At the heart of the house is a spacious open-plan living, kitchen and dining area organised around a double-sided wood burner. Here, polished concrete, exposed brick and warm timber surfaces create a rich interplay of textures that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted in the building's past. A large communal dining table anchors the space, inviting long meals and lively conversation, while the concertina doors slide open to connect the interior with the terrace beyond, allowing the boundaries between house and courtyard to dissolve on warmer days. Also on the ground floor, a double bedroom and an adjacent wet room are positioned close to the entrance and offer step-free access.

Upstairs, the character of the building continues to unfold through a sequence of thoughtfully designed rooms. A second double bedroom sits alongside a generous bathroom, where a deep bathtub provides a quiet place to retreat, nestled under the sloping roof. Nearby, a study overlooks the historic rooftops and cobbled streets of Rye, while a twin bedroom combines playful details with carefully preserved original features. Exposed brickwork, reclaimed furnishings and unexpected moments of colour lend warmth and personality throughout. At the far end of the upper floor, the master bedroom enjoys elevated views across Rye and the surrounding landscape. Complete with a super king-sized bed and en-suite shower room, it offers a calm and secluded retreat within the house.

Throughout St. John, traces of the building's former life have been revealed rather than concealed, creating an interior that feels layered, characterful and authentic. Outside, terraces on either side of the property provide places to gather throughout the day, while a firepit and a large dining table beneath a timber canopy extend evenings outdoors beneath the changing East Sussex sky.