The architectural revival of artisan bricks

Globally sought after

This commitment to craftsmanship has garnered attention not only locally but internationally as well. Exporting to the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, Krause Bricks is making waves in global architectural circles. But what is it about our Australian-made bricks that appeal to such a diverse audience? According to Krause, it's the types of bricks we offer in Australia: our unique brick textures, natural clay composition, and the ability to create one-of-a-kind designs.

“Krause’s style of brick differs from mass-produced bricks, with no two bricks the same. The interesting textures from hand-stacking and the natural clay palette appeal to architects and builders globally,” says Krause.

Architects and specifiers are finding new and creative ways to incorporate bricks into their designs, from curved bricks to innovative applications. Krause Bricks prides itself on staying ahead of these trends, offering diverse brick styles to create any architectural vision.

“We are seeing a rise in ‘hit and miss’ walls resembling traditional breezeway blocks, brick tiles and even kitchen splashbacks,” says Krause.

Waterloo Street, Sydney

Projects like the Waterloo Street showcase the timeless beauty of standard-sized bricks, alongside linear bricks, proving that even the most conventional materials can be used to create award-winning architectural masterpieces.

Winner of WAF’s World Interior of the Year 2023 award, Waterloo Street by Sydney-based architectural firm SJB Architects features an unconventional façade emphasised by a combination of semi-circular, rectangular, and porthole openings alongside a mix of reclaimed materials and broken bricks once destined for the scrap yard. 

Standing on a petite 30-square-metre (323-square-foot) plot, the design considers the surrounding environment, featuring sandstone-like brickwork to blend with its bordering buildings. The building has a rich history, having previously served as a butcher, grocer, hatter and restaurant. SJB's Director, Adam Haddow, explains that they intended to create a mixed-use space incorporating a home, self-contained flat and shopfront.

The Alba, NSW

One trend noted by Krause is a resurgence in specifiers using standard-sized bricks, a nod to traditional design. Inspired by the traditional beach house framework, architect and designer Studioplusthree added bespoke elements for a unique finish on their recent Alba project. Effortlessly capturing the essence of mid-century-meets-coastal-chic and elevating it further through considered, refined details make this a warm and inviting seaside home.

Studioplusthree worked directly with the team at Krause Bricks to create a custom-made brick specifically for the Alba build. The masonry details helped seamlessly integrate the home's features, enhancing the overall flow by adding curved interest and unifying the indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Sustainable practices

Krause Bricks offsets all carbon emissions associated with their local brick production, ensuring each brick is beautiful and environmentally responsible. This commitment to sustainability has not gone unnoticed, with an increasing number of architects and builders prioritising environmentally responsible materials in their projects.

“Krause Bricks is the first Australian brick manufacturer to offer full carbon neutrality on every order across our full range of products,” says Krause. “To offset the emissions produced by our production and operations, we partnered with Greenfleet.” 

Greenfleet is a not-for-profit environmental organisation that has planted 10 million trees in over 500 forests across Australia and New Zealand since 1997. These forests will capture more than 4 million tonnes of CO2-e over their lifetime while providing critical habitat for native species. 

“Greenfleet also ensures that their forests are legally protected for up to 100 years so that they can grow to their full potential and have a long-term, positive impact on our climate and planet,” Krause adds.

Bricks stand as a symbol of permanence and quality, and as Krause aptly puts it, "A brick can be a masterpiece within an architectural masterpiece." And with companies like Krause Bricks leading the sustainability and innovative charge, it's clear that the future of architecture is built on a solid foundation – one Australian-made brick at a time.

For assistance with your next project, reach out to Krause Bricks on ArchiPro today.