​Successful listing in Birmingham, the Samuel Heath and Sons Head Offices (1888, David Henry Ward)

The Samuel Heath and Sons factory at Leopald Street, Birmingham, has been in use for over two hundred years. The company was founded in 1820 producing high-quality brassware - from bedsteads to gas lamps. In the late 19th century, the firm commissioned architect David Henry Ward to design new offices at the site.

They were completed in 1888 with an extension to the southeast a year later. In 1891 this extension was built upon by J J Bateman and Bateman adding two further stories. Further works were completed between 1913 and 1914, as well as later additions in the 20^th century.

The principal office block is a symmetrical five-bay range with Jacobean influences over two storeys, with two gables on either end fronting the street.

The offices are red brick with a blue-brick plinth, all in Flemish bond. The gables are capped with stones which scroll at the apex, with stone urn finials topping giant brick pilasters framing the end bays, sections of which are fluted. There are Italianate details including brick pilasters supporting a pediment above containing acanthus leaves and a dentilled cornice, as well as ionic capitals.

Following Victorian Society caseworker, Tim Bridges’, application Historic England has listed the offices for their architectural interest and high-quality craftsmanship as well as the historic interest as testament to Birmingham’s industrial development with Samuel Heath and Son operating on the site since the company’s inception.

14/04/2022