The owner of a Kemp Town coffee shop is to become the first tenant of a historic seafront building.
The Temple at Black Rock has been let to Philip Cundall, who runs Portland in St George’s Road.
It is set to open in the spring following an extensive renovation as part of Brighton and Hove City Council’s Black Rock reworking project.
Philip said: “The view from the Temple is stunning and I am thrilled to be able to look out over the sea while establishing a new business in such a charming and unique building.
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to repurpose the Temple while honouring its past and creating a neighbourhood hub and meeting place.
“I want to retain a sense of playfulness in my restoration of this unique building, creating a destination for the community to come together, meet, sit and enjoy the beautiful views, just as they did almost 190 years ago.
“On long summer evenings, this is the perfect spot to enjoy the view and amazing sunsets we get over the sea. To be able to sit with a glass of wine or a cold beer would be the perfect end to a summers’ day.”
Philip also refurbished The Portland, which includes a gallery and a retail space for local artists and makers alongside its coffee and cakes.
He has applied for a licence to sell alchol from midday until 9pm from Monday to Saturday and from midday until 7pm on Sundays.
He intends to use local suppliers for The Temple, including Red Roaster and Real Patisserie.
Councillor Julie Cattell, lead member for major projects, said: “We are so pleased that Philip can now breathe new life into this small but beautiful little building.
“It is one of the ‘jewels in the crown’ of the Black Rock Renovation project so it was hugely important that the new tenant not only understood the unique history of the building but would work with us to preserve its unique character.
“We look forward to seeing Philip’s plans come to life, as he completes his renovation and, of course, enjoying a coffee on the terrace later this spring.”
The Temple was designed and built in 1835 as a ‘garden temple’ by William Kendall, the architect who laid out Madeira Drive and Esplanade and designed the nearby Reading Room.
It was originally a folly, a playful destination for the residents of the surrounding crescents and squares to enjoy the views and take the sea air.
During World War 2 it was occupied by the military and then fell into disuse.
Perfect tenant
Hopefully a sign of better times along Madeira Drive, and the seediness along that end.
Be great to see a café, serving local food, but alcohol … surely not.
They wonder why there’s so much trouble in Brighton around the Kemptown area?
It’s because the area is awash with alcohol!
I wouldn’t be surprised if launderettes don’t start applications for a drinks licence?
A glass of Prosecco with your afternoon tea can be lovely. It’s the person not the alcohol that causes the problem.
Accessibility has a very strong link to ASB in many, many research papers when it comes to alcohol, Jen.
The Portland has been a big success so I hope Philip’s charm will work its magic on The Temple. Let’s hope the locals give him the support he deserves for enhancing their area.
Can’t wait to take a coffee break here, during my seediness trips along that end.
Planting more seed!
Congratulations, will be amazing if it’s anything like Philips other cafe / art Hub ‘Portland’ Good luck 😉
It’s going to need a lot of security 24/7!
Justin and Roger(in) come to mind, but seriously good luck.
What a great place to relax and regain your strength after a nice bit of seediness in the bushes great news and good luck with your new venture it’s about time that end of the drive had some love I shall surely visit
That wasn’t best phrased, apologies!
Can’t imagine there would be a problem with alcohol abuse. Prices would be much higher than pubs. People won’t go there to get drunk!!
Just what Brighton needs… Another Cafe.
It’s exactly what all those unpublished authors and undiscovered musicians need! The first to be the afternoon customers and the second to make the coffees…!!
How lovely 🙂 Brighton definitely needed another venue down Black Rock way. Looking forward to visiting it in the spring