HAND-CAST IN SOLID CONCRETE WITH CARE BY SPACEPLAY
Renold Building – Miniature Concrete Model
Renold Building – Miniature Concrete Model
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Model 042_Renold Building – Miniature Concrete Model
Hand-cast in fine concrete. Shaped by memory.
Some buildings embody the confidence of a new era of education. The Renold Building, completed in 1962 on the UMIST campus in Manchester, was one of the first teaching blocks in the UK designed without traditional lecture theatres. Instead, it offered flexible teaching spaces, bold concrete framing, and a modernist profile that made it both functional and iconic. It remains a landmark in the history of higher education design.
This model focuses on its clarity of form. The sharp verticals, recessed windows, and sense of rhythm had to feel balanced at a smaller scale. I worked carefully to preserve the character of its outline and the strength of its architectural presence.
A small cast of one of Manchester’s academic icons.
Features
• Solid cast concrete, individually hand-poured
• 6cm high, 6.5cm wide, 5.5cm deep (approx)
• Laser-etched cork base with building name
• Comes gift-boxed for the perfect concrete gift
• Designed, modelled, and finished in the UK
Made for those who studied there, taught there, or admired its confident modernist style.
This model is a keepsake of a building that represented new ideas about learning and left a lasting mark on Manchester’s cityscape.
15% off when you order two or more models
EU customers: please order via my Etsy shop due to customs regulations
Building Information
Location: Former UMIST campus, Manchester, UK
Architect: W. Arthur Gibbon (Cruickshank & Seward)
Completed: 1962
Status: Grade II listed, part of the University of Manchester estate
Brief Overview:
The Renold Building was an early and innovative teaching block for UMIST, designed around the concept of flexible learning rather than traditional lecture halls. Its exposed concrete structure, crisp geometry, and functional clarity made it one of the most significant educational buildings of its era. Today it remains a key part of Manchester’s post-war architectural legacy.
Please note:
ALL EU ORDERS processed through our Etsy Store HERE
My concrete sculptures are individually hand cast in solid concrete. This means that each piece will have distinctive markings and minor blemishes due to air bubbles in the concrete. This is a natural part of the material and will mean that no two pieces are ever exactly the same.
Shipping:
I aim to make and ship your artwork within 30 days. If you require your order by a specific date before this please let me know.
Express shipping options at checkout for additional costs
Materials
Materials
My concete models are all made using a fine grain quickset cement with a polymer additive. This gives a good balance between strength and detail casting. However concrete is a brittle material so the models are delicate and can break with impact.
Shipping & Returns
Shipping & Returns
Free standard shipping on all UK orders.
We aim to ship within 30 days but priority shipping can be purchased if you require faster delivery.
You can cancel or return you order at any time. Once I receive the product back undamaged you will receive a full refund (excluding postage).
I do not refund damaged parcels. If your order arrives damaged please contact me immediately to arrange for a replacement.
Care Instructions
Care Instructions
Concrete is a brittle material so these models are delicate objects. They can be chipped or cracked easily and need to be protected from knocks or falls.
My concrete mix is also not waterproof so you should protected your model from damp and moisture.
Extreme changes in temperature will cause expansion and contraction inside the concrete model potentially leading to cracks forming. Keep your model out of direct sunlight and away from heating systems.
