Back to the 2022 Shortlist Large Housing Development

Barchester Street

Sponsored by
Forterra 3
210505 Met Work Barchester 4969

Details

Brick Manufacturers: Michelmersh Brick Holdings PLC, Ibstock Brick Limited & Forterra PLC

Architect: Metropolitan Workshop

Brickwork Contractor: Brickstone Construction Ltd

About the project

Metropolitan Workshop has completed a striking Fletton brick and zinc-clad scheme in the Limehouse Cut Conservation Area of East London. The 115 new homes comprise part of Canary Wharf Group’s affordable housing commitment associated with their Newfoundland development.

Situated alongside the Limehouse Cut canal and bound on three other sides by Balladier Walk, Barchester and Chrisp Street, the site was occupied by two abutting industrial buildings: a large factory (1939) and warehouse (1956). The factory’s dramatic sawtooth roofscapes were emblematic of the industrial revolution and permitted sunlight to penetrate deep into the structure.

The scheme redevelops these industrial buildings to provide three residential blocks, while retaining the historic integrity of the original structures. Roof profiles, structural and decorative elements are all sensitively redeployed and facades, such as the canal side, are retained where possible. Each elevation is expressed uniquely, to evoke the charm of the site’s historic structures while delivering a range of housing in an efficient and sustainable manner.

Sponsored by Forterra

Forterra 3

Wherever you are in Britain, you won’t be far from a building with a Forterra brick, block or bespoke clay or concrete product somewhere in its fabric.

Our history of manufacturing building products began in the 19th century; we kept Britain building right through the 20th century; and we continue to be at the forefront of building innovation in the 21st century so you, and future generations, can continue to build history.

Forterra PLC