The Role of Brick in Modern British Architectural Design
British architecture has long been defined by its masterful use of brick, and today's innovative designers are writing an exciting new chapter in this centuries-old tradition.
From cutting-edge sustainability features to groundbreaking aesthetic applications, brick continues to prove its remarkable versatility in contemporary design. Here, we take a look at the crucial role of brick in British architectural design.
Innovation Meets Tradition: Contemporary Uses of British Brick
British architects are reinventing the use of traditional brick, from innovative bond patterns to sculptural applications. For example, the HYLO London project exemplifies how modern architects are pushing the boundaries of traditional brick applications. As London's third-highest building utilising brick slips, it demonstrates the material's versatility in high-rise construction.
The project's distinctive use of bespoke bricks from Modular Clay Products, arranged in a traditional Flemish bond pattern with flush textured pointing, was used to create a sculptural form that appears to be hewn from a single material. This innovative approach helped distinguish HYLO from the glass and metal facades typical of City buildings while respecting the surrounding conservation areas.
Sustainability and Local Heritage: The Environmental Case for Brick
The HYLO project also showcases how modern brick construction can significantly contribute to sustainability goals. The project achieved remarkable environmental credentials, saving 2,500 tonnes of embodied CO2 - equivalent to 40% of the carbon footprint of a comparable new building.
This was partially achieved through the innovative use of brick slips cast into Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) backing, reducing both weight and concrete volume while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of traditional brickwork.
Sustainability is critical in modern architectural practice, and as such clay bricks are gaining popularity as an environmentally conscious building material. Innovative design strategies are exploring ways to maximise the ecological potential of brick construction, focusing on recycling, thermal efficiency, and sustainable production methods.
Recycled brick applications are especially promising. Architects are increasingly sourcing reclaimed bricks from demolition sites, reducing waste and embodied carbon. Advanced manufacturing techniques now allow for the creation of bricks with enhanced thermal properties, improving building energy performance and reducing long-term environmental impact.
Some cutting-edge approaches involve integrating clay bricks with passive design principles. By carefully considering brick density, wall thickness, and positioning, designers can create natural thermal regulation systems that minimise the need for artificial heating and cooling.
Colour and Texture in Urban Regeneration
Carefully chosen brick types are enhancing Britain's post-industrial landscapes, with special attention to the role of varied colours and textures in creating distinctive neighbourhood identities. The Gateway West project in London's White City Place exemplifies how innovative brick solutions can create a distinctive architectural character while meeting complex technical demands.
Working with Modular Clay Products, the architect Gort Scott achieved a remarkable 'rock-like' presence through sophisticated brick detailing and specialist manufacturing techniques.
Technical Innovations: Smart Brick Solutions
The industry is witnessing remarkable technological advances in brick construction. For example, Modular Clay Products’ collaboration with leading architects has resulted in innovative prefabricated brick panels that significantly reduce on-site construction time while maintaining the authentic appearance of traditional brickwork.
The Gateway West project demonstrates how modern brick construction can integrate with other materials and technical requirements while maintaining aesthetic coherence. The careful integration of brick piers with ceramic cladding and the creation of cantilevers and projecting fins showcase the material's versatility.
Selecting the Right UK Bricks for Your Project
Embracing the past and the innovations of today, clay bricks stand as a testament to sustainable building design. If you look at our brick selector tool, you can browse our vast collection of bricks, isolating specific products based on their colour, texture and finish. This allows you to find the perfect material to showcase the light and colour of your buildings.