King Street, Aldeburgh, Suffolk

Wonderfully renovated by its architect-owners, this playful four-storey house takes in some of the best sea views in Aldeburgh, Suffolk. Original and period-informed features, including cornicing and arched windows, are paired with a thoughtful contemporary reworking of the interior.



The Tour



With unobstructed views of the water, King Street runs parallel to the beach. This house sits mid terrace, its articulated facade standing out amid its traditional neighbours. A new folded mansard roof has been added, a reference to La Belle Epoque and the front's late 19th century flourishes. Yet, with its red-brick and stucco frontage, the house embodies the joyful spirit of Suffolk’s Victorian seaside styles.



An oversized circular window defines its arched entry-way. This opens to a ginnel and the entrance to this home, where an exquisite plywood staircase transports to its upper levels. With organic curves and a beautiful hue, it stands sculpture-like in its own regard.



The living spaces unfold across the upper two levels. On the second floor is the kitchen and dining room, a delightful space with the first of two tripartite arched windows. Smooth floorboards run underfoot, a textural counterpoint to an exposed brick wall that runs along one side. Opposite, a sleek Bulthaup workbench stands as a centre piece. The bespoke kitchen has stainless-steel tops with appliances from Gaggenau and Miele. The room is versatile: there is plenty of space for a dining table with stunning views over the beach.



Upstairs, the elevated sitting room has dual-aspect views that extend far and wide. This is a private and atmospheric haven, with a log-burning stove that allows for year-round use. Fully opening doors on the easterly face open to the private balcony where the inwards folded mansard roof frames wonderful sea views, giving the house its name, 'Oculus'.



The primary bedroom sits on the first floor, with a second triple sash window. A fine fireplace sits on one side, and a decorative cornice wraps around the seams of a soaring ceiling. Downstairs is a second bedroom, with confetti-like terrazzo floors and a separate glazed door that captures views, while a lacquered sliding screen provides privacy for visiting guests. Next to this room, beneath the stairs, is a cleverly carved-out desk space.



Adjacent to the main bedroom is the bathroom where a crisp design language reigns. Fittings are by Duravit and Matki and a tall window draws in light. Compact but wonderfully finished with timber cladding, the ground-floor WC epitomises the home’s attention to detail in each and every corner.



Outdoor Space



Ever-changing sea and townscape views are captured from the home’s top-floor balcony. It has room for a table and chairs, as well as carefully curated potted plants.





The Area



Aldeburgh is one of Suffolk’s most attractive coastal towns. It has a broad selection of independent shops, cafés and restaurants lining the high street. Popular haunt The Suffolk has a rooftop terrace overlooking the sea, and The Lighthouse is a favourite local haunt. The town also has an independent cinema and theatre.



In addition to its proximity to the town and seafront, the house is close to the River Alde at Brick Dock and is well placed for walks along the old railway track to Thorpeness. Sailing facilities and Aldeburgh Golf Club are also within easy reach.



Snape Maltings, home of the internationally renowned Aldeburgh Music Festival, is under a 15-minute drive. The picturesque market town of Woodbridge, which has an excellent variety of places to eat and an independent cinema, is around 30 minutes drive to the west, with the popular Suffolk towns of Orford and Southwold also nearby.



For rail connections to London, Saxmundham railway station is approximately 18 minutes away by car, with direct services to Liverpool Street in just under two hours.



Council Tax Band: D