Why Butterfield & Son?

Our Story

At Butterfield and Son, craftsmanship runs in the family. As a father and son team based in Dorset, England, we specialise in the creation of artisan shepherd huts and outdoor spaces, built to stand the test of time.

Our journey began in 1993, when Eddie Butterfield restored an original Lott and Walne shepherd hut from Dorchester. Long before shepherd huts became a modern trend, Eddie was at the forefront of the movement—building, restoring, and perfecting them for both private and business clients. Over the years, his expertise has been recognised across the industry, featuring in magazines and on television as an expert no less than six times. Renowned designers, including Charlie Luxton, have described his work as “perfection” on air.

Harry, Eddie’s son, grew up surrounded by the craft. From an early age, he absorbed the traditional techniques passed down through generations, even trying his hand at blacksmithing at just eight years old. After completing a four-year apprenticeship as a marine electrician with the RNLI, Harry returned to the family business, bringing fresh energy and innovation while staying true to its roots.

But our story goes back even further. Craftsmanship is in our blood—Eddie’s great-grandfather, Thomas Butterfield, was a wagon and carriage builder in the 1870s, and his grandfather, William Butterfield, managed a railway repair works in the 1920s. We still use some of the very same hand tools today, each one stamped with initials over 90 years old, a tangible connection to our heritage.

At Butterfield and Son, we believe in more than just building shepherd huts—we’re keeping a legacy alive. Our huts are not just structures; they are timeless, functional spaces, built with sustainable local materials and tailored to each customer’s needs. Every hut is crafted with the same skill, precision, and pride that has defined our family’s work for generations.

Built for life. Inspired by tradition. Crafted for you.

Watch Us in Action on Channel 4's "Great British Home Restoration"

Craftsmanship

At Butterfield and Son, every shepherd hut is handcrafted with traditional techniques that set us apart from mass-produced alternatives. We use mortise and tenon joinery, hand-forged ironwork, and bespoke windows and doors, all made in-house for superior quality.

We build each hut with meticulous attention to detail, from the hand-brushed paintwork to the solid timber frame. Unlike factory-made options, we never use pre-fabricated panels or synthetic materials. Every Butterfield hut is a true labour of craftsmanship—built to last for generations.

Materials

The finest huts start with the finest materials. We use locally sourced timber from sustainably managed woodlands just five miles from our workshop, ensuring superior quality and ethical sourcing. Douglas fir, Western red cedar, and larch form the heart of our construction, with each piece carefully sawn and seasoned on-site.



We offer galvanised steel roofing (never plastic-dipped sheeting) and solid wood flooring (never laminate). Our handcrafted joinery ensures a perfect fit, and we finish interiors with natural oils, beeswax, or low-VOC paints, avoiding harmful chemicals. Every detail is chosen for durability, authenticity, and sustainability.

Service

We offer a fully bespoke experience, working closely with each client from initial consultation to final installation. Whether you need a home office, guest space, or luxury retreat, we tailor every element—from layout and finishes to electrical and heating options.



Clients can visit our Dorset workshop during the build, and we provide regular updates. On delivery, we ensure the hut is positioned, levelled, and ready to use. With decades of expertise, our service goes beyond just building huts—we create spaces designed around your lifestyle.

Sustainability

Sustainability is at the core of our craft. We use locally sourced, sustainably managed timber and British wool insulation for natural climate control. Avoiding plastic and composite materials, we prioritise natural finishes like beeswax and low-VOC paints to create a healthier living space.



Much of our ironwork is forged on-site from all chassis ironwork to door hooks and curtain poles, ensuring durability and authenticity. Where necessary, we source high-quality components to complement our craftsmanship. By handling our own timber processing, we minimise waste and transport emissions, ensuring each hut is built with integrity, responsibility, and respect for the environment.

OUR MISSION