Purley Downs Road, Sanderstead a 7 unit development
Architects - Harp & Harp
This new development of seven family homes by Harp and Harp Architects replaces a single dwelling in the leafy suburb of Sanderstead. Nestled within a residential neighbourhood defined by period properties and echoes of the Arts and Crafts movement, the project was guided by a clear ambition: to integrate seamlessly with its surroundings while expressing a contemporary architectural language.
Material selection played a pivotal role in achieving this balance. The architects specified three distinct clay bricks, each chosen for its ability to respond to the local context in a nuanced and tactile way.
“The Vandersanden White Brick was chosen because of its texture,” explains Simon Harp.
“We wanted a brick with tactility—something that could cast shadows and emulate the coarse texture of traditional roughcast render found throughout the area.”
To complement the dominant red tones of the neighbourhood’s century-old brickwork, the team selected the TBS Keswick Blend:
“Its tonal variation was key. We needed a brick that felt settled in its environment, with hues that echoed the aged patina of local buildings.”
For detailing, Harp and Harp turned to Ketley’s Staffordshire Clay Creasing Tiles, known as Linium bricks when used in edge-laid applications. Their slender proportions and natural tone helped articulate the elevations and soften the massing of the new homes.
“We wanted a creasing tile that reflected those traditionally used in the area. Ketley’s product offered the quality and authenticity we were looking for.”
Together, the three brick types establish a cohesive material palette—playful yet grounded, contemporary yet respectful of local vernacular. The Linium bricks, in particular, introduce subtle detailing that breaks up the façades and enhances the rhythm of the street scene.
