Nestled within the historic Lower Ouseburn Valley Conservation Area, the Ouseburn Quays development stands as a thoughtful example of sustainable urban regeneration that honours the area's rich industrial past.
Led by McIver Homes and brought to life through the collaborative efforts of Xsite Architecture, S H E D Engineers, and ONE Environments, this project has transformed a former timber yard into a vibrant new community. Ibstock, known for its high quality bricks, played a central role in shaping this ambitious vision.
Covering just over a quarter of a hectare, Ouseburn Quays brings together 51 apartments, two small business units, and a landscaped courtyard that creates a welcoming sense of place. The site’s challenging topography has been embraced as part of the design, offering far reaching views across the valley while enhancing connections between spaces and people. The result is a neighbourhood that feels open and inviting, seamlessly woven into its surroundings.
Crafting Character Through Design
From the outset, the design team aimed to achieve both architectural excellence and sensitivity to context. Ibstock bricks were the natural choice for achieving this balance. Drawing inspiration from the area’s industrial character, the architects selected a material palette that reflects the rugged beauty of the Ouseburn’s heritage.
The use of Ibstock’s waterstruck and distressed faced bricks gives the buildings a timeless appearance, their subtle variations in tone and texture creating depth and visual interest. Accents such as glazed brick panels and timber detailing introduce warmth, helping to soften the urban form. Brick detailing, including corbelling and soldier courses, adds a crafted quality that elevates the development’s overall character and complements the historic skyline of the valley.
The design also supports an active street life. Small business units along the ground floor invite local enterprise and encourage interaction between residents and visitors. This blend of living and working spaces supports a vibrant, inclusive community that feels distinctly Ouseburn.
Sustainability Rooted in Longevity
Sustainability has been approached with authenticity and purpose. As advocates for responsible construction, Ibstock’s commitment to environmental stewardship aligns closely with the ethos of Ouseburn Quays. Manufactured with precision and care, Ibstock bricks are designed for durability and longevity, ensuring the development will stand the test of time. Their robustness reduces maintenance requirements and waste over the building’s lifespan, making them a truly sustainable choice for contemporary urban regeneration.
The production process also focuses on resource efficiency and responsible material sourcing. This attention to environmental impact complements the project’s wider sustainability goals, from the reuse of a brownfield site to the integration of landscaping that supports biodiversity and community wellbeing.
Ibstock’s collaboration with the Ouseburn Quays project highlights the transformative power of craftsmanship and innovative design. By leveraging the inherent beauty and versatility of brick, the development celebrates the area’s industrial heritage while paving the way for a more connected and resilient future. It is a shining example of how thoughtful design, material integrity, and sustainability can come together to create places that both respect the past and inspire the generations to come.
Brick Bulletin | Feature 273
