"blocks and bricks"

Our newest designed cast iron 225x225 air brick allows for an unprecedented free area of 28,000mm2. It is known as the MAX9 air brick and has recently been cast in Oxfordshire, near Cotswolds and is ideally suited to period properties looking for enhanced ventilation. Existing customers include Prime Minister Cameron for installation in Chequers as well as Jesus College Cambridge

The ChallengeThe design of two new This large urban regeneration project in Pennywell, Edinburgh, included 719 new dwellings. It comprised four different brownfield areas with existing communities between them, meaning that linkage with the existing communities is essential.Homes are arranged around a central open space within an area characterised by low density housing.The predominant material in the overall development is brick – chosen for its durable, long-lasting qualities and ability to introduce consistency and identity. Zinc cladding, white brick and render, with key entrances defined by coloured blocks, also feature.The SolutionThe design used a simple palette of materials and approach to detailing, to bring a consistent and clear identity. The focus is on attractive, simple proportions, both in the form of the buildings and in the development of the elevations.Two types of brick were proposed: one a red/brown multitone and the other a light brown/red multitone; to be used in conjunction with grey and dark grey rooftiles. The brick selected was Village Harvest Multi for it was consistent with the design and referenced developments nearby.The BenefitsThe architecture used throughout the development provides quality and variety.The buildings complement each other and create a distinct character and identity. The feature materials add to the rhythms and patterns in the elevations to create variety in the streetscape and mark key corners and frontages.The extensive development is a result of an investment of £42 million by the City of Edinburgh Council and includes £7.9 million grant funding from the Scottish Government.

Poundbury is an urban extension to the town of Dorchester. Developed over a period of nearly 30 years, and designed to a masterplan by Leon Krier, Poundbury has been an extraordinarily influential demonstration of the Prince of Wales’s vision for new mixed-use development. The development started in 1993 and is expected to complete in 2025.The development is notable for its use of traditional materials such as clay brick, distinctive architecture, and its mix of residential and commercial uses. It also includes a number of affordable housing developments, which is one of the key aims of the project; 35% of homes being built in Poundbury are affordable housing for rent, shared ownership or discounted sales.Since 2009 much of the development has been the responsibility of Ben Pentreath Ltd who has created a variety of architectural styles throughout the development which is based on what local housebuilders are able to do best. A high level of detail is notable throughout and will continue into future phases of the development, including the Urban Quarter, which will be more representative of London’s built aesthetic.Freshfield Lane’s ever-popular Lindfield Yellow, First Quality Multi’s and Selected Darks are in frequent use throughout Poundbury, where their combined characteristics help to reaffirm the grandeur of the project, while also providing a comforting, familiar sense of style. The lighter tones of the bricks help to add to the already noticeable sense of space created by the architects and help to settle the extremities of the expansion into the picturesque, surrounding Dorset scenery.Special thanks to Taylor Maxwell

Monier Road is a residential project designed by Pitman Tozer Architects in East London’s Fish Island neighbourhood. The development comprises of 16 houses and 7 apartments, constructed in two rows with a shared courtyard between them. The buildings are arranged in a stepped configuration, with the taller apartments on the east side and the lower houses on the west side, providing views across the site towards the River Lea.Monier Road uses an eyecatching combinatrion of Floren.be’s Vecchio and Vega Rustic clay bricks. The soft brown and pinks of the bricks allow Monier Road to maintain a distinct visual identity from other Fish Island regeneration projects.The Monier Road development has received critical acclaim for its innovative design and high-quality construction. It was shortlisted in the Housing Design Awards in 2017 and 2019 and featured in numerous architectural publications. The project demonstrates Pitman Tozer Architects’ commitment to creating sustainable and socially inclusive communities through thoughtful and well-designed residential developments.

An ambitious self-build project can provide the perfect opportunity to infuse a new home with creative flair, character and lasting appeal. Bringing together these attributes was front of mind for Luke Lawrence, an experienced builder and property developer, when imagining two adjacent family homes for a recent scheme in the affluent commuter town of Hornchurch in Essex. The prime location demanded something quite special and the finished project delivers with a development that marries an attractive, characterful aesthetic with a timeless, contemporary build, achieved with the help of Vandersanden’s multi-coloured Lithium facing bricks.To find out more about the bricks used in this project or to see the wide range of high-quality bricks available from Vandersanden, click on the 'View more' link 

Duke Court is a development of 37 affordable homes for rent, built on the site of Fred Styles House, formerly a sheltered housing block, providing 42 bedsits, that had been empty since 2013. The development is part of Royal Borough of Greenwich’s commitment to delivering new high-quality homes and sustainable communities.The new development of 29 houses, 7 flats and 1 maisonette creates a pretty neighbourhood of terraced houses running along Charlton Church Lane, and a series of mews streets which run perpendicular connecting into the urban fabric behind the site. Glazed screens lead into a generous open plan kitchen dining room. Stairs lead up to bedrooms and to a light and airy open plan living room with fully glazed screens leading out onto a secluded sun trap roof terrace.The buildings along Charlton Church Lane alternate in height between two, and three storeys. The houses are built from a beautiful soft and rustic brick that helps ensure that the new homes feel embedded and ‘worn in’ to the surrounding area. The brick selected was Forterra’s Ecostock Belgravia Gault Blend. Its varied tone is important for ensuring the new homes do not feel too monolithic adding visual interest, factors that were integral to reassuring planners that the brick would be sensitive to its surrounding context.Low cost, robust but high quality brick detailing is integral to the project. Traditionally built brick arches front a number of the homes and help create a semi-private space where people can put out pots and plants, wellies and umbrellas etc. Snapped headers create tightly curved external walls where the site requires thinner accommodation. Other brick details include projecting brick surrounds to pop-up windows, arched window heads, soldier and header courses, articulated parapets and beautiful angled window reveals on prominent corners.

Geraint Thomas House in Crawley is a 9-storey new build development of 91 modern homes, designed to impeccably high standards by Ayre Chamberlain Gaunt and Claylens Mills with the additional aspiration of setting a future benchmark for other developments in the area.The apartments have been designed to meet the needs of modern families, with spacious living areas and plenty of storage space. Two-thirds of the apartments are available through shared ownership schemes, making them more affordable for local residents.One of the key features of the development is its incredibly detailed brickwork. The brick façades provide a striking contrast to the glass and steel of the surrounding buildings, and playful patterns create a distinct and detailed façade that stands further sets it apart from previously built local projects. Delicate shades of bronze are prevalent amongst the building’s rain-screen cladding and balustrades.A bespoke blend of Blockleys Sterling Grey and Black Wirecut bricks adds a premium sheen to a project that already oozes impressive aesthetics and cuts a unique shape into Crawley’s existing architecture. Geraint Thomas House was recently shortlisted in the Medium Housing Development at the 2022 BDA Brick Awards.

The Shield is a £18.4m development located on the east side of Newcastle city centre - a regeneration area previously occupied by light industrial buildings, a brick-build office and a warehouse. Comprising of three blocks of student accomodation extending seven storeys at Stoddard Street to the east, this scheme steps down to four storeys at Clarence Street to the west.This building features a refined palette of materials including brick, aluminium and bronze coloured cladding in a range of natural colours to animate the facade. Visible aluminium frame windows punctuate the mass of three blocks and provide a significant aesthetic impact. Installed in a vertical configuration to contrast with the cladding's horizontal lines, side-hung, open-out windows were mostly used with some top-hung, open-out vents - all fitted with exclusive TECHNAL hardware including locking handles and releasable restrictors. Visible Grid Curtain walling is also utilised in this project for its durability and design flexibility. Featured to enhance daylighting in communal spaces, it was installed at ground level alongside aluminium doors, and at height alongside the windows - adding interest by visually zig-zagging on alternate floors.Within walking distance of Northumbria University's City Campus East, and the main Newcastle University Campus, The Shield offers a mix of self-contained studio flats and en-suite bedrooms with shared kitchens and houses up to 400 students.

With over 1,000 pupils at the school, Walthamstow Academy's Board of Governors required a gender-neutral toilet block that could accommodate all its students regardless of their gender – creating a more inclusive environment.Read the full case study on our website.

Close to the historic market town of Nantwich, renowned for its medieval timbered architecture, Chamberlain Developments in association with DEP Architects have created nine bespoke two, three and four-bedroom homes in the wonderful bucolic village setting of Acton. Eighty intricate Keystone brick slip feature lintels feature across the ground and first floor door and window openings on the phase two development.ChallengeThe new homes are sympathetically placed around the restored and converted traditional 18th century farmhouse, ancillary barns and outbuildings from the initial phase one development, situated near the 13th century St. Mary’s Church. The architecture plans specified a combination of bespoke brick slip flat gauge arches, parabolic arches and bullseye lintels, each requiring a flawless brick surround finish in keeping with the heritage sensitivity of the site.The plans received from T G Builders Merchant originally included brick slip lintels for the front and rear elevations only, however, Keystone’s team were able to offer Chamberlain Developments a solution for the other more intricate brick details and the specification was therefore increased to include additional brick slip flat gauge arches and bullseye lintels for the side elevations.SolutionKeystones dedicated technical team ensured each bespoke lintel was manufactured to size, shape and aesthetic requirements within the project build schedule. A consignment of bricks were collected from site, cut and bonded offsite onto load bearing lintels using a BBA approved construction adhesive. The weatherproof controlled environment helped to guarantee a high quality brick finish and eliminated delays onsite from disruptive weather conditions.The flat gauge arches were designed with a 70-degree brick skew and all lintels were suited to a wall construction of 325mm, 215mm brick height and 102.5mm soffit return, removing the need for skilled labour onsite. The prefabricated brick slip lintels were delivered to site ready for final pointing, with larger and heavier lintels including lifting hooks for an easier and safer installation.Testimonial“We have specified Keystone many times before and have always been impressed with both the company’s products and customer support. At our Church Farm development, the brick slip feature lintels played a key part in the design of the new build homes. They look fantastic and the excellent detailing ensures they blend seamlessly with the rest of the brickwork.”Richard BullockContracts Manager at Chamberlain Developments

In Rugby, 57 aerial masts and a radio station are the genesis for the beginning of a new town, centred around the recently finished Houlton School. The carefully considered design of the School by Van Heyningen & Haward (VHH), is the successful retrofit of a collection of historic, grade 2 listed radio station buildings. Its cost-effective evolution into a thriving, sustainable secondary school comes through the careful integration of the previous buildings and by choosing to use products that fitted soundly within the pre-existing vernacular.Adapting the original framework to today’s standards was a job that took years to come to fruition, careful application of steel frame and the restoration of the original brickwork has meant that the two main listed structures, Transmission Hall and Power Hall will become a place of learning for generations of students. Handmade clay bricks provided by Michelmersh were vital to the restoration of the project, where they were used to ensure the structures could be repaired and retained rather than rebuilt from the ground up.Throughout the project, various elements of the building's industrial past have been retained, with arched windows and high ceilings to ensure that the history of this nearly century-old building is revered, but not overpowering compared to its newly instated modern sensibilities.Houlton School recently won the Refurbishment Category at the BDA Brick Awards.

Belle Vue is a 5,700 square metre retirement community of 60 one and two-bedroom apartments in Hampstead, designed by Morris+Company. It’s surrounded by carefully landscaped gardens and manicured courts, with which it offers a communal environment for its residents.Inside the feeling of community is continued with a restaurant, cafe, library, spa, gym, lounges and activity rooms. All are thoughtfully considered to ensure the residents are catered for in all ways. Journeys throughout the project are open to communal areas as well for further social considerations.Due to Belle Vue’s surroundings, Floren.be’s Avorio brick was used to retain a similar, but a visually distinct homage to the brick structures in the multiple local conservation areas. The lightness and fluctuating tonality of the red Avorio allows the building to appear as light and airy externally as it is inside, due to its large windows, open plan layouts and community spaces.With a clientele whose average age is around 77, it’s insightful that Pegasus Life Pegasus Lifestory chose to hire from architectural practices who had no previous experience in the retirement sector. Modern sentiments are clearly visible throughout, but care and consideration are shown to its inhabitants where a calm environment is melded with the benefits of inner-city living.Belle Vue was recently shortlisted for the 2022 RIBA London awards.

CALA Homes Sold on Tobermore Complementary Facing Brick & Paving SolutionCALA Homes developed Kinleith Mill, a beautiful and distinctive new housing development in Currie to the west of Edinburgh, and in keeping with the housebuilders high quality standards, the team wanted to ensure that the most appropriate building and hard landscaping materials were sourced for the site. CALA Homes has been developing aspirational and award-winning homes across the UK for over 30 years, earning the company an excellent reputation. Tobermore’s Scottish Sales team introduced the housebuilder to the superior facing brick and paving products produced at Tobermore which surpassed expectation. Tobermore’s timeless Lansdowne facing brick was selected for incorporation on the properties at Kinleith Mill and vibrant Pedesta block paving was specified as a complementary hard landscaping solution.Alan Cole, Commercial Manager at CALA Homes, explained Yeoman McAllister Architects design concept for the project: “The design was inspired by the sites history and the idyllic location next to the Water of Leith in Currie.“The development offers a unique collection of four and five bedroom detached homes, three and four bedroom semi-detached houses, three bedroom waterside terraced properties and a select group of apartments, all new to the CALA portfolio.”The exteriors of the Kinleith Mill homes were designed with a combination finish of facing brick and dash. Alan explained that their choice of facing brick was made very easy when they were presented with Tobermore’s Lansdowne product. Lansdowne undergoes a tumbling manufacturing process that produces a charming weathered look and is ideal for applications that require a warm, elegant finish.Alan commented:“The aged aesthetic created a rustic look and we thought it was the perfect choice for the style and character desired at Kinleith Mill. While the inside of the properties were designed with modern interiors and amenities, we wanted to bring a touch of tradition to the exterior.Alan Cole, Commercial Manager at CALA Homes“In addition, we examined existing projects that Tobermore’s Lansdowne facing brick was used on and it was clear to see that the product performed well over time and showed no fading or discolouration.” Tobermore’s Lansdowne offers excellent colour retention capabilities due to the fact that the best iron oxide pigments available are sourced to produce the vibrant colours available within the range to ensure that colour is retained throughout the lifetime of a product.As well as the buildings, Lansdowne was incorporated on the bridge which connects the homes to the tranquil countryside surrounding the development. This created continuity across the aesthetics on site.The landscaping was an important element on site as the exterior of a property is crucial when appealing to new home buyers. Alan noted: “Paving was an obvious choice for the hard landscaping requirement as we knew it would enhance the appearance of the site more so than alternatives such as tarmac. Paving also offered benefits in that it is hard-wearing and should any blocks ever need replaced in the future, it is relatively easy and inexpensive to do so.”CALA Homes selected Tobermore’s Pedesta block paving as an attractive and versatile hard landscaping material. Pedesta is manufactured with a stunning, smooth finish and a rectangular profile that allows the creation of distinctive laying patterns. Alan noted:“Pedesta was the ideal paving product as it offered a beautiful yet simplistic finish that complemented the brick façade of the properties.”Alan Cole, Commercial Manager at CALA HomesThe properties at Kinleith Mill were highly sought after, ranging in price from £450,000- £670,000.Alan reflected on the project: “We couldn’t have hoped for a better result. Kinleith Mill is another development which we are incredibly proud of.“The products and the assistance provided by Tobermore was first class and we would have no hesitation working with the manufacturer again on future projects.”

Sugar House Island‘s Cooperage Yard is part of a transformative project just south of Olympic Park intending to create a distinctive urban environment that has been carefully designed to create a balance between work, life and leisure. Designed by Waugh Thistleton Architects it offers a stunning riverside view to its users.Set next to the Islands creative quarter, Cooperage Yard covers 8000ft2 over of the area. Its immediately recognisable sawtooth-shaped roof overlooks the river and courtyard. Natural light floods both floors of the building and a south-facing roof terrace offers further space for its inhabitants.Freshfield Lane’s Danehill Yellow bricks are immediately recognisable and offer a positive contrast to the tones of other nearby brick buildings. The tones are further complimented by shafts of natural light that penetrate the pathways between buildings. When combined, the colour language and open space create a sense of optimism between the structures.

The Stratosphere building in London, designed by Allies and Morrison, is a sleek and contemporary addition to the capital’s skyline. Its location in the Stratford area of London makes it a part of the vibrant cultural and business hub of East London.The building’s striking design is characterized by its distinctive saw-tooth facade, which is made up of a series of alternating angled and flat planes. The facade was inspired by the industrial heritage of the surrounding area, which was once home to factories and warehouses. The saw-tooth design also serves a practical purpose, allowing for maximum natural light to enter the building while minimizing solar gain and glare. The building’s interior spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable, making them suitable for a range of uses from office spaces to residential apartments.The Stratosphere building uses Floren.be’s Sirius clay bricks. The deep browns help set it apart from its contemporary counterpart and also speak to the industrial heritage of the area.

In recent years, Southwark Council encountered problems creating and maintaining attractively paved surfaces in busy carriageways. Tobermore introduced Southwark with a solution – the City Pave VS5 block paving system. The innovative product incorporates shift protection on five sides of each block via interlocking nibs and a specially profiled bottom surface that claws sand beds. These innovations provide continuous protection against shifting.

Vandersanden has launched a new online interactive Inspiration Guide ‘Sustainably Attractive Facades'. The specially curated brochure has been designed to both inspire and inform architects about the variety of bricks that Vandersanden offers and their potential to elevate any architectural project.  Mathew Davies, National Specification Manager Vandersanden UK comments: “We wanted to create an indispensable reference tool for architects to deliver not only essential information about the numerous brick finishes and styles that Vandersanden offers, but to share inspiration from some of the outstanding projects that feature our bricks. The brochure offers a comprehensive guide to all our brick shapes, sizes and colourways. We’re confident we have a product that’s suitable for all types of facades and every architect’s vision.” Specifier CollectionsThe guide offers a curated preview of Vandersanden’s wide range of solutions for specifiers, offering insights into the extensive choice of brick types; from hand-formed to wirecut bricks and beyond. Architects will also be able to learn more about the inspiring colour range of bricks available, including bright whites, contemporary greys, bold blacks, rustic reds, soft buffs/yellows and creative pastels.  Project InspirationThe new Inspiration Guide provides architects with inspiration from an impressive range of projects that have featured Vandersanden’s bricks, in all colours and textures. Specifiers can learn from the architects of the award-winning tranquil Spa at South Lodge or the outstanding City Law School, which seamlessly combines both traditional and contemporary architecture. Whether the project requires bricks of a more rich and rustic aesthetic, or a crisp and contemporary finish, Vandersanden can bring to life any architect’s creative vision.Focus on SustainabilityThe new Inspiration Guide also offers insights into Vandersanden’s commitment to sustainability and its drive to develop sustainable products, manufacturing processes and services which have a limited impact on the environment and ecosystem. The company shares an overview of its efforts and results in terms of sustainability and the past year’s performance shows that Vandersanden is on the right track towards CO2-neutrality by 2050. On-going Innovation & DevelopmentVandersanden is a company that continually innovates and this new guide aims to share some of the latest innovations that the company has launched. These include the new Texture Generator, an online tool which enables architects, property developers and other specifiers, to design a facade by combining, different types of bricks and brick slips, colours, laying patterns and joint thicknesses. In total, the texture generator allows more than 1.1 million combinations to be created and compared. The new Inspiration Guide also includes a summary of Vandersanden’s engaging and informative CPD webinars. The sessions are part of Vandersanden’s portfolio of learning and development tools, aimed at architects and specifiers, to help build their knowledge base and keep them updated on new techniques and innovations in brick manufacturing. Created by a team of Vandersanden’s expert professionals, the guide offers an invaluable digital tool to assist specifiers throughout the whole architectural process. Request your copy of ‘Sustainably Attractive Facades', here Request your Inspiration Guide | Vandersanden

Built on the site of Warranty House, a now demolished office building, Middle Yard is a residential development located on Dudden Hill Lane in London. The regenerative development consists of 136 new homes set back from the road, creating a much sought-after sense of privacy and space. In addition to the 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, there is also a communal garden, pool and onsite gym for Middle Yard’s residents to enjoy.Designed by Union Developments and Lynas Smith Architects, the development was completed in 2022 and has been extremely popular amongst buyers, with multiple apartments being reserved before completion. The brick-centric homes align with the bricks’ proven record of high durability and low maintenance, and the location is extremely convenient for commuting into central London with multiple transport links extremely close by. The development is also close to a number of amenities, including schools, shops and parks.Middle Yard has provided much-needed new homes in northwest London. The timeless brick construction and eye-catching modern design have helped to regenerate an area of the city. Freshfield Lane’s eye-catching Lindfield Yellow bricks provide unmistakable character to the project and help settle it into the urban environment.

Alma-nac's "House-within-a-house" is a fantastic example of a building retrofitted to adapt to new challenges. Sitting in a row of typical 1950's houses, the project gave an existing home a contemporary facelift while complimenting the surrounding buildings traditional London brick.12,670 Michelmersh bricks were used in the project to provide an economical and thermally efficient shell to the original building, which is nestled inside the outer structure. Elements of the project that may have ended up in landfill were reused where possible and the combination of reused concrete and the brick skin means an increase of thermal efficiency that could save 4 tonnes of Carbon a year.House-within-a-House recently won the "Individual Housing Development" in the 2021 Brick Awards, judges praised it's complementary nature to the area without "trying to mimic the naturally aged material".

Native’s flagship boutique aparthotel in the bankside conservation area of Bear Gardens is an eight-storey scheme that involves the transformation of three of the five buildings located within the confines of the densely packed area. IG’s brick feature arch lintels feature on the front elevation of the former derelict 19th century Empire Warehouse that has been replaced and linked into a 75-room boutique aparthotel.Challenge:SPPARC in association with Southwark Council, Macro Investments and Native wanted to demonstrate that modern architecture can successfully cohabit with the historic collection of buildings informed by the industrial heritage that dominates the southern bank of the River Thames.A carefully considered restoration and modern intervention was required for a cutting-edge contemporary mixed-use development, offering an urban experience for its users but remaining sensitive to the colourful history, conservation area and surrounding developments.Solution:IG’s technical team designed eighteen brick feature arch lintels to accommodate metal paned and arched factory styled windows. A 2718mm opening span and 143mm rise was required for each prefabricated lintel, each including a 338mm high face brick and 223mm soffit return with either a 78 or 90-degree end skew.The massing arrangement across each floor ensures that natural light is maximised throughout the building with the intricate brick detailing prominent at street level appearing above impressive double height foyer windows. The offsite construction method used negated the need for skilled brickwork to be created onsite to achieve the decorative brick pattern at a raised height. This helped to reduce any health and safety concerns in a location surrounded by tourist destinations and narrow cobbled streets.The ground floor of the scheme provides mixed use units with the northern site leased by Bell English Language School and the southern site providing studios for the iconic Globe Theatre directly linking to their Sackler Education Building.The upper floors are lighter in composition, combining clear and obscure floor-to-ceiling glazing with rich bronze circular rods, creating a strong rhythm to the façade, and enhancing the appearance of the once-dilapidated buildings. The upper floors of the Rose Alley elevation have perforated bronze screens that offer privacy, referencing the loom patterns that were once manufactured in the original warehouse.

As part of a three-year programme by Birmingham City Council to install fire sprinklers in 10,000 flats across 213 tower blocks, Pendock MXF sprinkler boxing is being used to conceal surface mounted pipework.Manufactured from pre-formed plywood and incorporating a white finish, MXF fire sprinkler boxing was specified, rather than on-site fabrication to provide a consistent and uniform finish while minimising the visual impact of the new fire safety measures in each tenant’s home.Also, it doesn’t require painting and typically takes less time to fit than site made alternatives, which helps reduce labour costs and minimises tenant disruption.

Designed by SPPARC Architecture as a place for living and a space for learning, the 14-storey Music Box is a mixed-use development incorporating a campus for the London College of Contemporary Media and 55 residential units, including on-site affordable housing. The three-dimensional projecting brickwork pattern, which required special bricks glazed on all visible surfaces, reads like a sheet of musical notes across the page, providing relief, rhythm and interest. Those able to read guitar tab may recognise that the brick patterns resemble Eric Clapton’s guitar riff in Cream’s song ‘White Room’.

James Watt Dock is a development of 137 new-build one- and two-bedroomed flats for social rent. The homes, built over five blocks, will offer residents magnificent views over the historic dock and the River Clyde. Residents will also benefit from parking, amenity units, and a landscaped public space.PROJECT INFOThe site is a brownfield waterfront site adjacent to the Grade A listed Sugar Sheds, which are a unique example of Scotland’s Victorian industrial architecture. The sheds became the design driver, aiding the architects in establishing mass, orientation, position and material.Farmstead Antique, from Forterra’s Butterley range, with its tumbled and distressed multi patches, was selected for its similarity to the bricks used in the Sugar Sheds. It allowed the design of the new development to relate to the historic building while delivering a modern, clean-cut façade.With a water absorbency of only 7%, the brick also offered the high technical performance required owing to the development’s location on the Firth of the Clyde, a robust marine environment.

Handley Street is a small, residential development located within the central conservation area in the Lincolnshire market town of Sleaford.Originally an old, derelict office block, the site now provides six new, much-needed starter homes for the town. Each of the high-specification homes offers two bedrooms, underfloor heating, bi-fold doors to a private garden, and off-road parking, all within a few short steps to the town’s high street.Planning restrictions associated with the conservation area required the use of traditional materials, including timber, sliding sash windows, slate roofs, chimney stacks and brickwork that would match Handley Street’s older buildings, which are built in a vibrant orange brick featuring textural deviation and which was excavated locally.For the new properties, Forterra’s Butterley Breckland Multi Reserve was selected as a good match to the older brick. Varying bonds, that show stretchers as well as headers, have been introduced in the main facing brickwork, complementing the older properties nearby.

Woodcote House is the contemporary, carefully designed and sustainable replacement for what was previously a series of buildings that had fallen into disrepair amongst the beautiful scenery provided by the South Downs National Park.Designed by Design Engine and Paul Cashin Architects, Woodcote House consists of four large bedrooms, an open plan living, dining and kitchen area and fitted with bespoke joinery the interior is flooded with natural light. Huge windows that allow for picturesque scenes to filter into the internal spaces.Freshfield Lane’s First Quality Multi were used to provide a homage to the original brick buildings that sat on the site prior to development, as well as allowing the structure to impact the environment minimally.

Westoe Crown Village by Taylor Wimpey is a development of 685 homes near South Shields, Newcastle. The coastal neighbourhood offers a range of apartments, three-storey townhouses and two-storey houses. Designed with the assistance of local community organisations to ensure an innovative and stimulating environment, Northumbria Police also assisted and advised on the best ways to reduce the potential of crime within the environment.Westoe Crown Village also introduced a village square, primary and nursery school, community centre, healthy living facility, shops and offices – all essential for a growing area of Newcastle. The centre of the village was also designed to have a crucial emphasis on disabled access with ramps, dropped curbs and a lack of barriers implemented so as to create a fully accessible centre for those with additional needs.Carlton’s Ridings Gold Antique clay bricks were used to exemplary effect in the construction of the project with the soft pink, orange and red hues providing a summer-y, pleasant glow to the area, perfect for its close proximity to the beach. The brick also provides a fitting complement to the featured off-white facades that surround certain buildings.

Halamar acquired this site in Beaconsfield. Planning permission was granted for a new build two-storey detached dwelling, replacing the existing residential property constructed in the 1900s.A comprehensive set of architecture plans specified high quality elevations with a ‘classical’ Georgian-esque design. The sub-contractors, B-Bespoke Design & Build Ltd, required Keystone’s brick slip flat gauge headers above multi-pane sash windows and an intelligent bespoke interconnecting brick slip splayed bay system across two floors on the side elevation.ChallengeThe design and scale of the building, along with the arrangement of fenestration and opening detailing, required the careful skill and use of sympathetic materials to ensure the development enhanced the special character of properties in close vicinity.B-Bespoke Design & Build Ltd considered the volume of decorative window openings and availability of local skilled bricklayers when considering the most effective and efficient approach to the build schedule.SolutionAn offsite construction method was deployed by the sub-contractor. Keystone’s technical team were contacted to design brick slip flat gauge headers accommodating brick spans between 1135mm to 1472mm. Each with a 70-degree end skew, 375mm high face brick and 102mm soffit return whilst also incorporating keystone stone headers above specific windows. The prefabricated lintels improved the allocation of time and resources elsewhere on site allowing the build to be completed to a high interior specification still with an exterior full of character.The rigid symmetrical design and gracious classic proportions create a generous sense of space and natural light, with stunning traditional period features created above each window opening. The interconnecting brick slip splayed bay system spans 1695mm and provides a stark contrast to the boxy room profiles often seen with a Georgian home. This architectural feature accommodates the high ceilings and desired aesthetics whilst providing effective structural support to withstand roof and masonry loads above.A consignment of bricks was collected from site and each brick cut and bonded using a BBA approved construction adhesive to the load bearing lintels offsite. The patented perforated lintel design allows the adhesive to squeeze through the perforations and form a ‘mushroom’ on the inside, providing a mechanical lock between the steel lintel and the brick slips.Testimonial“For the new build Georgian styled home, we sourced over thirty bespoke prefabricated brick slip feature lintels from Keystone as well as a unique interconnecting feature brick splayed bay system. As a smaller building contractor, we saved time and money using Keystone Lintels. We did not need to source additional skilled labour on site to create and replicate the intricate brick detailing which included Keystone stone headers. Ultimately this resulted in a faster build schedule for the client.”Nirmal DhaliwalSite Manager at B-Bespoke Design & Build Ltd

The ChallengeCarmichael Court is a new development of 14 one and two-bedroomed flats primarily intended for the elderly, and wholly for social rent.The scheme occupies the site of a Victorian villa in the town of Stevenston, Ayrshire. Traces of its former use remain – most notably in the form of a stone wall which extends around the northern and western boundaries of the site.The former War Memorial Institute, a handsome Victorian sandstone building which lies adjacent, has provided design cues for the Carmichael Court scheme.The scale of the surrounding context and the relatively confined nature of the site itself, required that the completed development be a restrained and sympathetic insertion into the existing townscape. The choice of facing brick would be integral to achieving this goal.The SolutionBelgravia Gault Blend by Ecostock was used throughout the scheme.It is a rich grey-buff stock brick that references the blonde sandstone buildings around the site, as well as the existing stone boundary walls.Projecting Flemish bond panels and recessed soldier courses create modelling and depth within the elevations of each block and enhance the overall character of the scheme.The BenefitsWhilst the Carmichael Court development is modest in its scope and conception, it is a carefully considered solution that closely aligns with immediate townscape. Working within the restrictions of a confined site has required greater emphasis to be placed on creating a more low-key and human scaled proposal, focusing on using the space available to create a meaningful and attractive environment.Ecostock is the most sustainable stock brick available in the UK. It is a high quality facing brick with recycled content. The range carries BES 6001 Responsible Sourcing certification.

The Confetti Building was designed by Allan Joyce Architects and completed in 2017. Built to provide a new area for students and include a cafe, LRC, motion capture suite, roof terrace and classrooms, it is intended to mature the institute with enough space for students after a period of rapid growth.The building embraces its industrial heritage with exposed ductwork, structure and brickwork but has been designed to ensure modern experiences are intertwined with the original spaces.A striking external facade is comprised of Blockleys Smooth black with a special BD1.3 shaped brick used for detailing. The Brickwork naturally compliments nearby red brick buildings and provides a balance to the wood and glass used around the building in other areas.

Built on the site of the former East London Bus Garage, The Forge creates 192 residential apartments clustered around communal courtyards. Working alongside installer Ravenworth, a two-million pound systems package of 1,000 aluminium windows, 170 aluminium patio doors and 20 aluminium commercial doors were provided to this project.The light buff buildings range from three to five storeys with a contrasting white brick 14-storey focal building. This forms the gateway to the development together with a row of interestingly designed townhouses. Each block displays frequent openings with contrasting areas of glazing and cladding, softened with balconies.

This development of 104 apartments was built on behalf of the Metropolitan Housing Trust by Guildmore on an infill site at Barrington Road, Brixton, which forms part of the Loughborough Estate.The project was designed to meet Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes and has been tested to meet BS8414 part 2 Fire Performance of External Cladding Systems.FastClad Brick Slip Rainscreen Cladding System was used on the tower elements at the end of the main block, the balconies, as well as the third and fourth floors of the main building.FastClad was chosen for it’s weight, ease of installation, fire properties, as well being indistinguishable from the areas of traditionally laid masonry

Victoria House is a £13 million 9-storey mixed-use development in Leeds. It consists of 106 apartments with offices on the ground floor. Victoria House is a stone’s throw from Leed’s city centre and St. James University Hospital. It provides affordable, high-quality homes to first-time buyers, key workers, graduates and those who work within the city.The development offers studio, 1-bed and 2-bedroom apartments, outdoor areas, ping pong tables and a basketball court with on-site concierge service for added security.Victoria House makes use of Carlton’s Wolds Minster Blend, its varied dark tones allow it to comfortably blend into pre-existing red brick vernacular whilst also creating its own identity amongst nearby green areas and surrounding buildings.

The Hawley Wharf Masterplan has transformed a neglected part of Camden Down into a thriving, vibrant destination that has enhanced the identity of the area while paying tribute to the classic intents of London’s unmistakable architectural heritage.Eight new buildings sit between existing railway viaducts and allowing for open public space and connecting the project to the wider area through re-established pedestrian pathways. A variety of homes, educational facilities, workplaces and more help solidify the area’s growth without straining its resources. Two refurbished Grade II listed buildings are also integrated into the development.Our Freshfield Lane First Quality Multi & Selected Dark bricks look fantastic on the vast Hawley Wharf development cleverly designed by AHMM Architects Hawley Wharf has been announced as the Winner of Winners at the 2021 Housing Design Awards.

The former Marlow Railway Station dates back to 1873 and stood at the junctions of Station Road and Lock Road. The Old Coal Yard, adjacent to a station platform now only present, has been developed and designed by Bellwood Homes on the concept of three converted Victorian railway terraced buildings.Broadsman House, Palatine Place and Fenman Court consist of three 2-bedroom houses, eight 2-bedroom apartments and one 1-bedroom apartment providing commuters stylish suburban living. Keystones brick slip feature arch lintels and special segmental arch lintels encompass the traditional and contemporary balance of the housebuilders architectural vision.ChallengeThe fashionable commuter town on the Thames has been well preserved, limiting modern styled developments to maintain its original character and historic fabric of heritage buildings. Bellwood homes wanted a sense of purpose for their regeneration project – reconnecting people with what really matters to them, property location and design. The vernacular architecture provides both. A prime location for commuters to ride the branch line into London, renown as the ‘Marlow Donkey’, and fits subtly within the notable context of Georgian, Edwardian and Victorian styles of architecture in Marlow.SolutionKeystone’s technical engineer designed extra heavy-duty brick slip feature arch lintels for ground, first and second floor openings with a 1085mm span and 543mm rise. Over forty brick slip arches were manufactured by Keystone’s production team to a high quality and consistent finish. Each Hoskins Maltings Antique brick was cut to size and bonded using a BBA approved construction adhesive to the load bearing lintels. The patented perforated lintel design allowed the adhesive to squeeze through the perforations and form a ‘mushroom’ on the inside, providing a mechanical lock between the steel lintel and the brick slips.The offsite economical solution did not require skilled bricklayers on site to replicate each traditional arch. This saved approximately labour costs of one bricklayer per arch per day and ultimately weeks of the project build schedule. All prefabricated lintels were delivered to site and ready for final pointing in line with the phased construction plan of the three buildings being erected. The arches produced in a factory control environment were unaffected by torrential weather and winter reduced day light hours limiting productivity. This can often occur on other build schedules which lead to further delays in creating architectural features with real significance to the landscape.The offsite construction method facilitated onsite construction further by supporting bricklayers to recreate window tax designs, bricked up window spaces seen in buildings from the Victorian period. The detail of the façade is prominent most through the repetition of window arches positioned symmetrically on elevations facing the Marlow station. Keystones heavy-duty special segmental arches measuring a 2400mm span, with either a 600mm or 450mm rise provide a modern contemporary twist which feature above glazed bedroom windows and are in complete contrast to the smaller traditional arched windows striking a balance between old and new architecture.Testimonial“From R&D to installation we found Keystones prefabricated lintels very efficient. They reduce brick wastage approximately by 5%. Typically, traditional built arches would require one bricklayer for approximately six hours work. Therefore, this reduced labour costs on site whilst supporting bricklayers to achieve the desired architectural design.”Matthew McGillSite Manager at Bellwood Homes

The first phase of Allies and Morrison‘s “Hale Wharf” development consists of 249 new homes across two buildings, and a pedestrian bridge that sits on a slender island overlooking the River Lee at Tottenham Hale. The venture also includes external spaces for communities to enjoy and easy access to public transport and nearby nature spot. Commercial areas are also included on the ground floor to further improve the area.Freshfield Lane First Quality and Selected Darks are used to striking effect as a homage to the characteristics of London’s historic canals. The hues embodied within the bricks allow for the structure to complement the modernisation of the area while also complimenting the waterfront green areas and the development of nearby nature parks.Hale Wharf represents an exciting opportunity for an area of London that needed a number of new properties to fulfil local needs, as such, a number of units in the development have been built to be affordable. Further developments are planned along the island with Phase 2 starting construction in 2022.

Manthorpe Building Products have been making subtle but effective modifications to their pioneering Swift Brick designed in conjunction with the RSPB and Barratt Developments Plc.