More than Bricks & Mortar

The traditional brick and mortar, a staple in construction, has undergone a transformative journey. Innovations in manufacturing have unlocked a myriad of colours, shapes and finishes which has led to a renaissance of this age-old material. Now with more options than ever before, new trends are emerging which focus on a stronger emphasis on the inherent artistic qualities of masonry construction.

Using White and Black as a neutral canvas

After years of seeing black rendered walls lining new streets, devoid of charm and with endless maintenance, neutral brick colours of blacks, whites, greys, and creams are returning as the creative base of a home.

Darker hues are reminiscent of the blue tone dry pressed bricks which stand out in many notable buildings across Australia. With contrasting light mortar and careful and creative lay patterns, these can form a crisp and confident exterior with references to the rich history.

Austral bricks La Paloma Azul

Lighter tones of white and cream are a gentle re-introduction to brickwork, and are returning as a preferred option when a soft and neutral textured finish is desired. Often used with forms such as curves, this monochromatic palette draws influence from Palm Beach mid century design.

Austral Bricks La Paloma Castellana

Create Charm with a Vintage Patina

A stronger emphasis on sustainability and environmental sensitivity has seen a shift in the aesthetic to the reuse and recycling of existing materials as desirable rather than avoidable. This change in the eye of the beholder has translated into new brick ranges being created which embrace this aesthetic, employing techniques to achieve a recycled look. From Bowral Bricks: “Distressed forms and blended colours provide a finish similar to recycled bricks, but with the guarantee of no contaminants, greater strength and clarity around embodied energy.”

Bowral Remastered Moss Vale

Experimentation with bold, solid colours has returned as a way to provide accent without it feeling ‘added on’ as an afterthought. Utilizing solid colour in this way allows bold colours to make a statement without feeling overwhelming.

PGH Bricks and Pavers Glazed brick range “offers a striking selection of accent colours, perfect for indoor or outdoor features walls, or for those seeking to add character and flair to their overall design style.”

PGH Bricks Glazed in Poppy, Orchid and Ficus

Embrace texture with slimline brick formats

For anyone looking to step outside the expected format of brick sizes can look to newer ranges of slimline, slender or linear bricks. Kept in a traditional colour palette, these can create a distinctive yet understated texture which resonates with clear design intention and elegance.

These can create a design moment in feature areas such as alfrescos, fireplace surrounds or entryways, where the detail of such a carefully selected material can be appreciated.

PGH Bricks Blanco Linear and Morada Rojo Linear

It has long been established that bricks are here to stay, but the evolution of new colours, textures, patterns and characteristics means that they can provide contemporary design aesthetic whilst achieving the stability and solidity that has always formed their appeal.

Eliza Patterson

Nominated Architect at Design Build