Keelson Yard

Keelson Yard comprises of six contemporary apartments and two semi-detached new builds in the town centre of Whitstable and in keeping with the Victorian suburban setting. Keystones unique double brick slip feature arch lintel adds character to the entrance of a semi-detached property, an integral and classic feature common with many homes from the Victorian period.

Challenge

Developer Arrant Land working with 31/44 Architects focus was to create a thoughtful design with the intention to achieve quiet form but not anonymity amongst the wider context of the street scene. In an area many properties are densely positioned, coherence and a recognisable local distinctiveness was required with the new builds by featuring strong gables, articulated bay windows and defined arched entrances.

Solution

Keystone’s technical team expertly designed a heavy-duty bespoke double brick slip feature arch lintel as opposed to two single arches. Keystone’s technical engineer identified an opportunity to fabricate a one-piece lintel design solution due to a 327.5mm bearing space at the piers. Each arch required a 1304mm span and 652mm rise suited to a 215mm wide inner leaf. Wienerberger Lincoln Red bricks were collected from site, then cut and bonded onto the face and soffit return of load bearing lintel offsite using a BBA approved high performance adhesive. Both elements of the design and brick bonding process helped to facilitate the speed of construction on site.

The massing and detail of the design produced a contemporary solution that acknowledges and reinforces the distinct architectural character of the town and respects the scale and proportions of the street. The dwellings, simple in function, include ornate front facades that focus attention on depth, modelling and texture with Keystone’s bespoke double brick slip feature arch lintel contributing to these factors.

Testimonial

“The project required two decorative full arch lintels for the front entrances. Keystones technical team provided a creative one-piece lintel design solution as an alternative to two singular arches. This saved time and provided an easier install on site. I was really impressed with the quality and consistency achieved for the heavy-duty prefabricated brick slip feature lintel within the short lead time provided.”

Duncan Blackmore

Director at Yellowjack Construction Limited