The Brick Development Association

17/06/2026

Brick Slips: Traditional material, modern application

Offering the authentic appearance of traditional clay brick in a lighter, more flexible format, they are a key enabler of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and offsite manufacturing.

By reducing wall weight and freeing up space for high-performance insulation, brick slip systems support faster, more efficient construction without compromising on aesthetics.

Crucially, they retain the inherent strengths of clay brick - A1 fire safety, durability, and long-term resilience, making them ideal for everything from high-rise developments to modular builds.

Learn more in the technical guide - Brickwork and Modern Methods of Construction (Link in the comments)

16/06/2026

Introducing our Head Judge for the 2026 Brick Awards 🧱

We’re pleased to confirm that Luke Tozer, Founding Director of Pitman Tozer Architects, will lead this year’s judging panel as Head Judge.

Luke has been closely involved with the Brick Awards over many years, returning to the panel in recent years following an earlier period as a judge. His appointment comes as we mark the 50th anniversary of the awards.

Luke said:
“I’m delighted to be taking on the role of Head Judge in what is a landmark year for the Brick Awards, as we celebrate their 50th anniversary… I’m looking forward to working with our panel of brilliant judges to celebrate another great year of entries.”

Read more on our website (link in comments).

15/06/2026

🏆 Brick that does more than just build, it defines place.

At Bulrush Court, Leaside Lock, every design move is rooted in material thinking, a key reason it was named winner of the Large Housing Development category at the Brick Awards 2025.

Designed by Pitman Tozer Architects, this east London scheme delivers 144 affordable homes within a wider 950-home masterplan. But what sets it apart is how clay brick is used to shape identity, hierarchy and experience.

From the darker, formal civic frontage to the lighter courtyard elevations and robust brick plinth, the façade is carefully articulated to respond to context, scale and use. Materials from WE ARE Ibstock - at the heart of building and Michelmersh play a central role in creating depth, rhythm and cohesion across the scheme.

The result is housing that feels structured yet human, practical yet distinctive – showing how thoughtful brick design can elevate high-density living.

Explore the full design story - https://www.brick.org.uk/brick-bulletin/bulrush-court-london

13/06/2026

Entries are now closed for the 2026 Brick Awards 🧱

Thank you to all who submitted projects. We have received a strong and diverse range of entries, reflecting the quality, innovation and craftsmanship of brick architecture across the UK.

The judging process is now underway, and we look forward to announcing the shortlist on Friday 26th June!

12/06/2026

Modern construction methods are continuing to evolve, and systems such as Ibstock’s FastWall® demonstrate how innovation can enhance the use of traditional clay brick in contemporary building design.

FastWall® combines purpose-made thin clay bricks with an offsite-manufactured façade system, delivering the authentic appearance and durability of brickwork alongside faster installation, reduced weight and improved construction efficiency. Designed for modern methods of construction, the system also creates opportunities for improved thermal performance without compromising on architectural quality.

As the industry responds to changing performance requirements and the Future Homes Standard, innovations in clay brick systems are helping architects and specifiers balance efficiency, sustainability and enduring design appeal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hzfn0Mgp3K0

11/06/2026

We’re pleased to announce our next speakers for Brick Works Birmingham 🧱

Rick Burney - Director, Scapolan Burney
Rick is co-founder of the practice, leading projects from concept through to completion across complex urban sites.

Tomos Osmond - Associate, Scapolan Burney
Tomos brings over 15 years’ experience across residential and cultural projects.

Together, Rick and Tomos will present The Pressworks, a 2025 Brick Awards shortlisted project located in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter Conservation Area.

The scheme transforms a disused mid-19th-century manufactory into 48 new homes, centred around the restoration of a Grade II listed building. The project explores how contemporary brick architecture can respond to historic context, using depth, detailing, and material expression to create a clear yet respectful relationship between old and new.

Location: EH Smith Architectural Solutions Design Centre, 312 – 314 Bradford St, Birmingham, B5 6ET
When: Thursday 25th June 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Secure your ticket now - link in the comments.

10/06/2026

Design Considerations: Precision Engineering - Clay for Modern Construction 🧱

Thin brick systems are helping extend the versatility of traditional clay brick within modern construction.

By using a thinner clay brick profile, designers can create additional space within the wall build-up for high-performance insulation, supporting improved U-values and greater thermal efficiency without increasing the building footprint.

As standards such as the Future Homes Standard continue to shape building design, thin brick solutions demonstrate how innovation in clay construction can support both performance requirements and the enduring appeal of authentic brick architecture.

Learn more in the Technical Guide (Link in the comments)

09/06/2026

Great housing design doesn’t have to be large-scale to make a lasting impact 🧱

Across the UK, smaller residential developments are setting new benchmarks, delivering carefully considered design, a strong sense of place, and high-quality brick architecture that enhances local communities.

The Small Housing Development category celebrates projects of up to 25 units that demonstrate excellence in residential design, construction, and delivery, showcasing innovation and craftsmanship on a more focused scale.

If you’ve been involved in a standout housing development of up to 25 units, now’s the time to get it recognised. Enter via the link in the comments, but be quick, entries close this Friday!

06/06/2026

As part of the façade renovation at Claridge’s Hotel in London, architects Derek Whetton Consultancy required a solution that combined precision, speed of installation and minimal disruption on site.

Michelmersh's FabSpeed ProClad brick slip system was specified as an alternative to traditional bricklaying, delivering the desired clay brick aesthetic alongside the efficiency and precision required for a complex refurbishment project.

Read the full case study to discover how engineered clay solutions are supporting modern construction. https://www.mbhplc.co.uk/case-studies/claridges-hotel/

FabSpeed's ProClad system was pivotal to the success of the project as it allowed for incredibly accurate installation

05/06/2026

Brick Works London is almost here, an evening celebrating excellence in brick architecture and construction. 🧱

Location: wienerberger Design Studio, London
Date: Wednesday 1st July
Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM

Join leading voices from Fletcher Priest Architects wienerberger UK and Allford Hall Monaghan Morris as they share inspiring case studies, gain CPD hours, and connect with professionals across architecture, masonry, and construction.

It’s the perfect setting to exchange ideas, spark new connections, and recognise outstanding brickwork.

Proud to be in partnership with wienerberger UK for .

🎟️ Tickets are nearly sold out, secure one of the final places via the link in the comments.