Manchester Brick Specialists
Transforming a heritage building into a modern showroom that balances history and innovation
Project Overview
Manchester Brick Specialists set out to create the North’s first dedicated brick showroom, located in the historic Royal Mill in Ancoats. The aim was to showcase 400+ unique bricks in a space that celebrated both the city’s industrial heritage and modern architectural ambition. Ripple helped bring that vision to life with a complete concept design and fit-out, turning the space into a curated, working showroom that doubles as a hub for architects and specifiers.
Project Details
the challenge
Manchester Brick saw a clear opportunity: no one in the region was showcasing bricks at scale — and certainly not in a space tailored for both traditional restoration and modern builds. They needed to create a showroom that reflected Manchester’s dual identity: raw and refined. The space had to display heavy, tactile samples without feeling cluttered, while also supporting professional consultations, breakout rooms, and inspiring customer journeys — all within the characterful but demanding setting of a listed industrial building.
Our Solutions
A full showroom fit-out combining high-load display systems, industrial-led design, and architect-friendly work zones – all delivered with precision to reflect Manchester’s heritage and future.
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3D Layout & Material-Led Design
Ripple explored layout and finishes that honoured the Royal Mill’s industrial past, designing a visual journey that felt curated yet robust. 3D visuals mapped the customer journey, guiding how architects and trade visitors would move through and experience the space.
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High-Capacity Brick Display Systems
Ripple designed and manufactured specialist shelving systems capable of showcasing hundreds of full brick samples without compromise on safety or style. Shelving was engineered in-house to support weight and frequency of handling, while aligning with the raw material palette of the space.
Integrated Restoration & Fit-Out Delivery
Ripple handled everything from ceiling restoration to fixture install. This included a two-week sandblasting process to uncover original brick ceiling arches, integrating old and new in one cohesive environment. All furniture and fittings were produced in-house, ensuring quality control and a tight turnaround.
The new showroom is incredible and we couldn’t have done it without the amazing Ripple. They’re the genius minds who helped design and develop the space. Our appreciation can’t be understated.
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Installation & Launch
Ripple delivered the full showroom concept and fit-out:
- 3D layout design rooted in industrial cues
- Specialist fabrication of high-load shelving systems
- Consultation areas and architect-friendly workspaces
- Material selection to complement the exposed brick fabric of the Royal Mill building
- Ceiling restoration via two weeks of sandblasting to uncover original arches
Once approved, our team took the project from design to manufacture and managed the full on-site installation.
The Ancoats showroom launched with success and made an immediate impression. Visitors praised the bold visual layout, tactile displays, and nods to Manchester’s industrial past. It now stands as a landmark for the brand, proof that even individual bricks can tell a design story.
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Project Gallery
