Reliance Works

The site consists of two key areas: The conversion of a 19th century street-facing Victorian factory and a historic shopping wing. The latter is hidden away and runs deep into the site. It is a conglomerate of warehouse additions which lack heritage value. Those are removed to reveal and reinstate the historic footprint of the site. This enables the reintroduction of a traditional courtyard arrangement, improving spatial qualities and reflecting the established morphology of the area.

The scheme provides apartments within the retained and extended factory and six new built mews houses to the rear. The mews houses are organised vertically across four storeys, responding to the constrained plan depth inspired by the vertical proportions of historic workshop buildings. A clear hierarchy is maintained with the front building remaining dominant.

These elements inform the scale, proportions, and material language of the development. Where the existing fabric cannot be retained, the rebuild is approached as a continuation of the original, maintaining coherence and reinforcing the historic character. This approach aligns with local planning guidance, which emphasises the importance of preserving significant structures while allowing for appropriate redevelopment.

The chosen material palette follows a contextual yet contemporary language, using materials such as red brick, slate roofing, black steelwork and timber-framed windows to reflect the surroundings. Historic features including timber gates, local pavers and original train tracks are restored or reinterpreted to enhance the site’s identity.

Sustainability is addressed through a fabric-first approach, improving thermal performance and integrating renewable technologies such as heat pumps and solar panels. Overall, the proposal balances conservation and development, delivering new housing that respects the Jewellery Quarter’s history while contributing to its ongoing regeneration.