Crafting the Next Chapter: Westley Richards & Rigby & Rigby

At Rigby & Rigby, we are always drawn to projects that celebrate craftsmanship, heritage and the pursuit of excellence. Few companies embody those values more completely than Westley Richards.

Established in 1812 and proudly rooted in Birmingham's historic Gun Quarter, Westley Richards has earned a global reputation for producing some of the finest bespoke sporting guns and rifles in the world. For more than two centuries, the company has combined traditional craftsmanship with innovation, creating pieces that are as admired for their engineering as they are for their artistry.

We are therefore delighted to have been appointed to design a new extension to the company's historic headquarters, helping to support the next chapter in the evolution of this remarkable British brand.

As Westley Richards continues to grow, the need has arisen to expand its facilities while remaining true to the character and heritage of the existing site. Our ambition from the outset has been to create a building that feels intrinsically connected to its surroundings; an extension that respects the past while confidently looking to the future.

The proposed design takes inspiration from the precision, quality and attention to detail that define Westley Richards itself. Connected to the existing headquarters by a glazed link, the new building has been carefully composed to complement the historic warehouse while establishing its own architectural identity.

A series of vertical charred timber elements create a gradual transition from solid to transparent, moving from robust timber cladding through screened glazing to fully glazed façades. This layered approach reflects the relationship between tradition and innovation that sits at the heart of the Westley Richards story, while allowing natural light to flood the new accommodation.

Internally, the extension has been designed to support the specialist requirements of the business, creating flexible spaces that will help sustain and nurture the exceptional skills that have defined the company for generations.

For our team, this project is about far more than creating additional floorspace. It is an opportunity to contribute to the future of one of Birmingham's most celebrated manufacturers and to play a small part in preserving the city's extraordinary legacy of making, engineering and craftsmanship.

The design proposals are now progressing towards the planning stage, with the project team working closely to refine and develop the scheme ahead of submission. We are incredibly excited about the journey ahead and look forward to sharing further updates as the project develops. This is a truly special collaboration, and we cannot wait to reveal more as we help shape the next chapter of the Westley Richards story.

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