History
A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence
1919
Webb Gray Architects, founded in the early 1920s by George Frederick 'Fritz' Webb and David Reginald Gray, initially focused on ecclesiastical and residential architecture. The early years of the firm saw the design of numerous churches and houses, which showcased their craftsmanship and attention to detail. They were known for blending traditional design principles with emerging architectural trends of the time.
Through their dedication to high-quality design, Webb Gray Architects became a respected name in their field, leaving a lasting influence on the architectural landscape.
Through their dedication to high-quality design, Webb Gray Architects became a respected name in their field, leaving a lasting influence on the architectural landscape.
1926
Webb Gray's early work was predominantly concentrated in the Black Country area of England, where they became well-known for designing a wide range of churches. This focus on ecclesiastical architecture allowed them to explore various architectural styles and techniques, which were particularly evident in their work on places of worship.
One notable example of Webb Gray's church designs is the Providence Methodist Chapel in Cradley. This building, which still stands today, is a testament to the firm's ability to create timeless architecture. The chapel features intricate detailing and a solid, enduring design, ensuring its longevity as a community landmark.
One notable example of Webb Gray's church designs is the Providence Methodist Chapel in Cradley. This building, which still stands today, is a testament to the firm's ability to create timeless architecture. The chapel features intricate detailing and a solid, enduring design, ensuring its longevity as a community landmark.
1927
Not only did Webb Gray work on buildings, but they also designed and contributed to a variety of other significant structures, one of the most notable being the Pensnett War Memorial. This war memorial stands as a powerful symbol of the firm’s versatility and commitment to creating meaningful public landmarks.
Located in the heart of the Black Country, the Pensnett War Memorial was designed to honor those who lost their lives during World War I and later conflicts.
Located in the heart of the Black Country, the Pensnett War Memorial was designed to honor those who lost their lives during World War I and later conflicts.
1930
During the 1930s, Webb Gray expanded their portfolio beyond churches, taking on a diverse range of projects that included schools, cinemas, and other public buildings. This period marked a significant evolution in the firm’s work, as they began to diversify into more varied architectural sectors, all while maintaining their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
One of their most notable projects from this era was the Stourbridge Grammar School. Designed by Webb Gray, the school embodied the firm’s expertise in creating educational facilities that were not only practical but also inspiring for students.
One of their most notable projects from this era was the Stourbridge Grammar School. Designed by Webb Gray, the school embodied the firm’s expertise in creating educational facilities that were not only practical but also inspiring for students.
1935
One of the early commercial buildings designed by Webb Gray was the CO-OP Butchery Factory in Dudley. This project marked a significant departure from their earlier focus on ecclesiastical and residential architecture, as the firm ventured into industrial design. The Butchery Factory was a large-scale commercial development that played an important role in the local economy, particularly in the food production sector.
Webb Gray’s design for the factory reflected the practical needs of an industrial building while incorporating elements of the architectural style of the time. The structure was designed with efficiency in mind, facilitating the factory's operations, while also ensuring a strong and lasting build.
This year, sadly, marked the passing of David Gray, who tragically died in an accident. David's vision, leadership, and dedication played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of Webb Gray.
Webb Gray’s design for the factory reflected the practical needs of an industrial building while incorporating elements of the architectural style of the time. The structure was designed with efficiency in mind, facilitating the factory's operations, while also ensuring a strong and lasting build.
This year, sadly, marked the passing of David Gray, who tragically died in an accident. David's vision, leadership, and dedication played a pivotal role in shaping the foundation of Webb Gray.
1939
In 1939, Webb Gray designed two of the most recognizable and historically significant buildings in Dudley: the Dudley Co-op Store and the Dudley Police Station. Both of these projects showcased the firm’s growing influence and their ability to design functional, yet aesthetically significant, public buildings that would serve the community for generations.
1950
After World War II, Webb Gray Architects continued to build upon their established reputation by designing a wide range of projects across various sectors, including churches, cinemas, schools, and much needed residential/social developments. The post-war period brought about significant social and economic changes, and Webb Gray responded to these shifts by designing buildings that reflected the needs and aspirations of the community during this time.
Webb Gray's post-war work helped shape the architectural landscape of the Black Country and beyond. Their versatility in working across various sectors allowed them to remain relevant and influential during a time of rapid change in both society and architecture.
Webb Gray's post-war work helped shape the architectural landscape of the Black Country and beyond. Their versatility in working across various sectors allowed them to remain relevant and influential during a time of rapid change in both society and architecture.
1955
One of the final schools designed by Webb Gray was Sledmere School in Dudley, which was an important addition to the firm’s legacy of educational architecture. Located in a residential area, Sledmere School reflected the post-war emphasis on creating functional, modern educational facilities that could accommodate the growing number of students and evolving educational standards of the time.
Sledmere School stands as one of the final examples of Webb Gray's educational architecture. It encapsulates the firm's ability to design buildings that were both functional and thoughtful, responding to the changing needs of society.
Sledmere School stands as one of the final examples of Webb Gray's educational architecture. It encapsulates the firm's ability to design buildings that were both functional and thoughtful, responding to the changing needs of society.
1962
In the early 1960s, Webb Gray's focus on church architecture began to diminish as the demand for new ecclesiastical buildings decreased. During this period, the firm started to explore other types of projects, such as commercial, educational, and residential developments. However, one of the last churches they are known to have designed was the Providence Methodist Chapel in Cradley, which stands as a significant example of their late-period church work.
1965
During the mid-1960s, Webb Gray underwent a significant transition, marking the end of an era. George Frederick 'Fritz' Webb, one of the founding partners, retired from the practice, bringing to a close a period of remarkable architectural work that spanned several decades. This was especially poignant as David Reginald Gray, the other original partner, had tragically passed away many years earlier in a fatal accident, leaving a lasting impact on the firm and the community it served.
In light of these changes, Webb Gray was restructured around a partnership consisting of Tony Winwood, Tony Hodder, and Tom Bray, who took on the responsibility of continuing the firm’s long-standing legacy. This shift marked the dawn of a new era for the practice, with fresh leadership while maintaining the firm’s commitment to quality design, functionality, and community-focused architecture.
In light of these changes, Webb Gray was restructured around a partnership consisting of Tony Winwood, Tony Hodder, and Tom Bray, who took on the responsibility of continuing the firm’s long-standing legacy. This shift marked the dawn of a new era for the practice, with fresh leadership while maintaining the firm’s commitment to quality design, functionality, and community-focused architecture.
1966
As Webb Gray moved away from designing churches, schools, and other traditional buildings, they faced the challenge of adapting to the changing architectural landscape of the post-war era. With the rise of urbanization and a growing population, the demand for high-rise housing became a central issue, particularly as towns like Dudley and Brierley Hill saw rapid growth. This shift in architectural focus saw Webb Gray diversifying once again, adapting to the emerging trends of the time, including high-rise residential developments.
1971
In the early 1970s, Tom Bray retired from Webb Gray, marking another significant change in the firm's leadership. His retirement opened the door for new talent to join the firm, and this period saw the arrival of two key figures who would go on to play pivotal roles in the future of Webb Gray & Partners.
Nick Cox and Tony Shenton joined the firm, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to Webb Gray. These two individuals would become not only valuable members of the team but also significant contributors to the firm’s continued success and growth in the decades that followed.
Nick Cox and Tony Shenton joined the firm, bringing fresh perspectives and energy to Webb Gray. These two individuals would become not only valuable members of the team but also significant contributors to the firm’s continued success and growth in the decades that followed.
1973
In 1973, Webb Gray began an important and long-lasting relationship with J Sainsbury, one of the leading supermarket chains in the UK. This partnership would span over a decade, with the firm delivering multiple projects for Sainsbury’s, further solidifying their reputation as a trusted architectural practice. The first project that marked this collaboration was the design of a Sainsbury’s store in Beeston, Nottingham.
The Beeston store in Nottingham was the first of many successful projects for Sainsbury's, and the firm’s expertise in retail design helped the supermarket chain expand its footprint across the UK. This collaboration not only solidified Webb Gray's reputation in the retail sector but also helped the firm diversify and grow, cementing Sainsbury’s as one of their most important and long-term clients.
The Beeston store in Nottingham was the first of many successful projects for Sainsbury's, and the firm’s expertise in retail design helped the supermarket chain expand its footprint across the UK. This collaboration not only solidified Webb Gray's reputation in the retail sector but also helped the firm diversify and grow, cementing Sainsbury’s as one of their most important and long-term clients.
1978
As Webb Gray continued their work with Sainsbury's, they also undertook a variety of other significant architectural projects, further expanding their expertise across different sectors. One such long-term project that spanned many years was the design and development of buildings for Oldswinford Hospital School, a prominent educational institution.
The series of buildings designed by Webb Gray for Oldswinford Hospital School stands as one of the firm’s most enduring and significant projects. Spanning several years, this collaboration not only enhanced the school’s infrastructure but also contributed to its growth and success.
The series of buildings designed by Webb Gray for Oldswinford Hospital School stands as one of the firm’s most enduring and significant projects. Spanning several years, this collaboration not only enhanced the school’s infrastructure but also contributed to its growth and success.
1983
Throughtout the 1980s, the relationship between Webb Gray and J Sainsbury experienced a significant expansion. As the supermarket giant sought to grow its presence across the UK, Webb Gray was at the forefront of this expansion, designing not just new stores but also handling numerous extensions and refurbishments of existing branches. This period marked a tremendous phase in the firm’s retail architecture portfolio, with stores popping up across the country and Webb Gray playing a key role in shaping Sainsbury’s retail environment.
1987
One of the standout Sainsbury’s projects in the 1980s was the Sainsbury’s store at Merry Hill, a significant development that became a key feature of the Merry Hill Centre in the West Midlands. This project began in 1987 and was completed in 1989, marking a milestone in both Webb Gray & Partners' work with Sainsbury’s and the broader development of the Merry Hill shopping complex
1992
The 1990s marked a continued period of growth and prominence for Webb Gray, particularly in their collaboration with Sainsbury’s. The firm's involvement in designing and developing a series of Sainsbury’s supermarkets across the country helped establish them as leaders in supermarket design during this transformative decade. As the supermarket sector evolved, Webb Gray played a key role in shaping the look and feel of the modern supermarket environment, designing stores that were not only functional but also customer-friendly and in tune with the changing needs of the retail sector.
1997
The year 1997 marked a significant turning point for Webb Gray, as it entered a new phase of growth and evolution. After decades of successful collaboration and architectural design under the leadership of Tony Winwood and Tony Hodder, both partners decided to retire, and their retirement paved the way for a new generation of leadership at the practice. This shift marked the beginning of yet another important era for the firm.
In 1997, Nick Cox a long-standing member of the firm along with David Colough, took over as Directors as Directors of Webb Gray. Both Cox and Colclough had been with the firm for many years, having contributed to various key projects during their tenure. Their elevation to leadership roles was a natural progression, as they had gained significant experience and insight into the firm’s operations, philosophy, and client relationships.
In 1997, Nick Cox a long-standing member of the firm along with David Colough, took over as Directors as Directors of Webb Gray. Both Cox and Colclough had been with the firm for many years, having contributed to various key projects during their tenure. Their elevation to leadership roles was a natural progression, as they had gained significant experience and insight into the firm’s operations, philosophy, and client relationships.
1998
As Webb Gray entered this new era, they not only continued to serve Sainsbury’s, but they also forged new partnerships with influential developers like Coltham and Stoford. This combination of steady long-term relationships and fresh new ventures allowed the firm to grow, diversify, and thrive.
1999
In the late 1990s, Webb Gray welcomed a new partner, David Delaney Hall, who would go on to play a pivotal role in the firm’s growth and development. With a wealth of experience gained from years in the industry, David's expertise and vision were key in shaping the firm’s future direction. His approach to business development, client relationships, and strategic growth enabled Webb Gray to not only solidify its position in the market but to expand its services and capabilities. Under David's leadership, Webb Gray & Partners adapted to the changing business landscape, embracing new technologies, methods, and practices that ensured the firm remained at the forefront of its field.
2000
At the turn of the millennium, Webb Gray embarked on their most ambitious project to date—Global Switch, a groundbreaking £65 million data center located in London’s Canary Wharf. This monumental project marked a significant milestone in the firm's history, showcasing its ability to handle large-scale, complex developments in a highly competitive sector.
The Global Switch Data Centre, one of the largest of its kind in Europe at the time, required a unique blend of technical expertise, cutting-edge design, and meticulous project management. Webb Gray’s team worked closely with engineers, architects, and contractors to deliver a state-of-the-art facility capable of meeting the growing demands of global connectivity and data storage. The project highlighted the firm’s capacity to tackle intricate design and construction challenges, with a focus on energy efficiency, scalability, and security.
The Global Switch Data Centre, one of the largest of its kind in Europe at the time, required a unique blend of technical expertise, cutting-edge design, and meticulous project management. Webb Gray’s team worked closely with engineers, architects, and contractors to deliver a state-of-the-art facility capable of meeting the growing demands of global connectivity and data storage. The project highlighted the firm’s capacity to tackle intricate design and construction challenges, with a focus on energy efficiency, scalability, and security.
2005
Since its establishment in 1925, Webb Gray had operated out of Tixall House, located in the heart of Dudley. The firm had built a solid reputation and a strong foundation over the years, but in 2005, a pivotal decision was made to move the company to a more dynamic and rapidly expanding area—the city centre of Birmingham. This move was not just a relocation, but a strategic step towards positioning Webb Gray at the forefront of the region’s growing business hub.
With a deep commitment to preserving architectural heritage while embracing modern development, Webb Gray took on the ambitious challenge of restoring and updating the Banking Hall on Bennetts Hill. This historic building, which had served as the first bank in Birmingham, was a Grade II listed structure, rich in character and significance. The restoration project required a delicate balance of maintaining the building’s historic charm while introducing modern amenities and design elements to meet the needs of a contemporary office environment.
With a deep commitment to preserving architectural heritage while embracing modern development, Webb Gray took on the ambitious challenge of restoring and updating the Banking Hall on Bennetts Hill. This historic building, which had served as the first bank in Birmingham, was a Grade II listed structure, rich in character and significance. The restoration project required a delicate balance of maintaining the building’s historic charm while introducing modern amenities and design elements to meet the needs of a contemporary office environment.
2010
The Severn Trent Centre became one of Webb Gray landmark buildings of the following decade, cementing the firm’s reputation for excellence in design and sustainability. This award-winning development, located in the heart of the region, was a standout achievement for the firm and a prime example of their ability to deliver innovative, large-scale projects.
Spanning an impressive 215,000 square feet, the Severn Trent Centre served as the new operational headquarters for Severn Trent Water, a leading utility provider. The building was designed to house a diverse range of functions and staff, while also prioritizing functionality, efficiency, and employee well-being. Its design seamlessly integrated modern office space with state-of-the-art facilities, creating an environment that fostered collaboration and productivity.
Spanning an impressive 215,000 square feet, the Severn Trent Centre served as the new operational headquarters for Severn Trent Water, a leading utility provider. The building was designed to house a diverse range of functions and staff, while also prioritizing functionality, efficiency, and employee well-being. Its design seamlessly integrated modern office space with state-of-the-art facilities, creating an environment that fostered collaboration and productivity.
2015
2015 marked a significant turning point for Webb Gray with the departure of David Colclough, a key figure in the firm’s history. This transition signaled the beginning of a new chapter for Webb Gray, as the firm continued to evolve and adapt to the changing business landscape. Under the continued guidance of David Delaney Hall, the firm remained focused on innovation and excellence, positioning itself for even greater success in the years to come.
One of the most notable developments during this period was the firm's relocation to Colmore Row, one of the most prestigious and prominent areas in Birmingham. This move to the heart of the city’s business district reflected Webb Gray's growing influence and ambitions within the architectural and development sectors. The decision to settle in such a high-profile location symbolized the firm's confidence and commitment to its long-term growth.
One of the most notable developments during this period was the firm's relocation to Colmore Row, one of the most prestigious and prominent areas in Birmingham. This move to the heart of the city’s business district reflected Webb Gray's growing influence and ambitions within the architectural and development sectors. The decision to settle in such a high-profile location symbolized the firm's confidence and commitment to its long-term growth.
2018
The end of the decade marked a defining moment for Webb Gray, as the firm designed and delivered what would become its most prestigious building to date—the IM HQ Campus. This landmark £30 million development was created to serve as the new headquarters for IM Group, a leading international company with a diverse range of interests. The IM HQ Campus was not just another office building—it represented the pinnacle of modern architecture and design, setting a new standard for corporate headquarters in the region.
This year also saw the retirement of Tony Shenton, the longest-serving member of the Webb Gray staff, who retired after an outstanding 47 years of dedicated service. Tony's contributions have played a pivotal role in the company's growth and success over the years.
This year also saw the retirement of Tony Shenton, the longest-serving member of the Webb Gray staff, who retired after an outstanding 47 years of dedicated service. Tony's contributions have played a pivotal role in the company's growth and success over the years.
2020
The COVID-19 pandemic presented an unprecedented challenge not just for Webb Gray, but for the entire architecture, construction, and design industry. As the world grappled with lockdowns, restrictions, and the need for social distancing, Webb Gray had to quickly adapt to new working conditions. In response to the rapidly evolving situation, the firm made a swift transition to remote working, utilizing new technologies to ensure business continuity and maintain the high standards of service they were known for.
Despite the global disruption, Webb Gray successfully delivered one of their most notable projects during the pandemic: the THG Campus at Manchester Airport. This expansive development was a major undertaking, comprising 100,000 square feet of office space, a 250,000 square foot studio, and a 300-space multi-storey car park (MSCP).
Despite the global disruption, Webb Gray successfully delivered one of their most notable projects during the pandemic: the THG Campus at Manchester Airport. This expansive development was a major undertaking, comprising 100,000 square feet of office space, a 250,000 square foot studio, and a 300-space multi-storey car park (MSCP).
2025
As 2025 dawns, another exciting chapter begins for Webb Gray & Partners. The firm has embraced a new era, marked by a fresh update to its brand and identity. The updated color palette symbolizes the evolution of Webb Gray—reflecting both modernity and sophistication while staying true to the core values that have defined the firm since its inception. This rebranding is more than just a visual change; it represents the firm’s renewed focus on innovation, quality, and its commitment to remaining at the forefront of the industry.
Impressive Past, Exciting Future
The evolution of Webb Gray from its early days in the 1920s through to the late 20th century illustrates as a practice we have consistently adapted and grew to meet the changing demands of architecture. From our roots in designing churches and houses, to becoming a significant player in retail, commercial, and industrial architecture, highlights our ability to diversify and evolve in response to shifts in societal, technological, and economic trends. As we move forward, Webb Gray remains committed to growth and innovation with an enduring focus on sustainability, design excellence, and client satisfaction, with many of our current staff having served over 10 years, the core beliefs and values that Webb Gray was founded on in 1925 continue to serve as the guiding principles of our practice. These enduring values have not only shaped our rich history but also position us to face any challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
