached houses. It offers a rare combination of historic grandeur, modern luxury, and enviable lifestyle. With the seafront and marina just moments away, residents enjoy not only exclusivity and elegance but also the health benefits of fresh sea air and coastal walks right on the doorstep.

LOCATION

Set along Brighton’s iconic seafront, this properties location offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and city convenience. With Brighton Marina just moments away, residents enjoy an abundance of leisure and dining options, from waterfront restaurants and cafés to a cinema, gym, and sailing facilities. The vibrant Kemp Town Village adds boutique shops, artisan bakeries, and independent restaurants to the mix, creating a lively yet welcoming community atmosphere. Families are particularly well catered for, with excellent schools nearby, including Brighton College, and green spaces such as Queens Park and East Brighton Park providing safe, open areas for recreation. Healthcare is close at hand, with GP surgeries and the Royal Sussex County Hospital less than two miles away. Beyond the immediate amenities,

The French Apartments are superbly connected: Brighton city centre – approx. 10 minutes by car or bus Gatwick Airport – around 40 minutes by car, or 30 minutes direct by train from Brighton Station Eastbourne – 40 minutes by car along the scenic coast Tunbridge Wells – approx. 1 hour by car via A27/A26 Hastings – around 1 hour by car along the A259 coastal route Brighton Station – just under 2 miles away, with direct trains to London Victoria in about 1 hour

This enviable location combines the fresh sea air and coastal lifestyle with the practicality of excellent transport links and everyday amenities. Whether enjoying a family day at the beach, exploring the South Downs, or commuting into London, this property offers a rare balance of exclusivity, convenience, and community. For those with a sporting pursuit - Just minutes away is East Brighton Golf club, a friendly 18 hole course with sea views and clubhouse. 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Annual Service charge circa £8410.46

Service charge covers maintenance of the building, common parts, grounds and parking area, cleaning of the windows. Cleaning of all communal areas, maintenance of the lift and cost of internal lighting and electrics, plus a substantial reserve fund for one off repairs and maintenance. 

Share of Freehold 

DIRECTIONS: 

HALLWAY

1.45m x 9.81m (4' 9" x 32' 2")

RECEPTION AREA OF HALLWAY

3.85m x 3.70m (12' 8" x 12' 2")

SITTING ROOM

6.20m x 6.88m (20' 4" x 22' 7")

SNUG

1.96m x 1.63m (6' 5" x 5' 4")

STUDY/ BEDROOM 3

2.85m x 2.23m (9' 4" x 7' 4")

KITCHEN

4.05m x 3.82m (13' 3" x 12' 6")

BEDROOM 1

3.33m x 5.35m (10' 11" x 17' 7")

EN SUITE

3.61m x 2.62m (11' 10" x 8' 7")

BEDROOM 2

3.44m x 3.16m (11' 3" x 10' 4")

SHOWER ROOM

2.21m x 2.04m (7' 3" x 6' 8")

BALCONY

3.78m x 2.11m (12' 5" x 6' 11")

AGENTS NOTES

This information has been provided on the understanding that all negotiations on the property are conducted through AP Estate Agents. They do not constitute any part of an offer or contract. The information including any text, photographs, virtual tours and videos and plans are for the guidance of prospective purchasers only and represent a subjective opinion. They should not be relied upon as statements of fact about the property, its condition or its value. And accordingly any information given is entirely without responsibility on the part of the agents or seller(s). A detailed survey has not been carried out, nor have any services, appliances or specific fittings been tested. All measurements and distances are approximate. A list of the fixtures and fittings for the property which are included in the sale (or may be available by separate negotiation) will be provided by the Seller's Solicitors. Where there is reference to planning permission or potential, such information is giv...