Embassy Court is often referred to as an art deco building but this is a common (and damaging) misconception.

Embassy Court is a landmark building because it is a rare example of English modern movement architecture.

It was built in the Thirties when art deco was popular but the principles of its design are very different. The modern movement rejected the superficialities of ornamentation - and art deco was essentially a decorative style.

Instead, it focussed on the sociological issues of architecture and developed a refinement based upon a close study of the nature of its materials.

Its architect Wells Coates, a pioneer of the modern movement, designed Embassy Court to engage with new ideas about social housing and, in particular, the benefits of sunlight.

With it, he continued a tradition begun in Brighton in the 18th Century which began to think of "happiness in terms of health".

The building is unique. Its sun parlours, designed to act as passive solar-energy collectors, were particularly innovative and are a valuable element of modern architectural history.

There is currently an active community of residents working very hard to achieve this. They need the support of the city to save this Grade II* -listed building of international significance from decrepitude.

Embassy Court is the only link in the historical evolution of Brighton; from Regency playground to modern city. It would be unforgivable if this was lost.

Embassy Court is as important to the city as the Royal Pavilion, with which it forms part of Brighton's bold legacy.

-Rowena Easton, Brighton