Tea Factory

Location: Digbeth, Birmingham

Brick Manufacturers: Michelmersh Brick Holdings PLC / Ibstock PLC

Brick Names: Carlton Clayburn / Staffordshire Blue Brindle

Architect: BDP

Brickwork Contractor: Euro Building & Maintenance Contractors Ltd

The transformation of the former Typhoo Tea Factory in Digbeth, Birmingham, into the new BBC Midlands Headquarters is one of the most significant commercial regeneration projects undertaken in the UK in recent years. Delivered by BAM UK & Ireland, the development has revitalised a long-derelict industrial landmark, creating a world-class broadcasting and production facility while preserving an important part of Birmingham's industrial heritage.

Euro Building and Maintenance Contractors Ltd was appointed to deliver a £1.356 million brickwork package as part of this prestigious scheme. Over a 12-month period, our team laid approximately 250,000 bricks, employing up to 50 operatives at peak production. The project demanded exceptional levels of craftsmanship, coordination and attention to detail throughout, particularly given the challenges associated with working within and around a retained historic structure.

The external masonry package utilised Carlton Clayburn and Ibstock Staffordshire Blue Brindle Smooth facing bricks, specified in a vertically perforated format measuring 215mm x 102.5mm x 65mm. The carefully selected brick palette provided a rich and authentic appearance that complemented the industrial character of the original Tea Factory while delivering a contemporary architectural finish suitable for the BBC's new Midlands headquarters.

A defining feature of the project was the construction of substantial exposed face brickwork within the central atrium. Designed to become a focal point of the completed building, the atrium masonry incorporated large feature brick piers extending through the building and visible from multiple levels. Constructed using Carlton Clayburn and Ibstock Staffordshire Blue Brindle Smooth facing bricks, the piers combined traditional English bond detailing with carefully positioned hit-and-miss courses using contrasting brick types to create texture, depth and visual interest. Every element remained fully exposed, demanding exceptional levels of accuracy, workmanship and quality control throughout the construction process.

Achieving perfect alignment, gauge control, bond accuracy and joint consistency across these highly visible masonry elements required meticulous planning and highly skilled bricklayers. The exposed nature of the work meant there was no opportunity for remedial finishes, placing a premium on quality from the first brick laid to final completion. Extensive quality control procedures were implemented throughout the works to ensure the finished product met the exacting standards demanded by both the client and design team.

The project also presented significant logistical challenges, requiring close coordination with multiple trades operating within a live regeneration environment. Through proactive management and strong collaboration with BAM UK & Ireland and the wider project team, Euro successfully delivered the brickwork package safely, efficiently and to an exceptional standard.

The completed BBC Midlands Headquarters demonstrates the enduring value of clay brick construction in both heritage restoration and contemporary architecture. Combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative design, the project has transformed an iconic Birmingham landmark into a vibrant centre for broadcasting, creativity and innovation. The quality of the exposed atrium brickwork, the successful integration of new masonry within a historic structure and the delivery of 250,000 bricks over a demanding programme make this project a showcase of modern bricklaying excellence and a project of which everyone involved can be immensely proud.