Nestled within the heart of Birmingham's renowned Jewellery Quarter, the Nineteen Forty buildings stand as a testament to the city's rich industrial heritage. These Grade II Listed buildings have witnessed over two centuries of transformation, serving various purposes and undergoing significant changes. This blog post delves into the fascinating history, development, and significance of these structures.
The Origins: Early 19th Century
The Harry Smiths buildings, located at Nos. 17, 18, and 19 Hockley Hill, is one of two Regency Houses and were originally constructed in the early 19th century. These buildings likely served as residences above ground-floor shops. By the late 1800s, Nos. 18 and 19 had been absorbed into an ironmongery business known as Jackson, Edwards, and Bache, which later became Harry Smiths.
Nos. 20 and 21, known as the Gem Buildings, were purpose-built in 1913 for the diamond industry, specifically for the firm Ginder and Ginder, a key part of Nineteen Forty’s story.
1913: The Birth of the Gem Buildings
In 1913, significant changes were made to the site. The southern part, including three early 19th-century houses, was demolished to make way for the construction of the Gem Buildings. These buildings were designed by Colmore Row architects Wood & Kendrick and were purposed for diamond businesses. In the late 1920s, the building transitioned to multiple occupancy, becoming a hub for various manufacturers, including makers of cigarette cases, luxury leather goods, and varnish makers.
The World War
In 1940, the Gem Buildings and JC Ginder gained international attention. JC Ginder, who was the Chair of the Birmingham Jewellers Association Export Group, orchestrated the relocation of diamond businesses to Birmingham during World War II. Newspapers of the time chronicled a notable operation in which diamonds and machinery were covertly transported from Antwerp to Birmingham. Approximately 200 individuals from the Netherlands, Belgium, and other nearby nations established a new diamond industry in Birmingham, likely within the Gem Buildings, owned by JC Ginder at the time. The Daily Bulletin reported that the UK had become the global hub for diamond cutting and polishing, with increased sales contributing to the funding of government aircraft for the war effort. It was emphasized that "the more diamonds we sell to the United States, the more planes the government can buy."
Mid-20th Century Transformations
The mid-20th century brought further changes. In 1950, the Gem Buildings were sold to Harry Smiths. The 1960s saw the construction of the Hockley Flyover gyratory complex and the infill development of 2 Key Hill, which altered the rear of Nos. 18 and 19. The Washing Machine Distribution Company operated from the lower ground floor of the Gem Buildings during this period until their finance was eventually withdrawn. Whilst the Harry Smith building remained for the most part ironmongery in nos. 17-19, the Gem Buildings were multi-tenanted with a clothes business on the upper ground and then above subdivided for crafts and music studios - a varied occupancy period.
The 21st Century: Preservation and Future Plans
The ironmongery business of Harry Smiths continued to operate until 2020, after which the site became vacant. In 2022, planning permissions were granted for the conversion of the buildings. Harry Smiths will be transformed into six residential units on the upper floors and commercial space on the ground and lower ground floors. The Gem Buildings will be converted into 16 residential units, including 12 apartments and four duplex apartments. Merging historic charm with high-specification modern fixtures, this Grade II Listed building promises a unique living experience. Find out more about the development here.
Architectural Significance
Although the interiors of the buildings have undergone numerous changes, the exteriors remain largely as they were after the First World War. The Harry Smiths buildings, with their Regency-era facades, and the Gem Buildings, with their early 20th-century functionalist design, both hold medium significance. The Gem Buildings, in particular, could be considered highly significant as one of the most notable early 20th-century industrial structures in Birmingham. These distinctive exteriors are what secured Listed status for the buildings.
Challenges and Preservation Efforts
The planning conditions for the renovation include extensive structural recording, repair works, and an inventory of significant fixtures. While much of the original internal features have been altered, efforts are being made to preserve what remains. Externally, repairs and restitutions are needed, but the overall architectural integrity of the buildings will be maintained.
Conclusion
The Nineteen Forty buildings are not just structures of brick and mortar; they are a piece of Birmingham's industrial history. As they undergo transformation for modern use, preserving their historical essence remains a priority. These buildings continue to tell the story of a bygone era, reflecting the city's evolution and resilience.
For more detailed information on the planning and preservation efforts, please refer to the official documents and listings.
For further reading and visuals, visit the PCPT Architects website.
