The Bank Buildings, a beloved landmark in Belfast and home to the popular retailer Primark, has recently undergone a remarkable transformation, featuring natural stone cladding as a key design element.
The Bank Buildings in Belfast boast a rich and storied history that resonates with the city’s commercial evolution. Construction was completed in 1877, this iconic structure was designed in a Victorian architectural style as the headquarters for the Ulster Bank. Its grand facade, with intricate stonework and detailing, reflects the prosperity of the time and the growing significance of Belfast as a financial centre. Over the years, the Bank Buildings not only served as a hub of banking activities but also became a prominent landmark within the city. Tragically, in 2018, a major fire significantly damaged the structure, prompting a renewed focus on its historical importance. This lead to discussions about restoration and preservation, ensuring that this historic building continues to be a vital part of Belfast’s architectural heritage.
We were entrusted with the full stonemasonry package that encompassed the design, supply, and installation of all the exterior stonework. The stones selected for this project were; Locharbriggs Sandstone, Balmoral Red Granite, and Indian Black Granite. Each material was carefully chosen for their unique qualities and aesthetic appeal. Our aim was to achieve a timeless finish that not only complements but also harmonises beautifully with the historic context of the Bank Buildings and its surroundings.
Once the raw materials were procured, they were transported to our state-of-the-art factory located in Saintfield, Northern Ireland. Here, our highly skilled stonemasons employed their expertise to finish each stone by hand. This meticulous process allowed us to maintain the highest quality standards throughout production, ensuring that every piece met our expectations. This attention to detail reflects our commitment to excellence in stonemasonry and highlights the significance of the project we were honoured to be a part of.
Read more about our process here.
Today Primark occupies the building with their thriving clothing store employing over 300 people right in the heart of Belfast City Centre. It was a privilege to be selected and entrusted with the stonemasonry work for such a historically significant building located so close to home.
