London-based architecture practice Red Deer has recently completed the refurbishment and interior design of East Sussex boutique hotel and hideaway, The Gallivant. Located opposite the fabled Camber Sands in Rye, Red Deer led the refurbishment and expansion of The Gallivant’s restaurant with the addition of a new bar, snug, sitting room and private dining room.
The Gallivant is a boutique, one story, low-tech 20 room hotel and hideaway accommodating a spa, coastal garden and restaurant, used equally by locals as residents. In its refurbishment Red Deer took cues from locally found elements. New planting was incorporated to the exterior of the building to soften the facade and help the building blend with its surrounds. Inside and out, exposed cedar timber framework, battening and wooden framed sash windows echo the architecture found in the local 14th-century town of Rye and provide a rustic warmth to the design scheme.
The dining area which was completely remodeled, blends a Californian motel style design with British seaside chic. Natural sandy shades, pale green hues and paired back furniture in natural beech, oak and black ash are teamed with lush palmy planting. Nickel fisherman wall lamps, framed vintage photographs and beachwear nod to the Great British love affair with the seaside.
The new private dining area, The Cabin, features Crittall windows with reeded glass to provide seclusion. The intimate room seats 16 with comfy armchairs upholstered in vibrant Navajo inspired fabric and brass wall lamps providing soft ambient lighting. Red Deer included a newly formed bar at the heart of the new spatial design which has almost tripled in size. The dark wood bar and brass counter with rich green leather bar seating and ikat textiles provides a comfortable and chic social space.
The new sitting room has the air of a Hampton beach house, with the lounge area providing the perfect retreat for reading and board games. Washed-out plasters and limed woods akin to the rugged coastal finishes and deep heavy cottons in nautical tones are used throughout the interior to create a similar feel to those found in local industry. Built in shelving is ornately adorned with books and local curiosities. The snug featuring a half moon banquette complete with open log fire and sheepskin throws is also a new addition to create a warm and welcoming abode.