Average Build Costs in Dorset – 2025 Guide
If you’re planning to build in Dorset this year, one of the first questions you’ll want answered is: “How much will it cost?”
Build costs vary depending on location, design, and specification, but having a clear guide helps set realistic expectations and avoid surprises. Based on 2025 data and our experience working across Dorset, here’s what you can expect.
Typical Build Costs in Dorset (2025)
New Build Homes
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Standard specification: £2,200 – £2,500 per m²
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High-end specification: £2,500 – £3,200+ per m²
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Luxury/architect-designed homes: £3,500+ per m²
Extensions & Alterations
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Single-storey extension: £2,300 – £2,500 per m²
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Two-storey extension: £2,500 – £2,800 per m²
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Loft conversion: £1,500 – £2,200 per m²
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Garage conversion: £1,200 – £1,800 per m²
Renovations & Refurbishments
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Light refurbishment: £900 – £1,400 per m²
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Full renovation/modernisation: £1,500 – £2,500 per m²
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Listed building works: £2,500 – £3,500+ per m² (highly variable)
Factors That Affect Costs in Dorset
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Location: Costs can be higher in coastal towns (Poole, Bournemouth, Lyme Regis) due to demand and access issues.
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Specification: Kitchens, bathrooms, glazing, and finishes are the biggest cost drivers.
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Site conditions: Sloping sites, groundworks, drainage, and access can add 10–20%.
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Professional fees: Architects, engineers, and planning consultants usually add 10–15% on top of build costs.
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Inflation & labour: Construction inflation remains high in 2025, with skilled labour in Dorset still at a premium.
Cost-Saving Tips
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Keep design simple: Complex shapes, rooflines, and glazing add cost.
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Plan early: Securing planning and detailed design upfront avoids costly variations.
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Use local contractors: Regional firms can often deliver better value than national chains.
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Prioritise energy efficiency: While upfront costs may be higher, running costs will be lower long-term.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, the average build cost in Dorset typically ranges between £2,300 and £3,000 per m², depending on the type of project and level of finish. With careful planning and the right professional guidance, you can achieve excellent value for money.
At Celona Consulting, we work with homeowners and developers across Dorset to plan, design, and deliver cost-effective projects that meet budget and exceed expectations.