Chester University - Tramways

The Challenge
Tramways is a 402-bedroomed new build student accommodation complex for Chester University. It comprises 356 en-suite cluster rooms and 56 en-suite studios incorporating communal kitchens and living rooms.

The development was to be split into five blocks of accommodation, with each block between three and five storeys in height. 

The Solution
Forterra’s Dark Multi Smooth and County Multi Smooth bricks were selected for the project’s facing brickwork. Used alongside zinc wall cladding, these red bricks helped to create interest and variety in the external appearance of each of the five blocks.

Part of Forterra’s Butterley range of bricks they are both smooth, wirecut bricks. While County Multi Smooth is a fully red brick, Dark Multi Smooth introduces elements of blue.

The Benefits
The juxtaposition of the metallic cladding with the red and blue facing brickwork ensures the Tramways development offers its own, unique architectural interest while at the same time complementing the local built environment of this part of Chester.