Project Overview
Traditional Brick & Stone in close collaboration with EH Smith, Glenn Howells Architects, and Stepnell, proudly supplied our Arte brick for the construction of a new community centre built for the UK-based charity Sense. The TouchBase Pears centre was officially opened in 2018 by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal and provides a vital hub to support the local community.
Sense is a national charity that supports individuals who are deafblind or have complex disabilities, with the mission to ensure that everyone, regardless of their needs, can lead a full and active life.
Brick Type: Arte
Building Amenities
TouchBase Pears stands as a beacon of inclusive design, offering a wide array of facilities that benefit not only people with disabilities but also the broader Selly Oak community. Key features of this remarkable centre include:
A welcoming café
Comprehensive library facilities
A sensory garden
Conference facilities
An arts and performance centre
Office space for over 100 of the charity's employees
Why The Arte Brick? – Material Selection for Urban Regeneration
The selection of the Arte brick was pivotal in creating an architectural statement that respectfully nods to Birmingham's rich industrial heritage while embracing a warm and contemporary aesthetic. Its distinctive tone and textured finish to the bricks blend seamlessly into the evolving urban landscape of Selly Oak, contributing significantly to the area's ongoing urban regeneration efforts.
Conclusion
The Arte grey bricks were specifically chosen for their ability to deliver both durability and exceptional aesthetic appeal. This choice underscores a commitment to creating a welcoming, highly functional, and visually striking space. The use of our construction-ready Arte bricks ensured that the building stands as a testament to community development and vital disability support services across the UK.
Discover how our grey bricks can transform your next architectural project by combining historical resonance with modern functionality.
