The Brick Development Association is delighted to announce the winners of the prestigious 2024 Brick Awards. This annual competition recognises the outstanding contributions of architects, builders, bricklayers, and manufacturers to the built environment.
The winners were selected by a panel of industry experts who evaluated projects based on design innovation, craftsmanship, sustainability, and overall aesthetic appeal. The awards were presented by esteemed architect, TV personality, writer, and lecturer George Clarke, on 6th November at a glamorous ceremony held at the Royal Lancaster London Hotel.
Category: Supreme Winner & Urban Regeneration
Winning Project: Norton Folgate
Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc and Ibstock Plc
Brick Name: Danehill Yellow, Floren Gothiek and Staffordshire Blue
Architect: Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, Stanton Williams, Morris + Company, DSDHA, EAST
Brickwork Contractor: Paye Stonework & Restoration Limited, Thorpe Precast, Lyons & Annoot
The Norton Folgate development, a vibrant new neighbourhood in London’s City Fringe, is a testament to the enduring beauty and versatility of clay brick architecture.
This ambitious project, executed by a consortium of renowned architectural practices, has transformed a series of underutilised urban blocks into a thriving community. By carefully restoring, refurbishing, and extending existing buildings and introducing sensitively designed new structures, the masterplan has breathed new life into the area.
Clay brick, a material synonymous with quality, durability, and timeless appeal, is a key element of the development’s architectural palette. By employing a diverse range of brick tones and textures, the architects have created a harmonious and distinctive neighbourhood that seamlessly blends with the historic character of the Elder Street conservation area.
Judges Comment Supreme Award: “This excellent mixed-use scheme is a unique blend of old and new, creating highly sustainable, innovative spaces in an historic environment in the heart of the city.”
Judges Comment Urban Regeneration Award: “The whole team should be commended for bringing such a complex and lengthy project through to successful completion. It is a highly accomplished and sensitive marriage of historic retention, restoration and rebuilding, with new sympathetic commercial architecture in brick. It is an example of how challenging sites need great design, executed well, with a committed client, to breathe new life into them, giving them a sustainable future, without throwing out the past.”
Urban Regeneration Highly Commended Project: Elephant Tea Rooms
Category: Sustainability
Winning Project: Aspen Wood Hospital
Location: Liverpool
Brick Manufacturer: Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc
Brick Name: Blockleys Sterling Grey, Blockleys Pennine Buff Wirecut, Blockleys Windermere Grey
Architect: Gilling Dod Architects
Brickwork Contractor: Stock Brickwork Ltd
Mersey Care’s Aspen Wood facility is a state-of-the-art healthcare building designed to provide specialised care for individuals with complex forensic learning disability needs. The building’s striking brick facade, constructed using high-quality clay bricks, not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also contributes to its sustainability.
The facility incorporates a range of sustainable design features, including energy- efficient systems, natural ventilation, and solar shading. The use of durable and low- maintenance materials, such as clay brick, further minimises the building’s environmental impact.
Inside, the building offers a calming and therapeutic environment with a focus on patient well-being. The interior features a range of amenities, including sensory rooms, therapy spaces, and communal areas, all designed to promote recovery and rehabilitation.
Judges Comment: “This project is set to become the benchmark for all similar builds moving forward. The building delivers on lots of levels including sensory design, robustness and security, low maintenance/longevity, and sustainability. Ultimately, brick as a material became part of our design philosophy and approach on this project, addressing all these key success factors. Furthermore, it also helped add a sense of permanence, safety and refuge to vulnerable Service users as well as confidence and Trust from staH.”
Category: Contractors Choice
Winning Project: Royal Eden Docks Phase 2
Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc
Brick Name: White Engobe, Ivanhoe Creams, Moss Green GR49 Architect: Hunters
Brickwork Contractor: Swift Brickwork Contractors Ltd
The Mount Anvil Royal Eden Dock project in London showcases the power of brickwork to create stunning and sustainable architecture. This development features a striking combination of clay brick types, including Ivanhoe Creams and Engobe Whites, laid in a classic stretcher bond pattern.
The careful selection of clay bricks and the skilled craftsmanship of Swift Brickwork Contractors Ltd have resulted in a visually appealing and durable facade. The contrasting colours and textures add depth and dimension to the building, while the clean lines and modern design create a timeless aesthetic.
This project not only enhances the local landscape but also contributes to the community by providing much-needed housing and supporting local businesses. It demonstrates how brickwork can be used to create beautiful, sustainable, and socially responsible developments.
Judges Comment: “Royal Eden Dock is a faultless build of the highest quality. The Management team for Swift brickwork on site should be truly proud of what they have achieved.”
Category: Architects Choice
Winning Project: The Scoop
Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc
Brick Name: London White Glazed Brick, Special Shapes
Architect: Corstorphine & Wright
Brickwork Contractor: Grafton Brickwork
The Scoop is a striking new office building in Southwark, London, that reimagines the potential of existing structures. This innovative project, designed by Corstorphine & Wright, involves the reuse and reconfiguration of an existing building to create a unique and inspiring workspace.
A key feature of the building is the dramatic semi-circular void cut into the south facade, creating a “visual bridge” that connects two divided views. The facade, clad in white glazed bricks, is a standout element that adds a contemporary twist to the historic neighbourhood.
The Scoop’s design not only enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal but also improves its energy efficiency and sustainability. The project demonstrates how innovative architecture can breathe new life into existing buildings and contribute to the revitalisation of urban areas.
Judges Comment: “A highly creative concept with the purpose of revealing the architecture of the adjacent building on to the high street.”
Category: Individual Housing Development
Winning Project: Six Columns
Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Wienerberger Limited and Ketley Brick Company
Brick Name: Staffordshire Smooth Brown and Light Multi
Architect: 31/44 Architects
Brickwork Contractor: Atlant Construction
Six Columns is a bespoke family home that celebrates the beauty of brickwork and modern design. Designed by 31/44 Architects, this unique residence seamlessly integrates into its surrounding neighbourhood while showcasing bold architectural features.
The house’s striking facade, composed of textured brickwork and a green marble panel, creates a strong visual impact. The interior spaces are equally impressive, featuring exposed brickwork, clay floor tiles, and carefully crafted joinery. With its sustainable design and flexible layout, Six Columns is a testament to the enduring appeal of brick and a model of contemporary architecture.
Judges Comment: “This project consists of an enjoyable collection of living spaces heightened by connection to garden. The bricks were well chosen and added to the overall design impact from the street.”
Highly Commended Project: Plas Hendy Stable Block.
Category: Small Housing Development
Winning Project: Manresa House
Location: Birmingham
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc and Wienerberger Ltd
Brick Name: Britley Old English and Pagus Grey
Architect: OMI Architects
Brickwork Contractor: HH Smith & Sons Co. Ltd
OMI Architects has transformed Manresa House, a historic novitiate in Harborne, Birmingham, into a serene and inspiring space for new recruits to The Society of Jesus. The project involved a sensitive renovation and extension of the existing building, respecting its character while introducing contemporary elements.
A striking red brick facade harmonises with the original structure, while internal spaces feature exposed brickwork to create a warm and contemplative atmosphere. The chapel, a central spiritual space, is marked by a curved brick frontage and a serene interior.
The community was fully dedicated to making sustainable, long-term choices. The extensive use of brickwork, both inside and out, with deeply recessed windows and strongly defined features like the chimney on the south elevation, showcased the physical and perceived strength and durability of brick. This design choice reflects the community’s enduring commitment to the site and its ongoing role as a place of learning and spirituality.
Judges Comment: “The extensive use of clay brick, both internally and externally works well. The project blends well into the local residential area and provides a suitable and safe environment for the training priests and the supporting staH at Manresa House.”
Category: Medium Housing Development
Winning Project: Forest Road
Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc
Brick Name: Floren Vecchio, Floren Tartufo
Architect: Gort Scott
Brickwork Contractor: Legendre UK
Gort Scott’s Forest Road development offers 90 affordable one-bedroom homes in London’s Waltham Forest. The project celebrates the area’s rich history, drawing inspiration from the nearby William Morris Gallery.
The building’s striking brickwork, featuring Floren Vecchio and Tartufo bricks, creates a warm and inviting facade that complements the local character. The use of innovative brickwork techniques, such as recessed vertical lines and soldier course lintels, adds depth and visual interest.
Forest Road exemplifies how brick can be used to create beautiful and sustainable affordable housing, contributing to the local community and enhancing the urban landscape.
Judges Comment: “Beautiful looking building, the wet cast stonework complemented the tint of the bricks. Excellently constructed brickwork especially the window surrounds and stone heads!”
Highly Commended Project: Lucy Cavendish College.
Category: Large Housing Development
Winning Project: Brabazon
Location: Bristol
Brick Manufacturer: Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc
Brick Name: Freshfield Lane Selected Darks & Lights
Architect: Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Grant Associates
Brickwork Contractor: YTL Developments
Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios’ Hangar District, the first phase of the Brabazon development, is a transformative project that breathes new life into Bristol’s historic Filton Airfield. The scheme delivers 303 new homes, including a mix of family houses, apartments, and affordable housing.
The design places a strong emphasis on community and sustainability, with a focus on public spaces, green areas, and low-carbon living. The striking brickwork and modern architectural forms of the buildings create a sense of both heritage and contemporary design. The use of high-quality materials, including clay brick, contributes to the overall aesthetic appeal and durability of the development.
The Brabazon development showcases how historic sites can be repurposed to create vibrant and sustainable communities.
Judges Comment: “A highly successful development that shows how the consistent use of a well chosen main brick can help to define the character of a new residential area. The success is in the simplicity and the consistency of the use of a main brick over many diHerent buildings, with diHerent scales, geometries and configurations in order to tie the development together. There is an economy of means that should be celebrated.”
Highly Commended Project: Royal Eden Docks Phase 2 and Farrimond House.
Category: Housebuilder
Winner: Cala Homes
Development 1: Shopwyke Lakes
Location: Chichester
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc
Brick Name: Berkshire Orange Stock , Thakeham Red Multi Stock, Capital Browns Stock, Multi Orange Stock, Minster Cream Blend
Architect: Cala Homes
Development 2: Waterbeach Development
Location: Cambridgeshire
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc
Brick Name: New Ivanhoe Cream, Ivanhoe Cream Original
Architect: Cala Homes
Cala Homes, a leading UK housebuilder, is committed to building exceptional homes that are both beautiful and sustainable. With a strong focus on design, quality, and customer service, Cala Homes is dedicated to creating thriving communities. The company’s sustainability initiatives include net-zero carbon homes, reduced carbon footprints, and the use of sustainable materials. Cala Homes is also committed to the health and safety of its employees and the public, with robust policies and procedures in place.
Judges Comment: “Consistently using finer brick design features that create stunning homes and a sustainable community. Cala go the extra mile to deliver exemplary customer service and nurture young apprentices within the business.”
Category: Commercial
Winning Project: Berner & Wells Street
Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc and Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc
Brick Name: Blue Glazed and Charnwood Handmade
Architect: Emrys Architects
Brickwork Contractor: Blou Construction
The Berners & Wells development stands out as a striking addition to the heart of London’s Fitzrovia. This mixed-use project features 56,000 square feet of office space and retail space, spanning two urban blocks.
The development involved the refurbishment of existing buildings and the construction of new structures. The facades are a blend of modern and traditional elements, with bespoke brickwork that seamlessly complements the existing architecture. The use of teal glazed brick detailing creates a visually striking entrance to the development.
Berners & Wells is designed to be a sustainable and modern workspace and the project is committed to achieving a BREEAM Outstanding rating. With its striking architecture and commitment to sustainability, Berners & Wells is a valuable addition to London’s office market.
Judges Comment: “High quality detailing, materials and design of elevations and internal spaces responding to the two street, and courtyard conditions. Good use of brick in various conditions – historic repair, restoration, heritage extension, alongside contemporary. Nicely detailed throughout.”
Category: Public
Winning Project: Greenock Ocean Terminal Location: Inverclyde
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc
Brick Name: Slate Blue Smooth, Sky Blue Glazed
Architect: Richard Murphy Architects
Brickwork Contractor: Heron Brothers
Greenock Ocean Terminal is a stunning new addition to the Clyde waterfront. This iconic structure, designed by Richard Murphy Architects, serves as a cruise ship visitor center, a processing center for passengers, and a tribute to the renowned local artist George Wyllie.
The building’s striking design, featuring extensive glazing and a nautical-inspired aesthetic, is complemented by the use of high-quality Ibstock Slate Blue Smooth Blue bricks. The thin lines of sky blue glazed bricks also add visual interest and create a unique and memorable facade.
The Greenock Ocean Terminal is expected to boost tourism and economic activity in the region, attracting 150,000 visitors per year. This investment, funded by Inverclyde Council, Peel Ports, the George Wyllie Trust, and the Glasgow City Region City Deal, is a significant contribution to the ongoing regeneration of Greenock.
Judges Comment: “Upper crisp lines with contrasting blue engineering bricks intersected with glazed bricks, a wonderful mock chimney to the roof area. Just a very good example of brickwork of which the masonry contractor should be justifiably proud.”
Highly Commended Project: Oak Hill Lawn Crematorium
Category: Education
Winning Project: Mulberry Academy London Dock Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc
Brick Name: Cooksbridge Yellow Clamp Stock
Architect: Architype
Brickwork Contractor: Swift Brickwork Contractors Ltd
Mulberry London Dock School is a cutting-edge secondary school located in the heart of London’s Docklands. This Passivhaus-certified building showcases a striking architectural design that seamlessly integrates with the historic surroundings.
The school’s distinctive brick facade, inspired by the area’s industrial heritage, is a key feature of the project. The carefully selected materials contribute to the building’s visual appeal and its exceptional energy performance.
Mulberry London Dock School is not only a beautiful and sustainable building but also a valuable asset to the local community, providing first-class education and facilities for generations to come.
Judges Comment: “Mulberry, London Dock School reflects the rich history of it surroundings with great care whilst providing a high quality contemporary educational building. careful consideration has been given to the choice of brick and how it is to be detailed.”
Category: Refurbishment
Winning Project: Ice Factory
Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc
Brick Name: Steel Grey, Coarse Textured Renovation Blend, Light Victorian Red Lightly Renovated, Multi Brindle, Weathered Grey
Architect: Buckley Gray Yeoman
Brickwork Contractor: Langdale Associates
The renovation of 27 Eccleston Place, now known as ‘Ice Factory,’ has transformed a former industrial building into a vibrant workspace and retail destination. The project involved a careful restoration of the historic fabric, combined with a modern extension that complements the building’s original character.
The use of high-quality bricks was a key element of the project. A bespoke blend of Michelmersh’s Charnwood bricks were carefully selected to create a subtle tonal difference that distinguishes the new extension from the existing building. The brickwork pattern, a simple stretcher bond, complements the surrounding area’s diverse brickwork styles.
The Ice Factory project demonstrates how historic buildings can be adapted to meet modern needs while preserving their original character. The careful use of materials and thoughtful design has resulted in a truly exceptional development.
Judges Comment: “The addition makes a subtle, but coherent transition between old and new, with the new elements pushing the boundaries of the creative use of clay brick, whilst remaining respectful to the original building. A real delight!”
Category: Innovation
Winning Project: HyBrick Bench
Location: Science Museum, London
Brick Manufacturer: Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc
Brick Name: Freshfield Lane First Quality Multi – HyBrick
Architect: Unknown Works
Brickwork Contractor: Lyons & Annoot
The HyBrick Science Museum Bench is a physical embodiment of how product innovation can address the challenges facing the clay brick industry. This unique bench, created by Michelmersh Brick Holdings and built by Lyons & Annoot showcases the potential of HyBrick, the world’s first 100% hydrogen-fired brick.
Made with HyBrick, the bench demonstrates how product innovation can significantly reduce carbon emissions compared to traditional manufacturing methods without compromising the aesthetic appeal or performance of the clay brick. This innovative product highlights how the clay brick industry can contribute to a more sustainable future.
When combined with wider emission reduction efforts, the HyBrick Science Museum Bench represents a tangible example of the sustainable potential of clay brick. This project is a testament to Michelmersh Brick Holdings’ commitment to innovation and sustainability
Judges Comment: “A demonstration of how hydrogen fired bricks could potentially help to lower the Carbon emissions of the brick industry. It points the way to other innovations to lower the Carbon footprint of the clay brick industry.”
Highly Commended Project: Foxglove House.
Category: Craftmanship
Winning Project: 5 Fredericks Place
Location: London
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc and York Handmade Brick Company
Brick Name: Kingston Handmade Restoration Red, Kingston Handmade Heather Red and Chetham Blend
Architect: Stanton Williams and Sonnemann Toon
Brickwork Contractor: Grangewood Brickwork Services Limited
The refurbishment of Frederick’s Place has transformed a historic London site into a striking new development. The project involved the demolition of two existing buildings and the construction of a seven-story structure, featuring a blend of retail and commercial spaces.
The building’s striking facade incorporates a variety of brickwork techniques, including a unique ‘woven tapestry’ pattern on the archive building. This intricate design, along with the building’s clean lines and modern materials, creates a striking visual impact.
Judges Comment: “Interesting and exciting masonry features, not very often one sees a well-executed tapestry bond!”
Highly Commended Project: Mapesbury.
Category: Specialist Brickwork Contractor
Winner: Cara Brickwork
Development 1: Monk Bridge
Location: Leeds
Brick Manufacturer: Ibstock Plc and Wienerberger Limited
Architect: Carey Jones Chapman Tolcher
Development 2: Islington Wharf
Location: Manchester
Brick Manufacturer: Forterra Plc, Michelmersh Brick Holdings Plc
Architect: Ryder Architects
Cara Brickwork is a leading UK construction company committed to quality, safety, and sustainability. With a strong focus on training and development, the company is nurturing the next generation of skilled bricklayers.
By investing in their apprentices, Cara Brickwork is ensuring a sustainable future for the construction industry. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in their ISO certifications and innovative digital tools, such as the Fieldview system.
Judges Comment: “In Cara we could see a business that cared about its people and also the communities that it worked in. It was evident from the drive of the Senior Leadership team, which cascaded through the business, that Cara invest in the future of their business with apprenticeships but also in how they monitor quality as part of their works.”
Category: Worldwide
Winning Project: Sandford Lodge
Location: Ireland
Brick Manufacturer: Wienerberger Bronsgroen
Architect: Shay Cleary Architects
Brickwork Contractor: Glenbeigh Construction
Sandford Lodge Apartments, a groundbreaking project in Dublin, sets a new standard for sustainable urban development. This mixed-use development, spearheaded by Wienerberger, incorporates innovative design, sustainable materials, and advanced technologies to create eco-friendly living spaces.
The project’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of Wienerberger’s Porotherm cellular clay blocks and EcoBricks, which significantly reduce the carbon footprint of construction. Additionally, advanced insulation techniques, high- performance glazing, and solar photovoltaic systems contribute to the building’s energy efficiency.
By prioritising sustainability, Sandford Lodge Apartments offers residents a healthier, more environmentally friendly living experience.
Judges Comment: “Architectural Excellence has to be demonstrated both in a Rigorously Clear Concept Design and in the Beautiful Realisation in Bricks and Mortar of the proposal. We feel this project really responds to both criteria.”