Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers for
TRIENNIAL AWARDS 2024
BRICKWORK
ROOF SLATING AND TILING
WALL AND FLOOR TILING
Presentation of Awards Vintners’ Hall Thursday 5th September 2024
In the presence of Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli, the Right Honourable, the Lord Mayor of London
BACKGROUND TO THE AWARDS FROM THE MASTER
The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers is one of the historic Livery Companies of the City of London and is unusual, if not unique, in supporting three distinct crafts – Bricklaying, Roof Slating and Tiling, and Wall and Floor Tiling – that remain important in the modern economy. The Company can trace its history from as early as 1416 and at that time, and during the subsequent 250 years, it exercised almost total control over the three crafts within the London area. Liverymen were responsible for training the future generation of craftsmen through an apprenticeship system and the Company presided over disputes within the trades, monitored levels of craftsmanship and exercised draconian powers over members of the Livery who fell short of the required standard. It was, simultaneously, a cartel, an employers’ confederation, a trade union, a trading standards authority and, through the fraternity which existed between its members, a source of welfare and support for those who fell on hard times and their families. Over the succeeding centuries the Company’s powers diminished, with a substantial loss of influence following the relaxation of the craft monopolies which had to be sanctioned after the Great Fire of London in1666.
A significant part of the Company’s role today is the fostering of the crafts it represents within the construction industry through the giving of awards and prizes. In this way the Company seeks to encourage the development of these crafts and the training of aspiring craftsmen and craftswomen, giving recognition to individuals at the outset of their careers and ultimately conferring Master Craftsman status on those who can demonstrate the very highest standard of craftsmanship over a range of work.
The work of craftsmen is recognised and celebrated today with the Company’s Triennial Awards for Brickwork, Wall and Floor Tiling, and Roof Slating and Tiling. The competition is open to buildings within the M25 area completed in the qualifying period and applications are encouraged and welcomed from building owners, architects, contractors, members of the Company and the public. The awards are judged against agreed criteria by panels made up from a cross section of members of the Company, with the final stage of the judging carried out by those with the required level of specialist knowledge of the various crafts – either as designers, specifiers or craftsmen.
Winning projects in recent years have included major corporate and public buildings, private houses, railway stations, hospitals and office buildings. Recognised work has included new buildings as well as sensitive refurbishment projects and specialist finishes related to the crafts. Among the large-scale buildings recognised by the Triennial Awards in the past are Battersea Power Station, the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew, St Pancras Chambers, the Cruciform Building for University College London, the Reform Club, the Newport Street Gallery and the murals for the 2012 London Olympic Games. On a smaller scale, awards have been won for sensitive refurbishment works in St Katherine’s Dock and the Victoria and Albert Museum, for the ceramic tiling at the Coram Early Childhood Centre, for mosaics in Westminster Cathedral, and for the Paolozzi Mosaics at Tottenham Court Road Underground Station.
The quality of the entries submitted for consideration ensured that the assessors had an extremely difficult task in making their selection and the Company is grateful to those of its members who proposed buildings for the awards and to those from the crafts who submitted entries. A specific thanks goes to the Chairman of our Craft Committee, Ian Wilson, the Committee members, our Head Judge, Hilary Satchwell and Heather Smith our Clerk.
Christopher Causer Master
HEAD JUDGE’S COMMENTS
This year’s Tylers and Bricklayers Triennial Awards judging has been particularly fascinating, as we reviewed projects conceived and completed during the past three years, a period marked by the challenges of emerging from the pandemic. This period highlights the resilience required to keep moving forward in difficult times and underscores the importance of the buildings and spaces that shape our daily lives.
Moreover, this is a pivotal moment to reflect on how we can continue to support these essential trades, recognising the exceptional skills and craftsmanship that these awards celebrate across London.
The winning projects exhibit outstanding quality in brickwork, roofing and tiling, showcasing the care, durability and timelessness each project brings. The shortlist they were drawn from included both modern and traditional projects, all executed with technical skill and expertise built up over many years. Through meticulous craftsmanship, careful material selection and thoughtful integration into their surroundings, these projects positively influence how people experience and perceive their environment and city.
I am thrilled to have the opportunity to meet some of the team members behind these exceptional projects and to learn more about the stories behind the winning schemes as well as to experience how they contribute to their urban environment.
Hilary Satchwell
BOROUGH YARDS, STONEY STREET. LONDON SE1 9AD
Located next to the historic Borough Market on the banks of the River Thames in the heart of Central London, the recently completed Borough Yards development of new retail streets, cultural galleries and commercial office space is urbane and welcoming. This riverside London location is all about historic, cultural and local connections. Next door to the world-famous Borough Market, Borough Yards’ imaginative architecture reinstates the evocatively named Dirty Lane.
By reinstating the lost medieval street pattern, Borough Yards has been designed by SPPARC as a place that resonates with the blended work/play lives of modern urbanites. SPPARC has created an architectural typology which started from the principle that there should be pedestrian lanes within the block, linking the river to the historic market through a series of connecting yard spaces and streets, weaved through an impressive Victorian brick arched railway viaduct to optimise the public use and enjoyment of this special part of the City, re-purposing 8,500sqm of existing railway arches alongside 5 modern buildings. Borough Yards has taken its materiality inspiration of articulated, playful brick from the historic architecture of the area. SPPARC has worked tirelessly to ensure the rich Victorian heritage of the arches could be celebrated by re-purposing the cathedral like brick structures into exciting spaces, all brought back to life with grand walkways welcoming visitors into a place where heritage and modern architecture successfully cohabit.
The project sensitively intertwines the new masonry building additions with the historic brick architecture of the site, using innovative brickwork subtly and boldly to connect the old with the new by transforming a series of formerly disused warehouses, arches, and viaducts into highly innovative and attractive cultural, retail, restaurant and workspace places to define the successful experiential high street of the future.
Client Mark, London
Brick Manufacturer Imported Klinker via TBS
Architect Trevor Morriss/SPPARC
Lead Craftsman Carl Vulgar
Project Manager Wates Construction
Contractor Lesterose Buliding Ltd.
2024 ROOF SLATING AND TILING AWARD
LUCENT W1, LONDON
Landsec’s scheme to combine 13 buildings behind Piccadilly Circus’s LED screen into a single block was completed by Tier 1 contractor, Wates Construction. Designed by Fletcher Priest Architects the project has united all the buildings behind Europe’s largest illuminated advertising screen into 144,000sq ft of mixed-use space. It has seen the listed facades of buildings dismantled, restored and reinstalled, and major newbuild elements added including a seven-storey block covered in threedimensional tiles and a magnificent slate roof comprising nigh on impossible angles.
The new building contains office space, retail and residential and a new rooftop restaurant opening with views over the square. On the ground floor, the building’s main entrance on Sherwood Street has been designed to look like a Mayfair art gallery, with huge windows and a minimalist interior housing curated artwork and a feature spiral staircase. Office space described by Fletcher Priest as some of the “healthiest in the country” takes up the first and sixth floors, while the third to fifth floors include a “light garden” directly behind the building’s LED screen. The three-storey breakout space, which features a living wall and a mature tree, is one of 22 terraces and gardens across the building which include more than 600 plants from 38 different species.
Every floor from the third upwards has access to a terrace, all providing previously unseen views of central London. A central courtyard on the third floor is completely open to all weathers. The project team also included cost consultant RLB, structural engineer Waterman Structures, facade engineer Infinity facade consultants, conservation consultant Donald Insall Associates, project manager Third London Wall and planning consultant JLL.
EJ Roberts Limited were engaged by the main contractor to undertake the roofing using traditional natural heather blue Penrhyn Welsh slates, complemented by the extensive use of Code 9 lead to the flat roofs and box gutters, with lighter Code 6 lead being used to roof the eyebrow dormers.
Client Landsec, London
Slate Manufacturer Welsh Slate
Architect Fletcher Priest Lead Craftsman Terry Smith
Project Manager Third London Wall/Wates Construction
Contractor EJ Roberts Limited
2024 WALL AND FLOOR TILING AWARD
THE COLONNADE, COLLEGE ROAD, CROYDON, LONDON
Croydon Colonnade was inspired by a combination of two main references. On the one hand there are the buildings in the surrounding area built in the 1950s and 1960s, with those built earlier in the Festival of Britain period using a concertina motif on all the buildings, and those built later when brutalism was in fashion using the ubiquitous 3-dimensional diamond motif of that era. The concertina motif influenced the “arrow” tile forms, and the diamond motif clearly influenced the diamond tiles in the colonnade. The other influence was Durham Cathedral’s nave. One of Britain’s most famous, loved and beautiful spaces, the incredible rhythm of the nave is unique and defined by alternating diamond and zigzagging motifs on some of the columns.
The gradient was an important way to bring the building to the ground so that there was a rich level of interest at eye level, and while the original brief had been for the tiles to be all white, it was felt that people walking past would have a warm, rich and immersive experience, which is where the gradient came from. So, the white tower above transitions to meet the ground through the tiles, which visitors experience bodily through the rich glazes at eye level.
Why ceramic? The designer wanted to bring the crafted feeling of something handmade, full of variation and imperfections, and colours that were translucent and changed with the different lighting conditions, to a large-scale architectural project. The designer felt that Craven Dunnill Jackfield had an abundant number of prior projects where they had achieved the kind of varied, deep, rich and slightly crazed glaze with bold colours that he was looking for, and he was very keen on having the tiles made in the UK.
The challenge for the production team was how to manufacture and hand glaze over 60,000 cast tiles in the shape of diamonds and arrows, to realize the vision. Using their unique manufacturing expertise, they were able to meet both the bold design demands and the physical scale and production flow of the project. Using a modified porcelain clay and a clay glaze manufacturing approach, the energy consumption for this project was reduced by over 60% in comparison to traditional tile block manufacture. Loss rates were also consistently below 2%, delivering a good carbon footprint for this product.
Client London Borough of Croydon
Architect Adam Nathaniel Furman
Project Manager Tide Construction
Tile Manufacturer Craven Dunnill Jackfield
Operations Manager John O’Kane
Contractor Century Facades Limited
2024 SUSTAINABILITY AWARD
DEPARTMENT STORE STUDIOS, 19 BELLEFIELD ROAD, LONDON SW9 9UH
The Sustainability Award is a new award which seeks to assess the sustainable credentials of all projects submitted into the Triennial Awards. This year, the panel of judges felt that the Department Store Studios met the criteria for sustainability. The Department Store Studios, a four-storey contemporary workspace building adjacent to the award-winning refurbishment of The Department Store, is the next phase of the practice’s investment in Brixton. Providing 13,000 sq ft of workspace and 4,500 sq ft of retail, the new development creates a platform for growing businesses with flexible workspaces - from individual desks to private studios - and a host of serviced social and meeting areas. The Studios is also home to a neighbourhood bar, restaurant and screening room.
Created as a natural addition to The Department Store, The Studios is a highly sustainable development that supports local businesses by offering a Residency scheme for young entrepreneurs and a programme of events curated to share skills, inspire creativity and expand local networks. The building replaces a series of derelict annexe structures from the 1970s, taking inspiration from the robust Edwardian aesthetic of The Department Store, with patterned brickwork and contemporary faceted bay windows. A setback fourth floor creates generous external terraces. The building also has a 120sqm green roof and planted terraces to encourage biodiversity, with 27 solar panels being used to harness renewable energy.
Client/Developer Squire & Partners
Brick Manufacturer Michelmersh & Ibstock
Architect Tim Must Lead Craftsman Rokas Sakalas
Contractor Lyons & Annoot Brickwork Contractors
2024 SPECIAL COMMENDATION
EAST INDIA CLUB, ST. JAMES’S SQUARE, LONDON
The East India Club has been quietly evolving for 160 years since becoming a clubhouse from the conversion of two substantial houses. Since those early days the Club has enjoyed evolving its facilities for the benefit of members. In 2020 refurbishment of the Club’s substantial basement was set in motion. In researching the project, the architect noted that over time much of the basements period charm had been concealed: interestingly some areas date back to 1677.
The project involved the re-configuration of the existing corridors. The original plan was for liveried handmade artisan tiles to enrich the passageway walls and encaustic floor tiling to create a cohesive look to the new corridor. These would use the Club colours and crest as reference points to evoke the working underbelly of a great London club in clubland’s Victorian heyday.
However, when presented with the cost of the tiles as part of the overall budget, it was necessary to look for a more costeffective solution to achieve the same look for lower cost.
Consequently, for the wall tile, the architect proposed the ‘Delighted’ tile, in the ‘Charmed’ range from Solus Ceramics. As per the original visual plan, the Club crest was digitally printed on to the relevant tiles. The desired effect was achieved, and the project has been enthusiastically embraced by the members of the Club.
These newly tiled corridors now receive the members on their route through to the snooker room, gym, changing rooms and a new ‘Den’, passing by two display cases of the Club’s memorabilia and a large bookcase displaying the Club’s historic leatherbound Minute books.
Client East India Club
Tile Manufacturer Solus Ceramics
Architect Trehane Architects
Lead Craftsman Leigh Williams
The Company’s gratitude is expressed to all those who assisted with the initial invitation to submit entries, the assessment of the entries and the arrangements for today’s presentation of the 2024 Triennial Awards. We have all been working very hard to make sure that our skilled craftsmen and women are recognised and rewarded for all their hard work.
The initial short listing was carried out by members of the Craft Committee and the assessments were carried out in stages by two preliminary assessment panels. The final assessments were carried out by Head Judge, Hilary Satchwell, Chairman of the Craft Committee, Ian Wilson, Renter Warden in Nomination and former Craft Committee Chairman, David White and Court Assistant Keith Aldis with additional expert assistance from Court Assistant Adrian Blundell. The final physical visits and evaluations were delivered by our Head Judge, Hilary Satchwell.
The Company is extremely grateful to the Brick Development Association, members of the National Federation of Roofing Contractors and members of the Tile Association for their contribution in supplying details of many high quality entries into their own annual competitions.
The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers also extends thanks and appreciation to all our sponsors for their generosity, without which these Triennial Awards could not take place. The majority are shown in this brochure, but the Company also wishes to acknowledge Liveryman, Paul Gregory for his generous sponsorship.
Ian Wilson Chairman - Craft Committee
Celebrating Excellence in Brickwork:
A Legacy of Excellence
As one of the UK's foremost brickwork contractors, Swift Brickwork Contractors Limited has been a stalwart in the UK construction industry for over 32 years. During this time, our company has grown to become one of the most respected providers of high-quality masonry services. Our reputation is built on a foundation of “Excellence Without Compromise” and a profound sense of pride in our work.
Brickwork Contractors Limited is honored to be shortlisted for the prestigious Triennial Awards hosted by the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers for our exemplary project at "The Orangery," Kensington Palace. This nomination underscores our commitment to excellence in workmanship and traditional brickwork detailing, delivered to the highest standard.
Commitment to Quality
Our dedication to high-quality workmanship and client satisfaction is unwavering. At Swift, we believe that this commitment is reflected in every project we undertake. "The Orangery" at Kensington Palace is a prime example, standing as a testament to our skilled operatives and dedication to superior quality.
Swift
Did you know that the Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers makes a number of other awards as part of its historic commitment to encouraging the very highest levels of craftsmanship in bricklaying, roof slating and tiling and hardsurface wall and floor tiling - crafts which are as relevant today as they were 500 years ago?
Craft Awards
Each year it makes awards to college students and military trainees. These are, respectively, to the students who come through the regional heats of the annual SkillBuild competition to win the national final in each of our three crafts and the top Senior and Junior construction trainees at the Corps of Royal Engineers’ Royal School of Military Engineering at Chatham.
Master Craftsman
The Company also recognises those who achieve higher levels of competence in our crafts through a combination of their own training, practical site experience and a willingness to assist in the training of others. This recognition takes the form of the award of Master Craftsman status at the Company’s Craft Awards Luncheon in March.
Craft Bursary Scheme
The Craft Bursary Scheme provides financial support and mentoring to students undertaking craft training with a recognised training provider. It is open to anyone between the ages of 16 and 66 who will be undertaking a recognised form of craft training. The training must relate directly to one of our three crafts, namely: -
• Bricklaying
• Roof Slating and Tiling
• Wall and Floor Tiling
Training may be full time or part time and can be for either modern or heritage craft training. The Scheme is open to employed, self-employed and unemployed students. Each successful applicant will receive £1,000 and help and support from a Craft Mentor, provided by the Company.
We are re-launching our website in the autumn of 2024
To keep up with developments and events and link with like-minded people, go to:
www.tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
TRIENNIAL AWARDS 2027
We will be arranging the next Triennial Awards for September 2027
Since the awards were revised and first presented in their modern format in 1972, this event will be the 55th anniversary of the Awards and the 18th Triennial Awards.
www.tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
The Worshipful Company of Tylers and Bricklayers
Master: Christopher Causer
Clerk: Heather Smith
Chairman - Craft Committee: Ian Wilson
clerk@tylersandbricklayers.co.uk
www.tylersandbricklayers.co.uk