Oct 31 2005
An ambitious regeneration programme to redevelop a former Government building site in Westminster into a mixed use scheme saw leading manufacturer Baggeridge Brick play an integral role.
Three dilapidated buildings had remained unoccupied for nine years and were drab in appearance however major regeneration has transformed them into a prestigious scheme of residential apartments, commercial offices and separate buildings specifically for the Home Office.
Before any brick work could commence however, demolition had to take place, and the scheme quickly earned its status as being one of the largest demolition sites in Europe. Having worked with Baggeridge previously, specifying bricks for the construction of a commercial building in the City of Westminster which was subsequently a Brick Development Association (BDA) award winning project, the architects, The Kalyvides Partnership - knew that they could rely on the company to supply quality bricks and specified 52mm Classic Buff, which were specially manufactured for the project.
A rigorous process of testing had already confirmed that the colours, textures, sizes and density of the bricks had been explored and Tryfon Kalyvides was keen to continue working with a British firm that offered high quality, competitively priced products that suited his requirements.
He comments: “Working with separate buildings it was important that a common characteristic ran throughout, stitching together the urban fabric. Using Classic Buff bricks helped achieve the desired aesthetic. “For all the buildings, the 52mm Classic Buff was chosen and was laid quarter bond to create a horizontal feel.”
Tryfon adds: “We had worked with these particular bricks before and knew that the products had just the right tonal and textural values.”
All the buildings have a contemporary feel - terracotta and metal channels have been incorporated with the brick work providing a fusion of complementary materials to complete the composition. The end result now sees the collection of three buildings on Monck Street, Horseferry Road and Great Peter Street displaying a unique, eye catching exterior appearance of which the Baggeridge brickwork plays an important part.