Glazed brick and tile were a hallmark of early‑20th‑century construction, prized for their durability, rich colour and the way they brightened both interiors and street frontages.

Their hard, impervious surface made them ideal for busy urban environments, resisting soot, staining and weathering far better than standard brick. But as architectural tastes shifted through the mid‑century, the glossy finish fell out of favour.

Modernist trends preferred flat, muted surfaces, and many owners chose to cover glazed brick with plaster, render or paint rather than repair isolated defects. In some cases, the coverings were simply a quick way to hide dirt or damage, and over time the original craftsmanship was forgotten.

Today, as appreciation for historic materials grows, we’re uncovering these surfaces again and recognising the quality and character they bring to buildings like this 1906 example.

It’s a reminder of how important it is to understand and preserve original materials rather than conceal them.