Argent Centre, Birmingham

The Argent Centre, located on the corner of Frederick Street and Legge Lane in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, is a significant Grade II* listed building with a rich heritage. Originally constructed in 1863 and designed by J. G. Bland for W. E. Wiley, a prominent gold pen manufacturer, the building was initially named Albert Works.

Architecturally, the Argent Centre is notable for its unique structure. It comprises long, narrow, multi-story workshops, each only 16 feet (5 meters) wide, arranged around a central courtyard. This layout was strategic for the era, allowing natural light to illuminate workbenches from two sides. The building's construction used hollow bricks tied with wrought iron, making it fireproof and obviating the need for costly insurance. Its facade features multicolored brickwork with a design that echoes the Renaissance Florentine style.

An interesting feature of the building was its utilization of recycled steam from the works' engines to heat the dry air for a Victorian Turkish bath located at the northern end. This facility not only offered baths but also provided spaces for leisure activities like chess, fencing, and billiards. Although originally topped with pyramidal roofs on each corner tower-removed by the mid-20th century-these were restored in 2020.

Throughout the 20th century, the Argent Centre served as the headquarters for companies like Griffin & George and Gallenkamp, both suppliers of scientific and laboratory equipment. It transitioned to office use in 1993 after these companies moved to London.

Today, the Argent Centre continues to serve as a hub for various businesses and is the site of the Pen Museum, the United Kingdom's only museum dedicated to the history of pen-making. This museum highlights Birmingham's pivotal role in the global pen trade, attracting visitors interested in the city's industrial heritage.