Best Structural Use of Brick

The Forum, Norwich

Architect Hopkins Architects
Structural engineer Whitbybird
Bricks Ibstock
Brickwork contractor RG Carter

Hopkins Architects has done it again with yet another prominent landmark brick building that follows previous successes at Glyndeborne and the Inland Revenue, Nottingham. The Forum is a county library, visitor centre, business and learning resource centre that has already become popular and well-used. Horseshoe in shape, the open end is a glazed atrium whereas the sides and circular ends are in load-bearing, English-bonded, solid brickwork.

The judges were impressed by the scale of this building and by its use of larger than normal handmade bricks. They also liked the way the square white concrete nodes punctuating the outer face of the brickwork express the physical connection between the brickwork and the concrete floor slabs. The use of lime mortar has obviated the need for expansion joints.

Runners-up

South Porch, Royal Albert Hall, London

Architect and structural engineer Building Design Partnership
Bricks Ibstock Brick
Brickwork contractor Paye Stonework & Restoration

Haberdashers’ Hall, London EC1A

Architect Hopkins Architects
Structural engineer Arup
Bricks Charnwood Forest
Brickwork contractor Swift Brickwork