[13][14]The cottages fenestration is mostly of the perpendicular gothic style, with rectangular openings inset with deeply recessed lancet windows.

[15] These ornate features were constructed, not from stone, but from moulded terracotta bricks, made locally at George Jennings' South Western Pottery factory in Parkstone.

[13] The mock arrow slits that feature in the gables of the cottages, may appear purely decorative, yet also served a role in aiding ventilation within.

This decorative cypher, found on the gable, was designed by Charles Barry Jr. and bears the coat of arms of the Guest family and features the date it was built.

[14] With the terraced cottages in Canford Magna, the front door opened into the living-room and behind was an incredibly narrow strip of kitchen, with stairs to small bedrooms, one of which is the landing.

To the rear of the properties was a small building divided across the boundary, which served as a pig sty and housed a privy.

[14] The estate worker tenants were charged a mere 1 shilling per week rent for the cottages, further emphasising the philanthropy of the Guests.

[18] A 1900 study conducted by Seebohm Rowntree found that the average rent for a private three-bed house was five shillings.