Hotel heaven
Explore Living transforms the 1930s Grand Ocean hotel into stunning new apartments in its orginal Art Deco style
The wait is nearly over for buyers wanting to own a slice of history at Explore Living’s Saltdean-based development Grand Ocean. The eagerly awaited former Art Deco hotel building, comprising 45 exclusive one and two-bedroom apartments, will be launched at a special event on Wednesday 3 February between 6pm and 8.30pm.
This will be the first opportunity for buyers to step inside the refurbished iconic Grade II listed building, once heralded by Billy Butlin as “one of the best investments” he ever made, which has been meticulously restored and refurbished to create a unique selection of contemporary homes. The spacious apartments spread over five storeys range in size from 374 sq ft to 1,122 sq ft and feature the highest specification available at the development.
Each home offers the very best in modern living with under-floor heating, a video-entry system, pre-wiring for Sky+ and provision for wall-mounted TVs and energy-efficient lighting throughout. The stylish kitchens benefit from a thoughtful, ergonomic design to maximize storage space and feature concealed sockets, deep work surfaces and integrated appliances including microwave, oven, hob and extractor, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, waste disposal system and freestanding washer/dryer.
“Grand Ocean demonstrates the perfect blend of classical Art Deco design and contemporary interior styling”
Explore Living has taken great care in retaining the former hotel’s original ivory-white, crescent-shaped façade which famously features a nautical-themed architectural design with circular windows on either end of the building resembling cabin portholes. The cruise ship theme is visible again in the design of the award-winning communal garden mimicking the bow deck of the Queen Mary cruise ship. Further art deco inspired features include the ‘Brighton-electric-blue’ coloured windows, characteristic of the 1930s era; the rejuvenated entrance lobby which features the detailed original vinyl floor artwork including seahorse motifs, and the carefully restored sweeping staircase leading to the upper floors. Explore Living has also incorporated a replica of the former hotel’s reception desk in the entrance lobby and the original Art Deco doughnut ceiling lights.
John Inglis, Explore Living sales and marketing director, comments: “We are very excited to have reached this major milestone of Grand Ocean’s redevelopment. Buyers have been eagerly anticipating their first opportunity to step inside the restored former hotel building, and we are sure the demand will be very high for these stunning apartments. I believe Art Deco styling holds an enduring appeal that will always be popular due to its elegant appearance and strong geometric design.”
“Grand Ocean offers a unique living experience and demonstrates the perfect blend of classical art deco design and contemporary interior styling – perfect for 21st century living. The two brand new show apartments and marketing suite provide visitors with a clear sense of the exceptional level of specification and innovative approach that Explore Living is known for.”
The development offers a unique combination of tranquillity, stunning sea views and high quality living. Located on the doorstep of the rolling Sussex Downs, with breathtaking views, quintessentially English villages and walks for all abilities, Grand Ocean is truly a peaceful and enjoyable environment in which to live. Brighton is located approximately six miles from the development providing a wide range of shopping, restaurants and entertainment options. For commuters looking to travel further afield, regular services run from Brighton Station into London Victoria in just under an hour.
Grand Ocean is also home to Saltdean’s first car club, which provides rental of low-emission cars from as little as £3.96 a day. When complete, Grand Ocean will provide 279 one- and two-bedroom apartments and penthouses, most with sea views and secure underground car parking. All residents of the evelopment will benefit from the use of an on-site gym, which is due to be opened in early 2010.
Homes at Grand Ocean start from just £199,995. For more information please call Explore Living on 0844 6626042, email grandocean@exploreliving.co.uk or visit www.exploreliving.co.uk
