York Handmade plays pivotal role in new student accommodation complex

Mark Laksevics of York Handmade said: “This was a very significant commission for us and we are absolutely delighted with the result. Although we are based in Yorkshire, we have a strong track record across the Pennines and Renshaw Hall is an important addition to our work in the North West.

“As Renshaw Hall is in a conservation area, the challenge was to produce a brick which was sympathetic to its surroundings. We created a rough and aged red Thirkleby Blend brick which has fitted in seamlessly with the adjacent red brick Georgian townhouses and squares.”

Renshaw Hall comprises 404 student bedrooms and features a cinema, games room, gym and social spaces, including private dining and a sky lounge.

Quentin Keohane, director at Falconer Chester Hall, said: “It was crucially important that York Handmade’s red brick correctly matched the adjacent brickwork, whilst offering the texture and roughness to provide interest over large elevational areas. The result is superb.”

“It was also important for us that York Handmade were members of the Brickmakers Quality Charter, ensuring the highest standards of ethical and sustainable brick manufacturing were closely adhered to.”

Mr Lacksevics added: “We were part of a great team with superb architectural work from Falconer Chester Hall and construction by the Claritas Group.

“The result is that Renshaw Hall has been entered for the prestigious Brick Awards, the Oscars of the brick industry, which take place in London this autumn.”