In modern architecture, the timeless appeal of brick remains constant. As towns and cities expand and commercial spaces redefine urban aesthetics, architects are continuing to explore innovative ways to integrate traditional materials into contemporary designs. Mathew Davies, National Specification Manager for brick manufacturer Vandersanden, explains how bricks can deliver transformative solutions in commercial architecture.

Behind every modern, imaginatively-designed brick facade is likely to be a range of innovative masonry support. It’s the unsung hero of many wonderful private and public buildings; the unseen aesthetic and structural aid. But what else do we know about these vital, non-visible products? This feature provides an overview of how and why masonry support is needed in buildings and how it has allowed architects to set new parameters in brickwork design, says Ovidiu Bruzan, Senior Structural Engineer at IG Masonry Support.

Have you completed a wonderful brick project in the last two years? What are you waiting for? Enter it for a Brick Award today!

The standard of the entries for this year’s Brick Awards, the Oscars of the brick industry, has been exceptional. Each category has been hotly contested and the judges had to make some tremendously difficult decisions, with a few very close calls. So I’d like to offer my warmest congratulations not only to the winners of tonight’s awards, but also to everyone who was shortlisted and commended. You should all be very proud.

IG Masonry Support played a crucial role in the provision of a series of innovative brickwork solutions at the award-winning Borough Yards. These solutions successfully blend the old with the new, whilst retaining South London's Victorian railway heritage.

Comprising a total of 404 new homes, commercial space and public realm spaces, Southmere Village Phase 1B will bring to life an area of former economic deprivation.

Marshalls Bricks & Masonry’s Mayfair Vintage facing bricks have been used by housebuilder Backhouse on its Merlin Rise development to achieve a high-quality, reclaimed brick aesthetic that also aligns with the sustainability goals of the business.

George Spreckley, the Brick Development Association’s Events Manager, explicates the Brick Awards.

IG Masonry Support’s B.O.S.S. A1 offers true flexibility when creating stunning brick facades. Manufactured to meet A1 fire regulations, B.O.S.S. A1 is, quite simply, the boss of brick soffit systems.