Brick matching expertise delivers authentic solution for Quarry Bank Mill

1 May 2019 - News

One of the most important steps in renovating, repairing or extending a listed property is ensuring the construction materials match the existing building.

We have recently supplied new handmade bricks for Quarry Bank Mill, a Grade II* listed National Trust Property in Cheshire.

It was an industrial community built around a cotton mill, operating from 1784 to 1959 when it was donated to the National Trust. It’s now a major visitor attraction, visited by 180,000 people a year.

The recent refurbishment project included the construction of a passenger lift to give access to the whole site for people with mobility issues. This meant a lift shaft had to be built in the heart of the mill complex, close to the main visitor entrance.

Restorative infills in the exterior brickwork of Grade II* listed Quarry Bank Mill, using a bespoke blend of Reclamation Red handmade bricks. Close up of new passenger lift at Grade II* listed Quarry Bank Mill, built using a bespoke blend of Reclamation Red Handmade bricks.

As part of our brick matching service, we visited the site to record the exact colour and size of the old bricks, and after careful consideration, 3” Reclamation Handmade bricks with a bespoke finish were produced, ensuring the new lift shaft is indistinguishable from the surrounding brickwork of the original fabric of the mill.

Jason Hughes, Managing Director at Imperial Bricks, comments:

We work closely with contractors, planners and conservation officers to ensure the most suitable bricks are used in heritage projects. There is always a solution, even for the most unusual sites, and if there is no suitable brick from stock, our free brick matching service will produce a bespoke blend to make sure the end result is right.

It’s a privilege to be able to contribute to the renovation and improvements of such a historic property.

Additional structure added Grade II* listed building, using a bespoke blend of Reclamation Red Handmade bricks.

View project details … 

Talk to us about your next project or find out more about our brick matching service. Get in touch on 01746 330 994 or email [email protected]