A new Sussex lodge takes design cues from the Bloomsbury Group

To experience the epitome of quiet luxury in interiors, we’re increasingly looking to the English countryside. And next week, there will be a new option for weekends and private events in the Sussex, Greenbelt.

Limekiln, a private-hire lodge in Eridge is the latest project from Red Deer, the architecture and design practice behind Kin House in Wiltshire, a redesigned Grade II-listed retreat. Taking inspiration from Charleston, the former home of Bloomsbury Group members Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, Red Deer has applied a muted palette to the rural property, highlighting local handcraftsmanship.

Leaning into rural silhouettes and muted English light, lead architect Lionel Real de Azúa designed colourful coffered ceilings and wall panelling with swaths of limewash in between. Keeping the wood floors and ceiling beams simple and raw, he pulled out special features in each room, like a Nicola Harding sofa upholstered in Le Manach fabrics by Pierre Frey, or Ceraudo armchairs in pastel stripes.

‘We aimed to pay homage to the diverse English rural vernaculars, integrating barn-like architectural features while introducing domestic nuances unique to Sussex,’ says Real de Azúa. ‘This concept is enriched by influences from the Bloomsbury group, resonating with the cultural heritage of nearby Charleston.’

Individual bedrooms are plush and cosy but the entertaining spaces focus on ‘hero’ items like tiered antique chandeliers and hand-painted, hand-fired tiles by Emma Louise Payne – her swirly creations cover the floor-to-ceiling fireplace in the vast Kiln Bar. The Green Club is a low-ceiling barn-shaped speakeasy with antique mirrored walls and velvet curtains.

Three miles south of Tunbridge Wells, the property draws on Sussex’s great art and artisan heritage by hanging painting and craft made in the surrounding villages.

Limekiln is currently taking bookings for April 2024 and beyond.