At Telling Rainscreens, we are proud to be at the forefront of innovative, high-performance façade systems in the UK, delivering materials that not only define architectural aesthetics but also enhance performance and sustainability. Our long-standing partnership with Argeton, one of the world-renowned manufacturers of terracotta cladding, continues to inspire projects of distinction, and few demonstrate this better than the new residential project in Sherlock street in Birmingham which has recently been shortlisted for the Facade Awards UK 2025.

We are thrilled to share that this landmark development has been shortlisted for the category of Best Use of a Rainscreen System Using Glass, Ceramics or Stone  for its Argeton terracotta cladding.

A Cladding System That Blends Beauty, Functionality and Sustainability

Argeton terracotta rainscreen cladding is not just a façade solution, it is a design philosophy grounded in precision engineering, timeless aesthetics, and environmental consciousness. Made from natural clay and fired at high temperatures, Argeton panels offer architects and designers the flexibility to realise bold visions without compromising on durability or performance.

Located in Birmingham city centre, the Sherlock Street tower constitutes a new residential development with 4500 sqm of profiled terracotta tiles in a glazed green finish and recessed shadow joints that span over 30 storeys.  

Impeccably delivered by Precision Facades, the project houses high-quality apartments, affordable homes, and commercial space of huge significance as part of the redevelopment of the area.

This material was chosen for its sustainability profile and its ability to blend with the local architectural landscape, which has a history of using faience (glazed ceramic) in buildings.

The terracotta panels lend depth, and texture to the building envelope, achieving a visually engaging façade that resonates with the surrounding urban fabric. From the very beginning, the design team was committed to delivering a façade that would age gracefully, meet rigorous technical standards, and reflect their forward-looking ethos, all while maintaining cost and installation efficiency. Argeton delivered on all fronts.

Sherlock street: A Showcase of Modern Façade Engineering

Designed as a high-quality residential development the Sherlock street project in Birmingham is a benchmark in cutting edge design that blends gracefully with the traditional townscape profile of the area it sits in. The architectural language is an exquisite interplay of texture, volume, rhythm, and hierarchy, a narrative that Argeton terracotta delivered seamlessly.

The system was specified for its clean lines, colour stability, and robust performance. It serves not only as a rainscreen to protect the building from environmental elements but also as an expressive material that anchors the building in its context proving that technical complexity and architectural ambition can go hand in hand.

Why Argeton? The Architects’ Choice

Argeton has become synonymous with high-end rainscreen façades across Europe and the UK, and it’s easy to see why. Here are just a few reasons why Argeton was the ideal choice for the Sherlock street project:

1. Natural Aesthetics

With a wide range of colours, profiles, and surface textures, Argeton allows architects to explore unique design expressions that go far beyond standard façades.

2. Technical Performance

The Telling Rainscreens Argeton terracotta cladding system offers superior weather resistance, thermal insulation performance and has low maintenance requirements. The clay is inherently frost-resistant and non-combustible, achieving A1 fire classification, making it ideal for high-rise commercial and residential buildings.

3. Sustainability

Manufactured from 100% natural clay and completely recyclable at the end of life, Argeton terracotta is an eco-conscious choice. The production process is energy-efficient, and the long lifespan of the product supports circular economy principles. It’s a solution that aligns well with universities, public bodies and residential developments seeking to meet net-zero targets and sustainability commitments.

4. Precision Engineering

With its exacting manufacturing standards and support from Telling Rainscreens’ in-house technical team, Argeton panels can be fabricated to tight tolerances, ensuring clean installation and flawless alignment. Our support also extends to design detailing, substructure coordination, performance testing and engineering and PI Insurance with design and product guaranties.

Looking Ahead to the Facade Awards UK

As the Facade Awards UK approaches, we eagerly await the results alongside our industry peers. Regardless of the outcome, being shortlisted for the category of Best Use of a Rainscreen System Using Glass, Ceramics or Stone is already an outstanding recognition of the quality and design versatility that Argeton terracotta cladding offers.

The awards celebrate the very best in façade design and engineering, and we’re delighted to see terracotta cladding, particularly Argeton, gain the spotlight it deserves. This project exemplifies how thoughtful specification and expert delivery can elevate not only a building’s performance but also its presence in the cityscape.

Explore Argeton with Telling Rainscreens

If you’re considering terracotta for your next project, Telling Rainscreens is your trusted partner. With decades of experience and exclusive distribution of Argeton in the UK, we offer more than just a product, we provide a comprehensive façade solution tailored to your architectural ambitions.

From concept to completion, we’re here to help you realise the full potential of natural clay façades.

Ready to specify Argeton?

Contact our technical team to see how Argeton can transform your next development. The difference is Telling!