Phase one of The Holloway is complete, a major milestone for Caxton Façades. This project sees the transformation of a derelict 1.4-acre brownfield site in Birmingham City Centre into a vibrant residential community.

Breathing new life into The Holloway

The project includes the development of four blocks, with the tallest reaching 14 storeys. Together, they bring 231 high-quality apartments to the area, addressing Birmingham’s growing demand for rental properties. Just a ten-minute walk from Birmingham New Street Station, the site had remained vacant for over 25 years, until. We’re proud to have contributed to this exciting project.

Community impact and highlights

Caxton Façades worked in partnership with main contractor Winvic Construction, architects Corstorphine & Wright, installing Stofix pre-pointed brick slip cladding system. This project highlights our capability to deliver complex projects that make a real difference to the community. With over 200 new homes added to Birmingham’s city centre, The Holloway plays a crucial role in the city’s wider regeneration efforts as part of the Big City Plan.

Winvic Construction – client feedback

Winvic Operations Manager, Ross Porter said, “Caxton Facades and Stofix UK are trusted and collaborative supply chain partners, consistently delivering quality workmanship ensuring façade installation is completed on time and to the highest standards. Their expertise and commitment to excellence drive efficiency and success across every project we’ve worked on together. This dedication is particularly evident in two of our major Birmingham city centre projects – The Bath House and The Holloway which required precision, expertise, and problem-solving to meet their complex design requirements.

Caxton’s ability to deliver a high-quality brick slip façade, coupled with their attention to detail and seamless execution, played a crucial role in achieving the architectural vision. Their innovative approach helped overcome key challenges and successfully incorporated intricate design features such as non-90-degree corners and deep window reveals on balconies.

Their dedication to quality, problem-solving, and collaboration sets them apart in the industry, and we look forward to continuing our successful partnership on future projects.”

Speaking to BTR News, Winvic’s Multi-Room Managing Director, Mark Jones said, “I wish to extend my gratitude to our dedicated team, along with the consultants and supply chain for their hard work and dedication at every step, driving the project forward to the practical completion of the first 231 apartments. I’m proud that we have exceeded the social value targets on the scheme by working with local partners to provide opportunities for employment and training and supporting community projects. The project’s recent CCS Gold Award and exceptional CCS scores throughout demonstrate our commitment to working considerately”.

Stofix pre-pointed panels

Stofix pre-pointed brick slip cladding was key to this project. This ventilated brick façade system combines the classic look of traditional brick with modern methods of construction. Since the panels are pre-pointed in the Stofix factory, installation was efficient, timely, and met the aesthetic vision of architects, Corstorphine & Wright.

Architectural features

Stofix’s flexible design capability made it possible to meet The Holloway’s unique architectural features, including angled corners and detailed window reveals. Custom-cut, three-storey box reveal corners added a bold, modern look while keeping the structure strong and weather-resistant. We utilised three different bricks in three different brick patterns – Stretcher, Soldier and Stacked. 

Lightweight system

One of the standout features of Stofix is the weight. The innovative system has one of the lowest weights per sqm on the market – from 37 kg per sqm, with other comparable systems coming in between 51 kg and 68 kg sqm – making it quicker to install and reducing the structural load on buildings. This lighter weight offers a significant advantage in terms of efficiency, safety, and cost, while still delivering the durability and visual appeal of traditional brickwork.

Overcoming architectural challenges

The Holloway site wasn’t without its hurdles, most notably its steep 13-metre slope. To tackle this, our team installed unique architectural elements including non-90-degree corners and deep window reveals on balconies. Using Stofix ventilated brick façade system panels, with custom-cut and three-storey box reveal corners, we installed a modern and striking aesthetic.

Collaborative success 

Caxton Facades Contracts Director, Tom Prince said, “The Holloway is a testament to the team’s dedication, application of learning, and teamwork. Working collaboratively with Winvic Construction, both parties have benefited from increased productivity and exemplary safety procedures and quality standards. This is down to close collaboration, communication and an appreciation of key business objectives. 

The level of professionalism demonstrated by the team has contributed to the successful operational delivery and installation of the highest quality product which Caxton Facades and our client can be proud of. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship with our valued client furthermore showcasing what we can achieve on our future schemes.”

Stofix Group feedback

Stofix Group Operations Director, Alex Porter added, “Caxton Façades has been a key partner in our supply chain for several years, playing a vital role in the ongoing development of our product and quality standards. Their expertise and feedback have helped us refine our solutions to meet the high expectations of clients on prestigious projects such as The Holloway. Our collaboration extends beyond supply and installation—by working closely together, we have enhanced product performance, streamlined processes which ensure seamless integration on-site. Their commitment to excellence and innovation has been invaluable, and we look forward to many more years of partnership.”

Community impact

The Holloway is much more than new homes. The development offers amenities designed to enrich residents’ lives, including co-working spaces, a gym, lounges, and beautifully landscaped courtyards. It’s also home to the new headquarters for Girlguiding Birmingham, which features activity rooms, a spacious main hall and a shop.

Look out for further updates as we complete Phase 2 later this year.