Articles and Press Releases - Building and Bricklaying Contractors

Oakenstead Estates and Cullen Bricklaying Recognised by the Royal Family for Poundbury Construction Excellence

As trusted building contractors in Dorset we take pride in delivering exceptional quality, and our long-standing reputation as specialist brickwork contractors Cullen Bricklaying is no exception.

Our dedication to high standards of craftsmanship was formally recognised during a landmark moment in Poundbury's development: the visionary urban extension of Dorchester spearheaded by Prince Charles (now HM King Charles III) during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.

Paul and John Cullen as representatives of Oakenstead Estates and Cullen Bricklaying, were honoured with an invitation to a royal lunch and a personal audience with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles. The occasion marked the unveiling of the Queen Mother’s Statue in Queen Mother Square, a central feature of the Poundbury development.

This royal recognition celebrated our combined work on major residential construction projects within Poundbury, including sites developed by Morrish Builders and C.G. Fry & Son. Our craftsmanship and commitment to traditional building methods were specifically mentioned in Prince Charles’s speech, reflecting the importance of using skilled local building contractors and brickwork experts in realising the architectural ideals of the community.

At Oakenstead Estates, we continue to uphold these values on every project, blending experience, integrity, and attention to detail to help shape sustainable and characterful developments across the South of England.

Specialist Brickwork & Stonework Features

by Cullen Bricklaying

At Cullen Bricklaying, we pride ourselves on delivering specialist bricklaying and stonework services for large-scale residential and commercial developments across the South of England. With over 35 years of experience, our skilled teams bring precision, artistry, and structural integrity to every project.

We are trusted by leading housebuilders for traditional build and timber frame construction for our ability to execute complex brickwork features and bespoke masonry detailing that elevate the architectural quality of any development.

Our Specialist Brickwork & Masonry Services Include:

Brick on Edge with Tile Creasing – Ideal for decorative cappings and detailing, offering both durability and visual appeal.
Curved Brickwork & Curved Stonework – Precision-built curves for walls, facades, and garden features.
Cock and Hen Detailing – Traditional brickwork technique for heritage-style finishes.
Feature Brickwork – Custom designs that enhance kerb appeal and architectural character.
Semi-Circle Arches – Structurally sound and aesthetically striking archways.
Stone Piers & Brick Piers – Strong, elegant entrance features and boundary markers.
Dog Tooth & Dental Work – Intricate brick detailing for cornices and parapets.
Corbelled Stone Copings – Traditional coping techniques for a refined finish.
Gables & Copings – Weather-resistant and visually distinctive roofline features.