Norwich Castle

Norwich Castle

THE CHALLENGE

Norwich Castle required a refined bronze finish to key architectural elements within a prominent public-facing area, including a feature staircase, vertical cladding panels, handrails and balustrades. The intent was to introduce a rich, heritage-inspired metallic tone that complemented the historic setting while delivering a crisp, contemporary execution.

Working within a historic environment presented several challenges. The substrates varied across the staircase and wall constructions, tolerances were tight, and all finishes needed to be durable enough to withstand high visitor footfall. Achieving a consistent bronze appearance across multiple components, each fabricated differently and installed at different stages, was critical to maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. Additionally, installation needed to be carefully managed to minimise disruption within the sensitive heritage environment.

Balancing visual warmth, long-term durability, and practical installation requirements called for a specialist finishing solution that could perform technically while respecting the architectural significance of the building.

THE SOLUTION

Bradleys provided a bespoke Bronze finish from their Crafted Patina Range called Aged Bronze Classic II across the staircase elements and adjoining cladding panels, handrails and balustrades. This solution delivered the depth and character of aged bronze while offering the durability and adaptability of a lightweight metal finish system.

By working closely with the project team, Bradleys ensured tonal consistency across all components, despite differences in fabrication and geometry. Panels and balustrade sections were pre-finished under controlled conditions to guarantee quality and colour matching before arriving on site, reducing installation time and risk.

The Crafted Patina system allowed for precise detailing around junctions, edges and fixings, ensuring a clean, uninterrupted appearance throughout the staircase and surrounding surfaces. The finished result enhanced the historic interior with a sophisticated bronze aesthetic, combining heritage character with modern performance and longevity suited to a high-traffic public landmark like Norwich Castle.

THE DETAIL

Norwich Castle has undergone a major £27m redevelopment to restore its 12th‑century Norman Keep, reinstating medieval floor levels, adding new galleries, and improving accessibility, including step‑free access from basement to battlements for the first time.
Designed by Feilden+Mawson, the project blends sensitive conservation with modern interventions such as a new glazed bridge and upgraded visitor facilities, enhancing circulation and the overall visitor experience.

TESTIMONIAL

” The Bradleys’ finishes came out great, we were very pleased.”

Daniel Towers , Architect, Feilden+Mawson