Originally constructed in 1971 as part of a post-war redevelopment scheme, the Big Peg – formerly known as the Hockley Centre – stands as a prominent landmark in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter. The original council-led plans, developed in the 1960s, aimed to modernise the area with large-scale facilities including an eight-storey flatted factory, new workshops, an Assay Office, and a School of Jewellery. However, the scheme met with strong local opposition, as it displaced many of the small, specialist tradespeople who were vital to the Quarter’s heritage and economy.

Despite its controversial beginnings, the Big Peg became a recognisable part of the local skyline. Over the decades, however, the building required modernisation to meet contemporary performance standards and design expectations.

As part of its recent refurbishment and rebranding as JQ Modern, Aluprof UK supplied high-performance aluminium windows to upgrade the building’s façade. Our solutions were chosen to improve thermal efficiency, enhance durability, and provide a sleek, modern aesthetic while respecting the structure’s place in the historic urban fabric. 

Using MB-Slimline and bespoke cladding panels, we were able to transform the building’s aesthetics with a 47 mm aluminium profile throughout and invisible, structurally bonded vents. The original building had U-values of approximately 5.9, with single-glazed steel windows, and cladding comprising a timber softwood grid with plastic panels — a real fire hazard.

Now, with U-values of 1.3 for both frame and glass, solar control glazing, and bespoke aluminium cladding panels, the old building has been brought back to life.

This refurbishment is a key example of how sensitive, high-quality system upgrades can breathe new life into existing buildings – ensuring they remain functional, sustainable, and visually relevant for decades to come.