The interior of Susie Nelson’s listed home in Rye, East Sussex is much like the vintage clothes and accessories she deals in – graceful and timeless
Susie Nelson compares her vintage clothing and accessories business to dealing in antiques. When hunting for new additions to her stock – which she sells to collectors and fashion editors alike – she looks for pieces that combine an interesting design with good- quality materials and craftsmanship. And she applies that same vigour to furnishing her home.
“My husband David and I like our homes to have a strong sense of place and individuality, much like the clothes that I’m drawn to,” she said. “We like to mix pieces together, from 18th century oak to Arts and Crafts and Art Deco. It’s about living in a house that’s classic and not obviously designed or over- decorated.”
Susie and David, along with Saidie, their five-year-old Welsh terrier, moved to Rye in 2009, choosing the location because of its proximity to Susie’s parents and easy access to France. The house they bought was built at the height of the town’s wealth in the 16th century and, although it came close to ruin and demolition on several occasions, it was saved every time. Rye has always attracted writers and artists and, for a period in the 1960s, the author Rumer Godden lived in the house.
“It’s ancient and quirky,” enthused Susie, “but also surprisingly spacious, with decent ceiling heights, good proportions, and space for four bathrooms and bedrooms, plus three living rooms.”
Looking back to first impressions, Susie recounted that the interior was ‘pretty ropey’. “There was 1970s mustard-coloured paint and flock wallpaper, and the top floor was laid out as a small, self-contained flat with a kitchen in what has become our bathroom,” she said. Fortunately, much of the original house had survived, including many of the windows and dramatic structural timbers.
A substantial work programme was carried out in two main stages over four years. Around 30 trees had to be removed and a lean-to conservatory taken away before a new kitchen extension could be built. To create a fluid layout, two jib doors were built so that the kitchen, parlour and dining room flow in a full circle.
The couple’s favourite room is the spacious top-floor master bedroom, with its 16th century timber beams. “It has a certain wow factor,” said Susie. “We also love the first-floor sitting room – it has a great period atmosphere.”
The architecture throughout the house is, of course, powerful, but decorative touches, such as the interlined curtains – all recycled from previous homes – provide a rich finish that suits the dark wood.
You can see why a vintage-lover like Susie saw great potential in the property: not only does it ooze bygone charm but beneath its veneer lies a long and colourful history. Now, the Nelsons have added a fascinating chapter all of their own.