Product used: Linear Birtley Bricks Name of the project: Artful Ceilings + Arched Delights Architects: A Small Studio Contractor: Dobuild Photo Credit: Tarry & Perry
This delightful project arose through our partnership with A Small Studio. From collaborating on a London Festival of Architecture event, Making friends with the ‘Bat Pack’: How to Design Urban Environments that Support the Diverse Eco-System and the Bat Population we were asked if we had any suitable products for this scheme.
The Linear Birtley Bricks were able to compliment the colour palette and architectural details, which were influenced by the client’s collection of Italian artwork, featuring classical architecture.
We spoke to DoBuild, who masterfully brought the bricks to life: "When faced with the task of bringing the intricate brickwork to life in the context of this Dulwich Estate property, our primary focus was on honouring the architectural vision while ensuring a seamless integration within the structural constraints.
The process of materialising the bricks on-site was accomplished through meticulous coordination with our team, ensuring each brick was not only a structural component but also a testament to the artistry of the build. We applied a sympathetic approach to the brickwork, treating each arch not just as a passage but as an homage to classical architecture, drawing inspiration from the Italian artwork cherished by the clients.
Constructing the arches presented its own set of complexities, particularly in aligning the bricks to form a perfect curve that would withstand the forces of gravity and time. The challenge was twofold: first, to ensure the stability and integrity of the structure; and second, to achieve the aesthetic finesse required by the design. Our team employed advanced techniques, leveraging both traditional masonry skills and modern engineering solutions to create arches that are both robust and elegant. The craftsmanship is evident in the seamless flow of the arches, inviting a sense of continuity and grace to the space."