FastClad

It is hard to believe that this charming assisted living development for Northampton Partnership Homes is a prefabricated, pre-clad, panelised factory manufactured project.Designed by Maber Architects and manufactured by Accord's LoCal Homes business, this project demonstrates that prefabricated doesn't have to mean that aesthetics are compromised. Utilising both faces of the Wienerberger New Red Multi Gilt Stock brick, FastClad's factory bonded brick cladding system was by far the most natural brick façade without having to resort to a traditional brick skin. 

Barbican House shows that you can take a structure with an old and tired facade, and bring it into the new millennium by adding a contemporary rainscreen, combining both modern and traditional materials.The FastClad brick slip element was manufactured using a mix of red/brown and grey Petersen bricks supplied by European Building Materials, delivered to site and installed by the main contractor.Working closely with Marek Wojciechowski Architects, the brick slip rainscreen integrates with the metal rainscreens and windows to create a stunning new facade to what is now a high end residential and commercial development

Location: East LondonClients: Bellway and L&QArchitect: Boon BrownProject OverviewBarking Riverside was one of the UK’s most significant regeneration projects, transforming East London’s riverside landscape. Situated on the former Barking Power Station site and adjacent to the Thames, this extensive development spans over 443 acres and offers over 10,000 new homes. With 2km of river frontage, Barking Riverside has created a thriving, sustainable community that redefines urban living. Project Scope and FastClad's InvolvementBoon Brown Architects were appointed as lead consultant architects and landscape architects for Phase 1, which included 227 dwellings ranging from terraced townhouses to podium decks and mansion block apartments. Following the completion of the Stage 4 design, their role was extended to cover an additional 482 apartments in Phase 2. This phase introduced a unique layout, with townhouses and apartments grouped into four pods surrounding a shared car park zone.FastClad’s role in this project was the brick cladding of balconies. The development’s proximity to the Thames estuary, within 5km of a saltwater environment, posed challenges related to corrosion resistance. FastClad’s brick slip cladding system was applied to lightweight steel support structures, also supplied by FastClad, which was powder-coated with an A2 coating to ensure enhanced corrosion protection in this Salt water environment. The FastClad system not only met the aesthetic demands of matching the main brickwork façade but also provided a durable, low-maintenance solution for these external elements.Challenges and SolutionsBarking Riverside presented several complex challenges due to its size, salt water environment, and advanced infrastructure.  Key challenges addressed by FastClad included:Saltwater Corrosion: Given the site’s proximity to the Thames estuary, the steel supports for the balconies required extra protection. FastClad worked closely with the project team to advise and supply steel that was powder-coated, providing necessary corrosion resistance while delivering a high-quality brick slip finish.Balcony Design and Aesthetic Integration: The lightweight steel balconies were clad in situ with FastClad to match the main building’s brickwork, ensuring a seamless visual appearance. This allowed the design team to incorporate traditional brick aesthetics without the load-bearing constraints of solid masonry.Architectural Design and Aesthetic AppealBarking Riverside’s design draws on the site’s industrial history while embracing contemporary architecture. The use of FastClad brick slip systems on the balconies played a key role in maintaining aesthetic continuity, ensuring that the project’s façade maintained a consistent, high-quality brick finish. Additionally, FastClad’s low-maintenance, durable solution met both aesthetic and functional demands, contributing to the project’s long-term sustainability goals.With careful coordination, innovative systems, and the use of advanced materials like FastClad, Barking Riverside has become a landmark development showcasing how modern building techniques can meet the demands of large-scale urban regeneration.

This development of 104 apartments was built on behalf of the Metropolitan Housing Trust by Guildmore on an infill site at Barrington Road, Brixton, which forms part of the Loughborough Estate.The project was designed to meet Level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes and has been tested to meet BS8414 part 2 Fire Performance of External Cladding Systems.FastClad Brick Slip Rainscreen Cladding System was used on the tower elements at the end of the main block, the balconies, as well as the third and fourth floors of the main building.FastClad was chosen for it’s weight, ease of installation, fire properties, as well being indistinguishable from the areas of traditionally laid masonry

Project Overview: Brook House is a residential development characterised by its modern architecture and sophisticated design elements, located in the bustling urban environment of London. One of the standout features of the project is the integration of lightweight steel balconies that have been clad in situ using FastClad brick slip systems to seamlessly match the building's primary brickwork. This combination of traditional aesthetics with cutting-edge construction methods provided both functional and visual harmony with the reinforced concrete (RC) frame of the building.Challenge: The project required a cladding solution that would not only blend aesthetically with the main brickwork but also reduce the weight burden on the balconies while maintaining high performance in terms of durability and compliance with building regulations. Additionally, the system needed to be efficient in installation to keep up with the fast-paced construction schedule of a large-scale development.Solution: The FastClad system was selected for its proven versatility in cladding balconies and façades, particularly in high-rise or urban residential projects. FastClad’s lightweight brick slip system was ideal for the steel balconies at Brook House, offering a real brick finish that perfectly matched the building’s main structure, all while minimising the additional load on the steel framework.The system, known for its ease of installation and factory-controlled quality, ensured that the project could meet its tight deadlines without compromising on finish or safety. The cladding was applied in situ, after FastClad collected bricks from site and cut them into 15mm slips which were then factory bonded to the patented backing boards before returning to site to create a seamless connection between the balconies and the main building’s RC frame. This eliminated the need for complex on-site brickwork, ensuring consistent quality and reducing reliance on skilled labour.Results: The use of FastClad allowed for a visually cohesive façade, ensuring the balconies appeared as an integrated part of the overall structure rather than add-ons. FastClad’s lightweight nature also helped in reducing the engineering demands on the steel balconies, while still offering the desired traditional brick appearance. This project highlights how FastClad can combine aesthetic goals with technical requirements, offering a balance between form and function, especially in complex developments like Brook House.

Project Overview:Location: Old Kent Road, Southwark, LondonArchitect: Emoli PetroschkaContractor: Allenbuild Ltd South EastClient: London and QuadrantThis case study highlights how FastClad, a BBA-approved lightweight brick slip system, played a crucial role in the success of a mixed-use residential development consisting of 92 units in South East London. The project met stringent design and structural requirements while delivering a traditional brickwork aesthetic, all thanks to the innovative FastClad system.Challenge: Achieving Design Complexity with Limited Structural SupportThe architectural vision for this project, designed by Emoli Petroschka, included offset brickwork panels around balcony openings and windows. This design feature, while visually striking, posed significant structural challenges. Traditional brickwork would have required additional support, which could have compromised the design's clean, modern aesthetic and increased costs.Moreover, the client, London and Quadrant, needed a cost-effective solution that would speed up construction without sacrificing durability or quality.Solution: FastClad Brick Slip SystemFastClad was selected to meet these challenges due to its ability to deliver the look of traditional brick while reducing the need for extensive structural support. The lightweight nature of FastClad made it possible to implement the intricate design elements, such as the projecting header detail, without compromising the building's structural integrity.Key benefits of FastClad in this project:Lightweight and Flexible Design: FastClad allowed for complex architectural designs, including canted back brickwork, without requiring extra support, streamlining the construction process.BBA-Certified Quality: FastClad’s certification ensured compliance with building standards, offering long-term durability and weather resistance.Traditional Aesthetic: The system maintained the authentic appearance of traditional brick, essential for matching the design brief and blending with the surrounding architecture.Execution: Seamless Collaboration with ContractorsAllenbuild Ltd South East, the primary contractor, worked closely with our team to integrate FastClad into the project without disrupting timelines. The system’s modular format allowed for quick installation, minimising delays and on-site labor costs. With the help of planning consultants BPTW and structural engineers Tully De’Ath, FastClad was applied to the areas around balcony openings and windows, delivering a stunning result that met both aesthetic and functional goals.Outcome: A Beautiful and Efficient DevelopmentCompleted in December 2013, the Old Kent Road development stands as a testament to how FastClad can elevate even the most complex architectural designs. The result is a visually appealing, structurally sound, and cost-effective building that enhances Southwark's urban landscape.Key Results:92 Residential Units Delivered On-TimeEnhanced Design Flexibility Without Structural CompromiseFast Installation, Saving Time and Labor CostsDurable, Weather-Resistant Brick Cladding SolutionConclusion: FastClad as the Ideal Solution for Modern DevelopmentsFastClad enabled the successful realisation of a complex architectural vision on Old Kent Road, helping the client, architect, and contractors meet their goals efficiently. Its ability to replicate traditional brick while offering modern performance makes FastClad the ideal choice for mixed-use and residential developments.If you're looking for a brick cladding solution that balances design, performance, and cost, FastClad is here to deliver. Contact us today to learn how FastClad can support your next project.Why Use FastClad for Your Next Project?Cost-EfficiencyFaster InstallationCompliance with Building StandardsReduced Structural Demands

The Saw Swee Hock Student Centre at the London School of Economics (LSE) is more than just a building—it's a landmark of modern architectural innovation. Designed by the award-winning O'Donnell + Tuomey Architects, this project stands out for its angular, dynamic form and striking brick façade. FastClad’s brick slip system played a role in bringing this vision to life, addressing the project's aesthetic, technical, and logistical challenges.Meeting the Architectural ChallengeThe distinctive design of the Saw Swee Hock Student Centre presented a unique challenge: creating a visually impactful brick façade on a complex, angular structure within the constraints of a busy urban environment. The building’s exterior required a solution that balanced traditional brick aesthetics with modern engineering. FastClad’s lightweight, flexible brick slip system proved to be the ideal choice, especially for the soffits and the flue, areas where space, weight, and installation time were critical considerations.Why FastClad?FastClad’s contribution was integral to the success of the project. Known for its lightweight brick cladding properties, FastClad enabled the creation of large soffits and a functional yet visually appealing flue system, without adding significant weight or requiring heavy engineering solutions. This flexibility made it perfect for urban construction projects where structural load and space are at a premium.Overcoming ChallengesWorking on a tight city site with a complex design required innovative solutions. FastClad provided the efficiency and precision necessary to meet these demands. Its BBA Certified system offered a durable, low-maintenance cladding solution that replicated the timeless appeal of traditional brickwork while complying with modern building regulations. FastClad’s quick installation process was key in keeping the project on schedule, providing the architects and construction teams with a seamless solution that integrated perfectly into the building’s overall design.A Successful OutcomeThe result is a building that has not only won awards but has also become a point of reference in modern architecture. The Saw Swee Hock Student Centre showcases how FastClad can deliver outstanding results in high-profile, complex builds, without sacrificing efficiency or quality.This project highlights how FastClad’s innovative solutions can meet the demands of contemporary architecture while preserving the aesthetic and practical advantages of traditional materials.#FastClad #architecture #innovation #cladding #urbanconstruction #modernbuilding #SawSweeHock #LSE #O’DonnellTuomey #brickslip

Traditional Brick for a Modern AestheticFastClad was introduced to this project by EH Smith Clay Products as the best solution for processing the First Quality Facing bricks, which were critical for meeting the planning conditions, to provide a real brick faced rainscreen with a BBA Certified minimum design life of 60 years.The mission was to construct affordable housing on a difficult to access site and to demonstrate that social housing that has not been traditionally built looks as good, if not better, than traditionally built private developments.Taking the external skin off the critical path of the build, delivering the equivalent of 1,200 bricks on one pallet (as opposed to three packs of brick) to save site compound space and being able to strip the full scaffold to install the FastClad off mobile towers freeing up the site for other trades, are just some of the benefits of moving away from a full masonry build up.

Project Overview: Melvin Hall, Lightweight Expansion with FastClad A2Client: Benson Construction Location: Melvin Hall, London  Construction Details: The Melvin Hall project aimed to expand an existing block of flats by adding a lightweight 5th floor. This additional level required innovative solutions to meet safety, aesthetic, and structural requirements without imposing excessive weight on the existing structure. ACS’s FastClad A2 product, a robust brick slip cladding system, provided the ideal solution due to its lightweight design, non-combustible A2-s1,d0 fire rating, and compatibility with modern building techniques. Challenges: Adding a new level to an existing building posed unique challenges. The primary concern was maintaining the structural integrity of the original construction while ensuring that the new addition met stringent fire safety and insulation standards. The project also demanded a seamless aesthetic match between the existing façade and the new level, ensuring a cohesive look across all five floors.Solution: FastClad A2 was chosen for its exceptional lightweight properties, making it perfect for non-load-bearing applications like the Melvin Hall expansion. FastClad A2 provided the look of traditional masonry without the weight. Its A2 fire rating further made it suitable for a residential building exceeding 18 meters, satisfying regulatory requirements for safety in high-rise applications. Additionally, FastClad’s flexibility allowed the design team to choose from any clay brick types and textures manufactured to EN 771-1to be used to match the building's existing façade. Benefits:Lightweight Solution: FastClad A2 reduced the load on the original structure, allowing the building to support an additional floor.Fire Safety: Achieving A2-s1,d0 fire resistance, FastClad A2 provided peace of mind in terms of regulatory compliance and resident safety.Efficient Installation: The pre-fitted brick cladding streamlined installation, minimising time on-site and reducing labour requirements.Aesthetic Continuity: The system enabled the architects to deliver a visually cohesive façade, blending the old with the new seamlessly.Outcome: The Melvin Hall project is a testament to the versatility of FastClad A2. The addition of the fifth level was completed without compromise to safety or design, providing residents with a modern, safe, and visually appealing expansion to their home.

Factory fixed brick slip cladding to sheltered housing project

A private client engaged Urbancurve Architecture to design three bespoke family dwellings, incorporating modern living spaces within a unique aesthetic. Monaghan Martin Limited, the appointed builder, managed both phases of the development, which included complex infrastructure and full fit-outs. The development was designed to reflect contemporary architecture using a combination of high-quality materials: FastClad brick slip systems, Vandersanden Platina bricks, render, and standing seam metal cladding.

Utilising the same bricks as were being laid by the bricklayers to the masonry walls, FastClad supplied the cladding to the balconies so that there was a seamless match.Collecting bricks from site to ensure that they were from the same production run, the slips were cut and bonded to our profiled backing board at our Leicester factory.These boards were then returned to site for mechanical fix to the balcony structures and pointed in a lime mortar to match that of the cement mortar being used by the bricklayers at an off-site compound.The balconies were then craned into position and fixed to the structure.

The addition of three extra stories to a traditionally built structure required a lightweight SIPS frame with FastClad brick slip system external skin, utilising the same bricks as the lower structure, to enable this to be achieved.This award winning project was created to meet the huge demand in London for high-quality, purpose-built Build to Rent apartments. Designed by Newground Architects, Rehearsal Rooms was one of London’s first institutionally backed BTR schemes. FastClad was chosen for it’s weight, ease of installation, fire properties, as well being indistinguishable from the areas of traditionally laid masonry.