Specifiers in the UK must constantly balance a need for high-performance, sustainable materials against aesthetic considerations/requirements. However, architects can offer the best of both worlds through thoughtful specification.
To demonstrate this concept, brick specialist Michelmersh shared how its Blockleys Slate Grey Brick lays the foundations of style and lasting performance for one of Edinburgh’s most exciting residential developments…
Standing proudly on Edinburgh’s Leith Walk, The Tram Sheds is the final phase of The Engine Yard regeneration project, transforming the historic Shrubhill tram depot into a distinctive residential development.
With 43 new homes designed to integrate with their industrial heritage seamlessly, this project highlights the power of thoughtful material selection. Blockleys Sterling Grey clay brick is among the materials used, which defines the scheme's architectural character.
Answering architectural challenges
The Engine Yard depended upon finding a material that could unify the old and new, complementing existing red brick structures while offering a sleek, contemporary edge. Blockeys Sterling Grey was chosen for its ability to enhance the project's architectural language, bringing a refined, modern quality while respecting the site’s industrial past.
The material palette was carefully considered, and the brick’s texture, colour, and finish work in harmony with elements such as metal cladding and large industrial-style windows. This combination creates a refined yet bold architectural statement, reflecting the site’s heritage and contemporary purpose.
The brickwork plays a pivotal role in defining the character of the buildings. It clads the facades and accentuates key design elements, such as the central chimney stack in the open courtyard. The subtle grey tones provide sophisticated contrast against the retained period features, which ensures a cohesive visual transition across the development. The brickwork’s fine textures add a depth that reinforces the urban character of the scheme.
Blending style & performance
Visual appeal is far from the only consideration in material selection. Blockleys Sterling Grey was also chosen for its impressive technical performance. The brick's consistent composition allows for clean, precise detailing to meet the highest construction standards. It also offers superior weather resistance, ensuring exteriors remain robust and low-maintenance in Edinburgh’s changeable climate.
Explore The Tram Sheds
The Tram Sheds is more than a collection of new homes—it is a thoughtful regeneration of a historic site. The final development phase includes the Big Shed, Wee Shed, and Gap Building. All are unified by brick-built forms that echo their industrial origins.
Inside, the residences extend this character, with black-painted doors, anthracite kitchens, and contemporary steel elements reinforcing the strong architectural identity. Generous arched and pivot windows, solar-powered skylights, and raised ceiling Juliette balconies maximise natural light, creating spacious and refined interiors. Select homes feature private terraces, gardens, and balconies, offering outdoor space within the heart of the city.
Set within one of Edinburgh’s most vibrant districts, The Tram Sheds offers more than exceptional design—it delivers a dynamic urban lifestyle. Located moments from local cafés, restaurants, and cultural spots, the development is well-connected, with tram links providing direct access to the city centre.
Combine preservation and innovation with Blockleys
The careful restoration of this historic tram depot showcases how modern interventions can enhance rather than overshadow heritage architecture. By incorporating Sterling Grey bricks, the project achieves a seamless balance between preservation and innovation, ensuring its place as a landmark development in Edinburgh’s evolving cityscape.
If you’re interested in specifying Blockleys Slate Grey bricks or other Michelmersh products, browse the entire range in NBS Source.
