Cotswolds Designer Outlet

Designed by Roberts Limbrick Ltd and delivered by Bouygues UK and JG Bricklaying Limited, the development consists of a series of retail blocks, each featuring detailed brick façades with arches and recessed elements to create a cohesive and visually engaging environment.

Following the successful completion of previous projects, Roberts Limbrick specified and JG Bricklaying appointed IG Masonry Support to design and manufacture prefabricated brick slip systems for the development. In total, 53 metres of Brick Slip Lintels were required for large openings exceeding three metres, alongside 126 metres of Brick Slip Arch Lintels forming decorative arches throughout the development.

A key strength of the project was our ability to provide a fully coordinated, one-stop service. By managing design, structural engineering, and manufacturing, our team ensured clear communication, efficient problem-solving, and consistent quality across all elements of the façade package.

One of the primary challenges of the project was designing the Brick Slip Arches to span large openings while supporting significant masonry loads. The reduced rise of the arches limited the natural load distribution, placing additional stress on the units and requiring a robust structural solution.

A further challenge was the limited availability of structural elements to fix back to, meaning the arches needed to function as largely freestanding features. This required careful consideration of how loads would be managed and transferred without relying on secondary support systems, as well as how they would be safely installed.

IG Masonry Support developed bespoke Brick Slip Arches designed to carry increased loads while maintaining the required aesthetic. The arches were engineered with sufficient strength to perform structurally, ensuring stability across large spans.

To address the limited availability of fixing points, a freestanding arch approach was adopted. This involved careful coordination of the surrounding brickwork to provide restraint, along with a considered installation sequence. Temporary propping methods were incorporated to support the arches during installation, allowing them to perform as intended once the surrounding brickwork was completed.

Close technical support was provided throughout, with a focus on installation methodology, ensuring the arches could be safely positioned, propped, and integrated into the façade without the need for additional structural restraint.

By delivering bespoke Brick Slip Arches and providing hands-on technical support, IG Masonry Support enabled the successful installation of large-span, freestanding arches across the Cotswold Designer Outlet. The project highlights the value of integrated design and engineering expertise in achieving complex architectural features while maintaining structural integrity and a high-quality finish.