Contact Details

Copyright © 21/12/07

Site
maintained
by
Trellis

Handmade bricks

All waste is a misplaced resource

A handmade brick operation was initially set up at Bore Place to make use of the vast amount of clay displaced when Commonwork Organic Farms dairy unit was constructed in 1977, and was a key part of the educational experience offered to visitors.

Chiddingstone Brickworks Limited was producing 250,000 quality hand-made bricks a year selling to architects, builders and homeowners looking for the quality, characteristic colour and the unique wreathed 'smile' which makes each brick both attractive and weather well.

This was an efficient use of the existing resources but the commercial aspect of this particular operation proved unsustainable and was closed in early 2002.

The brickworks had a new lease of life from 2002-2007 when it was taken over by an established brickmaking family. They were ably assisted by former Chiddingstone brickmakers, Tony and Bryan Nichols. However in summer 2007, they decided to close due to other commitments. We were sad about this, both for the staff who had been involved with us at Bore Place for many years, and for our students and visitors who loved to have a go at brickmaking and learn about this old craft.

We hope to find a way to process the clay so that we can continue to offer claywork and brickmaking to the many schools who enjoy this hands-on activity.