Dorset House Listed Building Refurbishment | Dorset House

Value:

£565,000

Timescale:

14 weeks

This Art Deco reception area is truly a one off .

A newly refurbished lobby or reception area showcasing a contemporary and high-end design. At the center is a circular reception desk with a sleek black and metallic finish, serving as the visual anchor of the space. Suspended above the desk are large, modern circular light fixtures that provide both ambient lighting and a striking design element. The flooring around the desk features an intricate, custom pattern that adds texture and visual interest, suggesting a premium material choice. In the background, a staircase leads to an upper level, indicating a multi-floor layout. Additional ceiling-mounted lighting fixtures contribute to a well-lit, welcoming atmosphere. The refurbishment emphasizes luxury, spatial flow, and a strong first impression for visitors.

Listed building refurbishment formed the focus of Virtus’ works at Dorset House, a Grade II listed property in the heart of Marylebone. The project combined extensive refurbishment with upgraded electrical services, new finishes and carefully considered alterations to the building’s historic interior.

Throughout the project, our team worked carefully around the building’s original features. In particular, the handcrafted walls, timber detailing and existing decorative elements required a sensitive approach.

Heritage Refurbishment and Building Services

The project included significant upgrades to the property’s electrical services. We introduced new power infrastructure and scene-setting lighting throughout the works. In addition, new floor trunking accommodated upgraded services while integrating with the refurbished interior.

Our team also created a new vestibule incorporating panelling, flooring, lighting and ceiling finishes. Importantly, we retained the existing decorative coving wherever possible. Where sections required intervention, we carried out extensive repairs and recasting to maintain the character of the original interior.

This approach allowed the listed building refurbishment to introduce modern services while respecting the architectural features that contribute to Dorset House’s distinctive identity.

Art Deco Reception Refurbishment

The reception refurbishment included new decorations, lighting, carpets and a distinctive Art Deco-style reception desk. In addition, we incorporated access ramps and bespoke handrails to improve movement through the space.

The combination of new elements and carefully restored existing features created a refreshed reception while remaining sympathetic to the character of the Grade II listed building.

Refurbishment Within an Occupied Building

Dorset House remained operational 24 hours a day throughout the project and contained 140 flats. Consequently, logistics, safety and access management played an important role in the delivery strategy.

Our team carefully segregated the working areas from residents and other building users. Meanwhile, we kept corridors and escape routes clear to maintain safe access throughout the works.

Careful organisation also helped the construction team manage the challenges of working within a busy residential environment. As a result, the refurbishment could progress while the building continued to operate.

Specialist Listed Building Refurbishment

The completed listed building refurbishment combines upgraded building services and contemporary requirements with the careful treatment of existing heritage features.

Through considered planning and close attention to the historic fabric, Virtus delivered improvements to the reception and common areas while respecting the established character of Dorset House. The project demonstrates our approach to refurbishment within listed and heritage properties, where modernisation must work alongside the protection of original architectural details.

Project Gallery

Refurbished reception area with a central circular desk in a metallic finish, featuring the letters “DH.” Overhead, two large circular light fixtures add a modern touch. The floor showcases a geometric patterned design, while double doors with brass handles lead into the space. A marble-paneled wall and doorway to an adjacent area complete the upscale, contemporary look.

A newly installed reception area featuring a striking circular reception desk with the initials "DH" prominently displayed on the front. The desk is finished with sleek horizontal metallic lines, contributing to a polished and contemporary aesthetic. Overhead, large circular pendant light fixtures provide ambient illumination and serve as bold design elements. The flooring beneath the desk showcases an intricate patterned carpet, adding texture and visual sophistication to the space. The backdrop includes elegant marble walls and a set of double doors, reinforcing a sense of luxury and professionalism. The refurbishment highlights premium materials, modern lighting, and a cohesive design language aimed at creating a memorable first impression.

A newly refurbished building entrance featuring two sleek glass doors framed by vertically illuminated panels, creating a modern and inviting entryway. The right-hand door is open, with a person exiting, while the central view through the doors reveals a brightly lit lobby area, suggesting a clean and contemporary interior design. The lighting elements integrated into the door frames enhance visibility and add a high-end architectural touch. The refurbishment emphasizes accessibility, improved lighting, and a welcoming first impression.

Refurbished lobby entrance featuring double glass doors with gold handles, opening into a modern space with black walls and gold accents. A circular reception desk marked “DH” sits centrally on dark tiled flooring. Overhead, decorative ceiling lights enhance the upscale, contemporary design. The refurbishment highlights luxury finishes and a strong visual identity.

A stylish, circular hallway featuring a curved railing and a decorative ceiling with circular patterns. Soft lighting creates a warm ambiance, and the floor is covered with plush carpet displaying a geometric design. A door is visible in the background, leading to another room.

A freshly refurbished corridor featuring clean white walls and a patterned carpet that adds texture and visual rhythm to the space. The hallway is illuminated by evenly spaced round ceiling light fixtures, providing consistent and energy-efficient lighting. A mirrored column on the left side enhances the sense of space and reflects light, contributing to a brighter, more open feel. Small high-level windows on the right wall introduce natural light while maintaining privacy. At the far end, an open doorway leads to another area, suggesting a continuous and accessible layout. The refurbishment emphasizes brightness, spatial clarity, and a modern, professional finish.

Awards and Accreditations

We are committed to being recognised as a modern forward thinking construction company and realise the importance of meeting the standards and expectations of our customers and in recognition of this we are members of Constructionline and CHAS, whilst also having accreditation under ISO9001 & ISO1400.