Bysetters Cottage, a beautiful period property in East Sussex, required a complete programme of refurbishment to restore its charm while addressing significant maintenance issues. Asletts Ltd, trusted residential builders, were appointed to deliver both external and internal renovation works. The project required a sensitive approach to preserve the cottage’s heritage character while ensuring durability, modern performance and a high-quality finish throughout.
Client: Bysetters Cottage, East Sussex
Project Duration: 8 weeks
East Sussex
The homeowners wanted to bring their cottage back to life, creating a property that was not only visually appealing but also structurally sound and weatherproof. Key objectives included:
• Repairing and upgrading the roofing and rainwater systems to secure the property against the elements
• Carrying out timber repairs to preserve the original character while ensuring long-term structural integrity
• Replacing external timber cladding to improve both weather protection and appearance
• Delivering a full internal and external redecoration to refresh and modernise the property
The main challenge was maintaining the traditional style and authenticity of the cottage while incorporating modern materials and techniques for improved performance.
Asletts’ team of skilled builders and refurbishment specialists carried out a full programme of works, including:
• Roofing & Guttering: Repaired and repointed the roof for weather protection, with new guttering and downpipes installed to improve drainage and reduce future maintenance
• Cladding Replacement: Removed all existing cladding and replaced it with new high-quality timber cladding, enhancing durability and preserving the cottage’s traditional aesthetic
• Timber Repairs: Treated and repaired decayed areas of external timber, maintaining original materials wherever possible
• Glazing Upgrades: Replaced selected glass panes to improve insulation and restore clarity without compromising the heritage appearance
• Decoration: Completed a full internal and external redecoration, carefully selecting finishes to respect the property’s period character while achieving a fresh, long-lasting result
The project was delivered on time and to an exceptional standard. Bysetters Cottage now benefits from a watertight roof, durable new cladding, carefully repaired timberwork and refreshed internal and external finishes. The upgrades have given the property a new lease of life, improving both its day-to-day functionality and long-term performance.
This case study demonstrates Asletts’ strength as expert builders in Eastbourne for heritage and residential refurbishment projects. Their attention to detail and craftsmanship ensured the successful transformation of this period property.
The homeowners were delighted with the result, stating:
“We couldn’t be happier with the work carried out by Linden and his team. From start to finish, they were professional, reliable, and clearly take great pride in what they do. The cottage has been completely transformed — the roof and guttering are now watertight, the new cladding looks fantastic, and the internal and external decorations have really brought the place back to life. They also carried out some much-needed timber repairs and replaced the glazing with great care and attention to detail. The whole process was smooth and well-managed, and the quality of the finish is outstanding. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them and will definitely use them again in the future.”
