Project Spotlight: Agents and Customs House Refurbishment – Brownsea Island

As part of our ongoing collaboration with the National Trust, Dorset Build were invited to

undertake a sensitive and high-spec renovation on Brownsea Island. The project involved two prestigious holiday let properties—Agents House and Customs House—nestled just metres from the water’s edge and backing onto a protected wildlife reserve. With just a five-week window to complete the works before guests were due to arrive, the pressure was on to deliver a flawless finish on a tight timeline.

The larger of the two buildings, Agents House, underwent a substantial refurbishment. The works included a full strip-out and refit, renovation of the original staircase, extensive traditional lime plastering throughout, creation of a new ground floor WC and shower room, blocking off a redundant opening into the adjacent property, full redecoration, and the installation of a new kitchen. We had previously modernised the main bathroom in an earlier phase, and this project continued that theme of upgrading facilities while remaining respectful to the building’s original character.

Much of the original lime plaster had degraded and blown away from the internal stonework. Our in-house specialist removed all failed sections and carefully reinstated the traditional finishes using time-honoured materials and methods. The staircase, which had previously been boxed in with studwork and MDF, was restored to its former glory—stripped back, repaired, and redecorated using a combination of National Trust-approved paints and stains to suit the setting.

To improve functionality for guests, we created a new ground floor shower room by partitioning part of the dining area and forming a new access from the entrance hall. Plumbing was routed beneath the hallway by lifting floorboards and running services to the rear of the property. The room was finished in classic tiling and makes the property more practical for six guests.

Another significant alteration was the creation of a new opening between the kitchen and dining room. At around one metre wide and left open, it provided a natural flow between the two spaces while still preserving the building’s traditional feel. The kitchen itself was selected by the National Trust design team, with Dorset Build providing input on layout and functionality. The design featured a classic cottage style with powder blue cabinetry, solid oak worktops, and integrated modern appliances—striking a careful balance between charm and convenience.

To complete the internal reconfiguration, an existing opening into the neighbouring Customs House was bricked up and refinished to permanently divide the two properties. All joinery was stripped back and redecorated, with walls and ceilings finished in National Trust-approved colours for a consistent heritage look throughout.

Alongside this, we carried out a full refurbishment of Customs House—the smaller, studio-style let next door. Works included the removal of a stud partition wall, reconfiguration of the internal layout, installation of a new bathroom and services cupboard, and a new kitchen. Much of the interior was finished in tongue and groove cladding, which had to be carefully removed, repaired, and in places reinstated to allow for new electrical and plumbing services.

The old WC and shower room were stripped out and replaced with a more spacious, traditionally styled bathroom, finished with new tiling and sanitaryware. A compact, efficient kitchen was installed to better utilise the limited space, offering all the modern facilities expected by guests while retaining the building’s timeless charm. As with Agents House, all panelling and joinery were finished with National Trust-approved paints.

Despite the logistical challenges of working on an island, and the tight five-week programme, Dorset Build delivered a high-quality, detailed renovation that met all the client’s expectations. This project highlights our flexibility, organisation, and commitment to excellence—even under pressure. Through careful planning, traditional craftsmanship, and seamless collaboration with the National Trust, we’ve helped ensure these beautiful island retreats are ready to welcome guests for years to come.

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