Onslow Court is a spectacular example of Art Deco Architecture, a purpose-built block of flats constructed in 1933. Located on the seafront at the Eastern edge of Worthing, it was designed to offer unrestricted sea views in what was, for the time, a relatively tranquil setting.

Originally, Onslow Court had thirty luxury apartments available, all owned by a company called Knight & Co. and all available for rental only. One flat was occupied by the caretaker who looked after the whole building (and the communal boiler). This is no longer the case, and this flat eventually became available to rent and then later to purchase. One other flat was split into two, bringing the total number of flats to the current figure of thirty-two.

The building was designed by A. T. W. Goldsmith, who was also responsible for several other buildings in Worthing.

The selling brochure of 1934 boasted of the building’s central heating, constant hot water and fully fitted all-electric kitchens, with refrigerators, electric lifts, luxurious bathrooms, sun balconies and wireless radio aerial points. The building still has a communal boiler supplying heating and constant hot water, though this is now a state-of-the-art, gas-fired boiler.

The 1934 brochure goes on to read: “The design and planning is in modern style in conformity with the present day demand for comfort and spaciousness and the construction is in accordance with the latest principles of sound resistance and sound proofing.” Onslow Court had cork composition floors throughout (some flats still do) and a papier-mâché type covering on the walls.

“Every flat is a sun trap deriving the full benefit of Worthing’s record winter and summer sunshine. In the warm and cosy atmosphere of Onslow Court the dread of winter is forgotten, making that season one of the most attractive of the year. “

“There is ample cupboard space; in addition, each flat is allocated a useful storeroom in the basement. The kitchens are superb examples of efficiency and brightness, every flat has a rear entrance giving direct access to the service stairs. Automatic rubbish chutes are also provided. ”

Further articles are on the site, in particular, the one on Art Deco at Onslow Court here.