Client: Karris Developers
Architect: CZWG Architects LLP
Contractor: Cheesmur Building Contractors
Type of works: supply and installation of Marley's Cedral Weatherboard.

A 1960s office block on Brighton seafront has been transformed using fibre cement Cedral Weatherboard from Marley.

Moore House, a previously derelict five-storey concrete building, has now become the hub for a range of businesses and retail units, including Jamie Oliver’s restaurant, Jamie’s Italian.

Fibre cement Cedral Weatherboard from Marley was specified because its subtly textured surface created the visual appeal of timber.

However, unlike timber, fibre cement Cedral Weatherboard does not warp or shrink, making it an excellent long-term low maintenance solution.

This provided the designers with a cost effective solution to mask the unsightly original concrete structure, helping it sit comfortably alongside a nearby timber weatherboarded property.

The Cedral Weatherboard was selected in a Blue Grey colour to reflect the coastal location of the building.

The completed project recently won the Local Authority Building Control Southern Award for best commercial building valued over £1m.

Cedral Weatherboard was specified by the internationally recognised CZWG Architects LLP on behalf of Karris Developers and installed by Cheesmur Building Contractors.

Piers Gough partner at CZWG Architects said “Weatherboarding has great seaside connotations and works really well in the context of the informal townscape of the famous Lanes in Brighton, so that this relatively large modern building sits well next to the diminutive pub next door. Marley weatherboarding is just as flexible but more durable than traditional timber and comes in some good factory applied colours.”

Steve Hayman, Director at Cheesmur Building Contractors, added: “We have used Cedral Weatherboard from Marley before as it creates an attractive and low maintenance facade. It really has improved the appearance of the building and we plan to use it again as part of refurbishing the nearby medical centre.”

Cedral Weatherboard is available in a range of 22 factory applied solid colours and six woodstains. This is complemented with a bespoke colour service, allowing customers to choose from any factory-approved BS colour, subject to minimum order quantities.