Feature: Home of Lawrence of Arabia protected for future generations

His life was immortalised in the blockbuster movie Lawrence of Arabia, widely considered one of the greatest and most influential films in the history of cinema and winner of seven Hollywood Oscars.

The humble home in Dorset where T.E. Lawrence was a prolific writer was Tuesday granted a high-listing status by the British government to ensure it will be protected for generations to come.

What was the only adult home of the iconic diplomat and writer has been upgraded to a Grade II listing by Heritage Minister Tracey Crouch.

The cottage, Clouds Hill, in Dorset served as Lawrence's retreat from barrack life where he would entertain his friends and wrote most of his famous books. Famous visitors to his home included Lady Nancy Astor, Siegfried Sassoon and Augustus John.

Lawrence reconstructed the partly-derelict cottage during 1923-35 to his specifications and needs, preferring the simplicity of the small and unheated building. Since his death in 1935, the cottage has remained unaltered and preserved as he left it.

Heritage Minister Crouch said: "This wonderful house held a special place in T.E. Lawrence's heart and gives us a glimpse into the home life of one of the most iconic writers and influential diplomats of the 20th century. This extra protection will preserve the building and T.E. Lawrence's extraordinary legacy for years to come.

Deborah Williams from Historic England said: "Clouds Hill deserved to be upgraded to Grade II in recognition of the importance of Lawrence's life and the particular place which the cottage held in his heart. In 1923, he rebuilt the once-derelict cottage dating from 1808, making the fittings and furnishings himself, so it is very evocative of his personality and interests."

Helen Mann, the general manager for the National Trust which cares for Clouds Hill, said: "The tiny, isolated cottage, which re-opens for visitors on March 8, offers a real insight into the reflective, private and complex character of Lawrence. The rooms and contents remain much as he left them and the cottage is full of atmosphere."

The film depicts Lawrence's experiences in the Arabian Peninsula during World War I, in particular his attacks on Aqaba and Damascus and his involvement in the Arab National Council.

In 1991, Lawrence of Arabia was deemed "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" and selected for preservation in the United States Library of Congress National Film Registry. Endit