The Pump House:
A Characterful Sussex Space for Branding Photography and Creative Shoots
Some spaces immediately feel calm, grounded and full of possibility.
The Pump House is one of those places. Nestled on a Sussex family farm, it’s a thoughtfully restored building that now offers a beautiful, flexible backdrop for branding photography in Sussex and creative shoots.
I spoke with the owner, Sarah, about the history of the space, what shaped its design, and why it works so well on camera… especially for small businesses and creatives looking for something relaxed and characterful.
The Pump House is such a beautiful, character-filled space? Can you tell me a little about its history and how it came to be what it is today?
“The Pump House is a former agricultural building at the northern end of our family farm.
We believe that it used to belong to the adjacent Manor House and was originally used to house water pumps, but when these systems became redundant the building was then used for storage and as a garage for a Rolls Royce.
My grandparents bought the building many years ago and in the mid 2000s my father added a metal roof to protect the structure of the building.
For a long time, I suggested to my family that we should convert the building into a little holiday cottage due to its charm and idyllic location, but it wasn’t until 2022 that our dream became reality.”
What made you decide to open the space up for photoshoots and events?
“My background is in television production so for many years I have worked at film locations around the world and have a clear understanding of what kind of space works well on camera both visually and logistically.”
What do you think makes The Pump House such a special backdrop for photography, especially branding sessions?
“I think the main reason The Pump House works so well is because of the flexibility the space offers.
Although it is not a large building, the southern side of the building can be opened completely on to the terrace which gives a photographer a lot more usable space and potential depth of field.
We used a variety of materials in the design including brick, weather boarding and reclaimed wood which all create texture and interest as a backdrop. And there is an abundance of natural light in the house, which can be a blessing or a curse depending on the weather, but black out curtains and blinds allow the photographer to control the light.”
Are there particular features, rooms, or details that people always comment on or that really capture its charm?
“We have been incredibly fortunate to receive some amazing feedback from both guests who have stayed at The Pump House as well as photographers.
The overall sentiment is how unique and homely it is. There are so many personal touches included in the design and we tried to make it as sustainable and eco-friendly as possible.”
How does it feel seeing The Pump House used as a creative space by local businesses and photographers?
“When we first started planning the conversion we were determined to use as many local businesses, people and resources as possible.
Our builders all live locally and the project manager had lived on our farm when he was kid. All the artwork in the house is by local Sussex-based artists, and the fabulous mural on the bathroom wall was painted by a brilliant artist and muralist MaryAnne Nguyen who lives in the nearby village of Warnham.
Now we are up and running it seems only right that we continue this ambition in the hope that we can continue to support local as much as possible.”
What’s your favourite thing about the space...the part that always makes you stop and smile?
“It would be too hard to pick one favourite thing about The Pump House.
Designing it was such a labour of love and I enjoyed every minute, so I was quite sad when it was finally finished.
But every time we slowly open the large cart doors at the entrance of the house to reveal what’s inside I can’t help but feel proud of what we have created, and how we have given this rather neglected old building a new lease of life, that I hope lots of people will come to enjoy for many more years to come.”
The Pump House is a wonderful example of how space can quietly support creativity.
Its light, textures and flexibility make it a natural setting for branding photography; not because it demands attention, but because it allows people to feel at ease. When people feel comfortable, the images tell a more honest story.
Spaces like this don’t just provide a backdrop; they shape the experience. For photographers and businesses alike, that makes all the difference.
The Pump House is a lovely option for branding photography and creative shoots in Sussex, particularly for businesses looking for a relaxed, natural setting.
