York Art Gallery

As part of the major redevelopment of York Art Gallery, over 300 bespoke double hexagon ceramic tiles were designed and produced for the building’s new façade. The tiles reference the distinctive local paving patterns known as “Stable Paviours” or “Rosemary Setts,” commonly found in York’s historic alleys and back streets, creating a subtle material connection between the gallery and its surrounding city fabric.

Led by Simpson & Brown in collaboration with Ushida Findlay Architects, the £8 million project introduced a new “Secret Gallery” in the roof space, a ceramic-clad rooftop extension, and a new garden entrance with balcony. Completed in 2015, the scheme carefully balances contemporary architectural expression with the building’s historic character, with the custom ceramic façade tiles forming a key material link between past and present.