Alfred Gunn House, Oldbury

As the Alfred Gunn House refurbishment in Oldbury approaches completion, we were delighted to revisit the site and see firsthand the remarkable transformation of this 1960s residential building. The project showcases how our Ceramapanel A1 fibre cement cladding panels have played a pivotal role in modernising the building’s exterior, bringing both aesthetic appeal and enhanced performance to the structure.

Installed by IPS Group using a rivet fix system, the panels feature our precision-engineered colour-matched rivets, ensuring a clean and cohesive finish across the façade. This fixing method not only contributes to the visual integrity of the design but also reinforces the durability and weather resistance of the cladding system.

The refurbishment, led by main contractors Seddon, has been extensive. It spans three tower blocks and includes the installation of new cladding, replacement of windows, enclosed balcony extensions, fire protection upgrades, lift modernisation, and the addition of a new external staircase. Beyond these enhancements, the project also involved the construction of ten new flats on the rooftop and the conversion of basement space into five additional homes, significantly increasing the residential capacity of the site.

Sandwell Council Urban Design (SMBC) specified a total of 3,216m² of Valcan’s Ceramapanel A1 fibre cement panels for the project. The panels were supplied in a carefully selected palette of complementary colours including Bleached Cotton, Light Slate, Rain Cloud, Linen, and Cappuccino - all in our Natural texture finish. This combination of tones and textures was chosen to harmonise with the surrounding environment while giving the building a fresh, contemporary identity.

Ceramapanel is engineered to meet the rigorous demands of modern construction. As an A1 non-combustible material, it offers superior fire safety, making it ideal for high-rise residential applications. Its fibre cement composition ensures long-term durability, resistance to moisture and UV exposure, and minimal maintenance over its lifecycle. The panels also provide excellent design flexibility, with a wide range of colours, textures, and fixing options available to suit diverse architectural styles.

The once-dated façade has been transformed into a sleek, modern exterior that not only enhances the building’s visual appeal but also improves its safety, efficiency for residents. This project stands as a testament to the value of collaboration, thoughtful design and high-performance materials in urban regeneration.