Vobster Architectural, the specialist manufacturer of bespoke cast stone products and part of Taylor Maxwell Group, has contributed to the Shoemakers Museum in Street, Somerset, winner of the Supreme Award at the 2026 Brick Awards. The museum, designed by Purcell for the Alfred Gillett Trust, which preserves the heritage of Clarks and the local shoemaking industry, also received the Public Architecture Award and Sustainability Award.
Vobster Architectural manufactured and supplied bespoke cast stone elements for the museum, including external columns, window surrounds and copings. The products were designed to complement the existing natural stonework while meeting specific architectural and structural requirements. A particular challenge involved producing load-bearing columns capable of supporting substantial stone heads above. By incorporating integrated steel reinforcement, Vobster was able to meet the structural requirements while minimising joints and eliminating the need for a separate steel frame.
Marking 200 years of shoemaking heritage in Street, where Clarks was founded in 1825, the museum combines the sensitive restoration of historic buildings with a contemporary extension. Vobster’s cast stone detailing helps the new addition sit comfortably alongside the historic architecture.
Sustainability was central to the project, with more than 70% of the existing Blue Lias stone salvaged and redressed on site for reuse. The design also incorporates a cross-laminated timber and glulam structure, demonstrating how traditional materials can be combined with modern construction methods.
Adam Dowling, Technical Manager at Vobster Architectural, said, “It’s fantastic to see the Shoemakers Museum recognised with three awards, particularly the Supreme Award. This was a technically demanding project, with the cast stone required to complement the historic building while also performing a structural role. The reinforced columns were a particularly interesting challenge and we’re proud to have contributed to a project that brings together architectural heritage, craftsmanship and modern engineering.”
The Brick Awards, organised by the Brick Development Association, celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2026, with this year’s winners announced at a ceremony at the Royal Lancaster London on 4 November.
