Hampden Fields East, Aylesbury

The challenge

Creating a recognisable character across a large scheme requires a careful balance between variety and consistency. Taylor Wimpey wanted neighbouring properties to look different from one another while ensuring the wider development retained a cohesive architectural character.

The chosen materials also needed to perform on site. With construction taking place over several years, maintaining dependability in appearance, quality and supply would be critical to preserving standards across every phase of the build.

To meet these challenges, Marshalls Bricks & Masonry worked closely with Taylor Wimpey from the early stages of the development, providing technical, specification and manufacturing expertise to help identify a solution that could deliver both the desired visual impact and reliable performance throughout the build.

The solution

Earlswood Grey and Quartz White facing bricks were selected to provide two complementary finishes across Hampden Fields East. Used in different combinations, the two brick finishes help break up the streetscape and give neighbouring properties a different appearance.

As Site Manager Matthew Murray explains: "It's got a nice pattern as you go through site. With the brick detail as well, it makes them pop a bit more."

Alongside aesthetics, on-site performance has been equally important. Feedback from bricklayers highlighted the consistency of the bricks' size, shape and finish, helping maintain build quality while supporting productivity.

Matthew Murray comments: "The quality has stayed the same all the way through the project."

Bricklayer Tom Homer adds: “They’re quite uniform in size and shape so it makes our job a lot easier”

Site supervisor Terry Bampton also highlighted the finished appearance and quality of the product: "There are less chips. It's a neater-looking brick."

Supporting long-term delivery

With construction continuing until 2030, reliable supply is essential to maintaining progress across the development. Marshalls Bricks and Masonry works closely with the site team to coordinate deliveries and respond to changing programme requirements, providing flexibility throughout the build.

Site Manager Matthew Murray explains: "We need to make sure that we have the right material on site whenever we need it. If we need to pull forward or push back deliveries, Marshalls is always accommodating so we get what we need on site when we need it."

This combination of product consistency and collaborative supply allows Taylor Wimpey to maintain the same standards as Hampden Fields East continues to grow.

The outcome

As Hampden Fields East continues to take shape, the combination of Earlswood Grey and Quartz White bricks is helping create an attractive development with a strong sense of place.

The project demonstrates how the right material choice can deliver both design and construction benefits, backed by positive feedback from bricklaying teams and dependable supply support throughout the build.

The success of the project builds on a longstanding relationship between Taylor Wimpey and Marshalls Bricks and Masonry.