Sigma Plus Regency Square Suites, Brighton – Hotel Review

Overlooking the gardens of Brighton’s historic Regency Square, just moments from the seafront, Sigma Plus Regency Square Suites is a collection of ten luxury serviced apartments occupying a restored 1820s townhouse. Opened in June 2026 following an extensive renovation, the property combines the heritage of Regency architecture with modern, design-led interiors, generous living spaces and the independence of self-catering accommodation. Lauren Clifton checked into one of its sea-facing suites for an autumn weekend to experience it first-hand.

Regency Square is one of Brighton’s most impressive architectural landmarks. Developed between 1818 and 1828, it was conceived as an elegant residential address for wealthy visitors drawn to the fashionable seaside resort. Its handsome townhouses, decorative ironwork and sweeping views towards the sea are a reminder of the city’s popularity during the Regency period.

Number 29 has undergone an impressive transformation. Previously operating as a traditional seaside hotel, the building had lost much of its original character through successive renovations, including a particularly unfortunate period of 1970s and 1980s interiors.

Working alongside architect Chloe Lewis of Lewis McMillan Architects, Melanie Barnes of Brighton-based Elixir Interior Design has helped return the townhouse to its former glory, reinstating cornicing, ceiling roses and period detailing that had disappeared over the years. In fact, Melanie explained that very few original decorative features had survived, meaning much of what visitors see today has been carefully recreated.

What I particularly liked was the contrast between the historical architecture and contemporary touches. Rather than filling the apartments with traditional furniture, Melanie has introduced modern pieces that allow the high ceilings, generous windows and decorative plasterwork to take centre stage.

A palette of oak, walnut, stone and richly textured furnishings gives the spaces a comfortable, residential feel, while individual apartments incorporate different colours and materials to create their own identity.

Local craftsmanship has been a priority throughout the project. Sussex-based Spark & Bell created bespoke lighting, including pieces commissioned specifically for the property, while kitchens were supplied by Hove-based Kitchens by Khan and wardrobes crafted by A G Joinery.

Wool rugs come from Brighton-based Mister Smith Interiors, artwork has been sourced through King & McGaw and other local artists, and even the curtains and cushions were made in a workshop on Duke Street in The Lanes.

Much of the furniture comes from smaller British manufacturers, including beds from a family business in Glasgow. Sustainability has influenced the materials and suppliers selected, with refillable amenities and an emphasis on UK-made products wherever possible.

It’s refreshing to find a property where the commitment to local businesses extends well beyond a few pieces of artwork on the walls.

Location

Regency Square Suites occupies an excellent position on Brighton’s western seafront, overlooking Regency Square Gardens, with the Brighton i360 and remains of the historic West Pier directly ahead.

The property is approximately a fifteen-to-twenty-minute walk from Brighton railway station, making it ideal for those travelling down from London. The seafront is less than two minutes away, while Churchill Square shopping centre and The Lanes are both within easy walking distance.

One of my favourite discoveries was Preston Street, literally around the corner. Despite having visited Brighton several times, I hadn’t previously explored this particular stretch, which is packed with independent restaurants and bars.

Halisco, the Mexican restaurant recently ranked fifth in Time Out’s list of the UK’s best restaurants, is just a short walk away, along with Japanese favourite Bincho Yakitori, Ventisei Pizzeria Napoletana and Tamarind Thai Restaurant.

The location is especially convenient for guests who want to enjoy Brighton’s food scene without necessarily heading into the busier parts of the city.

Despite being so central, we found our apartment remarkably quiet. Even with the storm raging outside during our visit, there was little noise from the streets or Regency Square below.

There is no dedicated hotel car park, although paid parking is available nearby. We travelled by train, which proved straightforward.

Rooms and Suites

The property has ten individually designed apartments, ranging from more compact studios to generous two- and three-bedroom configurations. Each has its own kitchen and living space, giving guests the flexibility to stay for a weekend or considerably longer.

Half of the apartments face south, overlooking Regency Square Gardens towards the sea, while others offer a quieter, more intimate setting and face a neighbouring car park. 

Suite Three

We stayed in Suite Three, a first-floor, one-bedroom apartment that I would recommend for couples or anyone wanting to make the most of the sea views.

Climbing the staircase to the first floor, we entered a beautifully proportioned living space with exceptionally high ceilings and an enormous bay window overlooking the square.

The view is undoubtedly the apartment’s most impressive feature. From the seating area beside the windows, you can see the gardens directly below, the Brighton i360 rising above the seafront and the remains of the West Pier stretching into the English Channel.

The living room is decorated in a calming palette of warm neutrals, with a large sofa, additional armchairs and a low coffee table positioned to take advantage of the view. Natural materials and textured fabrics soften the room, while the restored ceiling detailing adds a historic feel.  

I also appreciated the fresh plants, books and games dotted around the apartment. Small details like these make the space feel more like someone’s carefully furnished home than a conventional holiday rental.

A large desk sits towards the front of the living area, providing a practical workspace with plenty of natural light, while the smart television and comfortable sofa make the room equally well suited to an evening indoors.

Kitchen and Living Area

One of the apartment’s greatest strengths is its kitchen. A large island with seating occupies the centre of the open-plan space, illuminated by custom-made pendant lighting. Behind it, sleek cabinets provide plenty of storage, keeping the room uncluttered despite the extensive selection of equipment. There’s a full-size fridge-freezer, oven, dishwasher, washing machine and coffee machine, alongside a toaster, kettle and blender.

Opening the cupboards, we discovered everything from mixing bowls, measuring equipment and graters to cooking utensils, olive oil, herbs and spices. 

Even the kitchen tap has a filtered drinking-water function, a useful addition that removes the need to buy bottled water.

Grind coffee and an extensive selection of Bird & Blend teas had been provided, along with fresh milk, sparkling water, ginger beer and cordials in the fridge.

A welcome hamper from local business Antipasto by the Sea had also been arranged for our visit, containing Champagne, local gin, chocolates and other sweet treats.

The beauty of this arrangement is that guests can enjoy many of the comforts of a hotel while having the independence and space to cook, entertain or simply relax without leaving the apartment.

Bedroom

The bedroom continues the understated design of the living space, with warm, muted colours, soft furnishings and carefully considered lighting. The bed is generously proportioned and dressed with crisp linens, plush cushions and additional blankets, while bedside tables provide space for personal belongings and conveniently positioned charging points.

After a long day exploring Brighton in particularly blustery conditions, climbing into bed felt rather like sinking into a marshmallow. The mattress was exceptionally comfortable, and the room was wonderfully quiet. There’s a wall-mounted smart television, which we used to watch a film before going to sleep, and ample built-in storage for clothes and luggage.

Bathroom

The bathroom was another highlight, particularly the enormous walk-in shower, which features a combination of overhead rainfall and handheld shower settings.

The water pressure was excellent, and having spent much of Saturday walking through Brighton’s wind and rain, I made full use of the shower’s multiple settings. It was one of those showers you really don’t want to get out of. The White Company shampoo, conditioner and body wash are provided, alongside fluffy towels and a selection of additional amenities.

There’s also a Japanese-style smart toilet with bidet functionality, something included throughout the property and an unusual feature for a Brighton serviced apartment. Ample counter space, well-positioned mirrors and convenient power sockets make getting ready straightforward, while the air-conditioning system allows guests to adjust the temperature independently.

Overall, the bathroom feels every bit as considered as the main living spaces, with finishes and fittings that would be perfectly at home in a luxury boutique hotel.

Breakfast

Regency Square Suites doesn’t have its own restaurant, but guests can arrange breakfast deliveries through local company Antipasto by the Sea. We took advantage of this service on both mornings, with owner Tash personally delivering our breakfast baskets at around nine o’clock.

The selection was generous and varied each day. On Saturday, we enjoyed smoked salmon and bacon bagels, freshly baked pastries, fruit and individual granola pots layered with honey, berries and lemon curd.

Sunday’s delivery included savoury filled croissants, pains aux raisins and another selection of granola pots, including a particularly delicious chocolate-orange version topped with mandarin segments. The presentation was lovely, with everything arranged in baskets and ready to serve.

We moved our breakfast onto the coffee table beside the bay window, made ourselves coffees and spent a leisurely hour enjoying the food while looking out across the seafront.

It’s an arrangement that suits the property well. Rather than having to get dressed and make your way downstairs for breakfast, you can enjoy a slow morning in your own apartment.

Service and Facilities

Regency Square Suites operates differently from a traditional hotel, with guests receiving a personal access code ahead of arrival, allowing them to check in independently and come and go without passing through a reception area.

There is no conventional hotel lobby, restaurant, bar or spa, although the apartment facilities are extensive.

Cleaning and linen changes can be arranged for longer visits, rather than being provided each day automatically.

I appreciated the practical approach to the apartment’s design. There are plenty of power sockets, thoughtfully positioned mirrors, generous storage and dedicated desk space. There’s even an iron and ironing board, which might not sound particularly exciting, but makes an enormous difference for corporate guests.

Exploring Brighton

With so much within walking distance, Regency Square Suites is well placed for exploring Brighton on foot. Preston Street offers an excellent selection of independent restaurants, while The Lanes and North Laine provide an almost endless collection of boutiques, vintage shops, cafés and independent businesses.

During our weekend, we spent Saturday wandering through the shopping streets, stopping at Komodo Coffee for coffee and banana bread before exploring more of Brighton’s independent shops.

For dinner, we visited Permit Room, Dishoom’s Brighton outpost, which takes a more informal approach to the group’s much-loved Indian food. The restaurant has an atmospheric interior, with low lighting, cosy seating and a menu built around Indian-inspired small plates, curries and cocktails.

Brighton’s seafront is also right on the doorstep, making it easy to incorporate a morning walk along the promenade or head towards the i360 and West Pier.

While Brighton is traditionally associated with summer holidays, the abundance of independent cafés, restaurants and shops makes it equally appealing in autumn and winter.

Final Thoughts

Sigma Plus Regency Square Suites offers something different from Brighton’s established luxury hotels, combining the privacy and independence of a self-contained apartment with the quality of furnishings, finishes and amenities you’d expect from a boutique property. The absence of a traditional reception, on-site dining and daily housekeeping won’t suit everyone. However, for guests who value additional space and the freedom to enjoy their accommodation at their own pace, these are reasonable trade-offs.