Shoemakers Museum in Somerset has been awarded the highest honour in UK brick architecture, taking home the prestigious Supreme Award at the Brick Awards 2026, held last night (4th November) at the Royal Lancaster London.
The project was the standout success of the Brick Development Association's landmark 50th anniversary celebrations, securing three accolades in total, including the Public, Sustainability and coveted Supreme Award.
Designed by Purcell Architects, with bricks manufactured by Northcot Brick and specialist brickwork delivered by A. Willmott Brickwork, Shoemakers Museum was recognised for its exceptional craftsmanship, sensitive approach to heritage and carefully considered environmental design.
Where heritage meets contemporary craftsmanship
Set within a site with a fascinating 200-year social history, Shoemakers Museum brings together historic architecture and contemporary design, creating a distinctive new setting that celebrates the area's shoemaking heritage.
The museum's collection of more than 30,000 shoes has provided inspiration for the architectural design, with abstract references to traditional craft techniques woven into the building's brickwork.
This attention to detail was a particular highlight for the judging panel, which praised the way the project combines architectural creativity with the exceptional technical skill required to bring its ambitious design to life.
Delivered within a challenging budget and programme, the project demonstrates how thoughtful material selection, intricate detailing and close collaboration can achieve an exceptional architectural result.
The judges highlighted the sensitive integration of the site's historic structures, alongside the quality of the new brickwork, which establishes a strong connection between the museum's past and present.
A considered approach to sustainability
Beyond its architectural qualities, Shoemakers Museum impressed judges with its holistic and practical approach to sustainability, securing the Sustainability Award in addition to its overall Supreme title.
The project incorporates locally sourced brick, reclaimed stone from the site and a composite timber structure, reflecting careful consideration of material selection and embodied carbon.
A fabric-first design approach and durable construction detailing were also recognised for supporting the building's long-term performance.
The project further integrates provision for local wildlife, demonstrating how environmental considerations can be embedded within sensitive heritage development.
The judges commented:
"The Shoemakers Museum brings together delightful brickwork, a strong response to the site's 200-year history and collection, and a thoughtful approach to sustainability. Delivered within a challenging budget and programme, it demonstrates impressive craftsmanship alongside carefully considered material choices, including locally sourced brick and reclaimed stone."
Together, these qualities established Shoemakers Museum as a deserving winner of the evening's highest accolade.
A fitting winner for a landmark anniversary
The Supreme Award represents the highest distinction presented at the Brick Awards, recognising a project that demonstrates exceptional achievement across architectural design, innovation, material use and craftsmanship.
Its presentation held particular significance this year as the Brick Awards celebrated 50 years of recognising excellence in clay brick architecture.
Rob Flello, Chief Executive of the Brick Development Association, said:
"Shoemakers Museum is an exceptional example of what can be achieved when architectural vision, craftsmanship and a deep understanding of the material come together.
"The project demonstrates how clay brick can be used to celebrate a building's heritage while creating something contemporary and distinctive. Its thoughtful approach to sustainability and the extraordinary skill evident in the brickwork make it a thoroughly deserving Supreme Winner.
"It is particularly fitting that, in our 50th anniversary year, the highest accolade should go to a project that so successfully brings together the qualities the Brick Awards have championed for five decades: creativity, collaboration, technical excellence and craftsmanship."
Shoemakers Museum was among 19 award winners celebrated at the ceremony, hosted by television presenter Phil Spencer, with projects recognised across residential, commercial, public, educational and specialist categories.
The project joins a distinguished history of Supreme Award winners, reflecting the very best in clay brick architecture and the continuing ambition of architects, manufacturers and craftspeople.
For more information about Shoemakers Museum and the Brick Awards 2026 winners, visit www.brick.org.uk/brick-awards.
Project details
Project:Â Shoemakers Museum
Location:Â Somerset
Architect:Â Purcell Architects
Brick manufacturer:Â Northcot Brick
Brick products:Â Grange Blend and Bourton Manor Handmade
Brickwork contractor:Â A. Willmott Brickwork
Brick Awards 2026:Â Supreme Award, Public Award and Sustainability Award
