15 breathtaking brick houses in Australia to inspire you

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04 May 2023

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7 min read

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When it comes to architecture, few materials are as classic and timeless as brick. Its earthy origins and aesthetic create an inviting atmosphere while its robust physical characteristics give brick houses that sense of significance. It's also surprisingly versatile when it comes to design and with some truly remarkable projects being realised throughout the country in recent years.

If you've been thinking about building a brick house and are looking for inspiration then a great place to start is by looking at the very best. From classic heritage homes to modern architectural masterpieces, we've rounded up 15 of the most stunning examples from around Australia that are sure to inspire.

1. Fellowship - CHT Architects

The contrast between the opulent pale and deep black bricks is the first thing that catches the eye with these luxury apartments at Fellowship in Kew. Beautifully adorned with cascading greenery it very much feels an organic part of its surroundings. The living experience for the residents is further enhanced by Sora, the interior design team responsible for the sophisticated colour scheme and material choices.

2. Toorak House - Cera Stribley

Toorak House by Cera Stribley is a wonderful collaboration between client and professionals resulted in this bold, large-scale home in Toorak, a southeast neighbourhood in Melbourne. The house employs a number of material options in its construction with brick anchoring the ground floor in support of the curvacious copper above it. Brick is again prominent throughout the interior which is lavishly furnished with designer pieces. Undeniably captivating and awe-inspiring.

3. Courtyard House - SN Architects

Crisp white bricks give this elegant and humble brick home a zen-like feel in a design that draws from historical Japanese architecture. Nature is felt right throughout as elements of the outdoors are incorporated within. From the Courtroom House’s open views into the sage green kitchen cabinets, it is an aesthetically clean and calming residence.

Related article: 9 Australian townhouses to get inspired by

4. Bellevue Hill House - TKD Architects

The timeless lustre that brick brings to the Bellevue Hill House is hard to miss, especially with the impressive brick chimney that towers into the sky. Flanked by a tennis court and a swimming pool, the architecture of the home has a lot to compete with but does so with aplomb. The house also features a particularly wide terrace, allowing for a great extension into the outdoor living space.

5. Brimar House - Michael Ong Design Office

Brimar house is a 600m² family home with a contemporary design that is nothing short of mesmerising. The juxtaposition of the light brick and the darkened timber is dynamic and bold, and the shapely contours that grace the home at every turn give gentle encouragement for the inhabitants to use each and every space.

Related article: A curated selection of some of Australia's finest architecturally designed homes

6. Constantia - MHNDU

The angular composition of Constantia gives an immediate visual point of interest and a refined look. The use of brick in conjunction with concrete in particular adds contrast, depth and dimension. The lower-level entertaining area opens to a neat outdoor space and yard with a dining area and a pool that one can easily imagine enjoying with friends and family.

7. Manhattan on Belmore - Concepts by Gavin Hepper

The use of Flemish bond recycled brick helped the architectural team achieve the industrial look of Manhattan on Belmore. These bricks also feature internally and are complemented nicely by Tasmanian oak ceilings and reclaimed timber. Modern styling and decor facilitate a contemporary lifestyle for the whole family.

8. Cascade House - Andever

The textural impact of brick can really be felt at Cascade House accentuated by the architectural depth in its design. The white brick contrasts with the surrounding greenery and garden brilliantly, highlighting an area of the property the homeowners are particularly passionate about. The presence of brick graces the interior as well through panelling and the clever manipulation of natural light.

Related article: Exploring Australia's diverse house styles

9. Cnr Virginia - Studio Prineas

As we've seen a few times already, the combination of brick cladding and dark timber works so well, instantly establishing the dynamic contemporary aesthetic of Cnr Virgina. The build here was created as an additional space that needed to be concealed from the street due to regulations of the area locale. The openness of this space is one of its big successes with seamless transitions from inside to out, incorporating the vistas of the surrounding Australian natives and landscape.

10. Brick House - State of Kin

The project's immense vision shines through as this brand-new home completely sells itself as a renovated heritage factory-turned-house, rightly named Brick House. The combination of new and old materials as well as modern and traditional techniques allows this project to skillfully select from the best of both worlds. It's an architectural work of art and an amazing habitat for its occupants.

Related article: Mastering the basics of bricks: a deep dive into sizes, types, and pricing

11. OP9 House - George Banks Architecture

OP9 House is a white brick-and-mortar home with locally sourced materials that takes pride of place in this newly established suburban neighbourhood. The airy and open nature of its design, decor choices and inclusion of hanging vines give the space strong coastal vibes. It's the sort of home where that makes every day feel like a relaxing Sunday afternoon.

12. Putney House - AJH+

Bespoke recycled brick is the foundation for this stylish home in Putney, just 300m from the Parramatta River in Sydney. The tactile power of Putney House is strong, with contrasting textures captured through a careful balance of materials, including off-form concrete and light cladding. This theme is carried through the interiors with a striking use of complementary materials and controlled natural lighting through openable skylights, louvre windows and calculated overhangs.

Related article: 10 of the best barn houses from across Australia

13. Bardolph Gardens - Breathe

Bardolph Gardens is a tremendous achievement in environmentally sustainable architecture and design. The glorious recycled brick facade is a grand celebration of this ethos, adding unique character and quality to the exterior. Large glass panels allow a wash of natural light to soak the living spaces, and the use of a solar PV array and heat pump system means the dwelling operates from a zero fossil fuel system.

14. K House - Renato D'Ettorre Architects

The rendered white bricks of K House are a mesmerising coastal masterpiece that shows the clean form that can be achieved with this versatile material. This continues within the home with minimalist touches that allow the extraordinary views and surroundings to be fully absorbed and appreciated. A winner of multiple architectural awards, it is a home that connects its occupants to the land, water and sky, creating a true sanctuary.

15. Spiegel Haus - Carter Williamson Architects

From strong European influences, the theatrical form and styling of Spiegel Haus in Sydney is a huge showcase of architectural and design expression. Iron-rich brickwork captures a unique exterior tone, featuring black steel frames and mosaic tiles. The upper-level mirrored void is dazzling and unique, while the curated selection of decor and furnishings tastefully conveys the homeowner's passions.

Related article: Designing for efficiency: A look at some of Australia's best homes that embody passive design principles

An incredible selection of the best brick homes in Australia

As you can see, some amazing brick houses in Australia show the potential of what can be achieved with a bit of skill and imagination. From meticulous refurbishments to ingenious uses of modern techniques and innovations, you can apply the same methods to your own building project or use them as inspiration to create something completely unique and personal to you.

This article was updated on 3rd December 2024

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