Steamhouse, Birmingham City University

Architect Aukett Swanke redesigned the space, whose industrial heritage as part of a Victorian factory complex is a key driver for the design in order to integrate traditional red brick and terracotta masonry with contemporary design aspects. IG Masonry Support provided its Brick Slip Lintels and Brick Arch Lintels to help achieve the architect’s aspirations.

The main challenge on this project was the short window allocated for the design and delivery of product to site. IG Masonry Support’s involvement was between February 2021 and April 2021; therefore the company was able to bespoke design, manufacture and deliver its Brick Slip Lintels and Brick Arch Lintels for use on the development in mere months.

In addition to the challenging timeframe, the project featured a complex design. The measurements of the arches were a 1534mm radius, and a 1489mm rise. The wide radius presented a challenge in designing the Brick Arch Lintels, as IG Masonry Support would have to precisely design the coursing to guarantee the openings would be accentuated, enabling the lintels to stand out from surrounding brickwork.

Furthermore, upon recognition that the structure lacked support, IGMS rectified this issue by supplying the rear Lintel of the Brick Slip Arches to provide adequate support for the soffit.

On this challenging refurbishment project, IG Masonry Support not only delivered the products to schedule, it made itself available to the client to provide its technical expertise and design the precise masonry solution for the development.

Despite the complex design requirements, IG Masonry Support was able to design and manufacture the bespoke product which met the architect’s vision for the building, while remaining structurally sound. Although the Brick Arch Lintels had large radii, IGMS’ design proficiency ensured the coursing was correct, and the arch lintels accentuated the openings on each elevation of the building.

Additionally, both larger arch lintels and the 51 smaller arches were delivered as one unit ready for installation, which increased project efficiency and showcased IG Masonry Support’s excellent customer service.

The provision of IG Masonry Support’s quality brickwork Brick Slip Lintels and Brick Arch Lintels has improved efficiency on a substantial refurbishment project, assisting in the renovation of a 121-year-old building, ensuring that the appearance of the building’s façade is elevated while maintaining its historic character.