Using Architectural Bricks in Commercial Building

Using brick as a design component in commercial architecture has vast potential for elevating a building and adding a distinctive form to a functional space. In the hands of skilled architects and specifiers, an otherwise commonplace building can be transformed into a work of art through innovative design and thoughtfully selected materials.

As part of a broader shift in how we think of commercial building design, distinctive architectural bricks are becoming an increasingly popular choice for commercial architects. The colour and textural varieties of brick open up countless options for building designers - from creating shadow lines with sharp edges, patterned walls, interesting shapes or a banded row of textured bricks through a smooth wall - there are endless ways that bricks can be used to amplify building design.

To further illustrate, here are some of our favourite commercial projects where bricks are a focal design point:

Phoenix Central Park - Sydney, built with custom-made Krause Bricks in Phoenix Grey.

Phoenix Central Park building is an 1,185 sqm urban monolith of contemporary architecture with an impressive exterior of elegant brickwork. This collaborative project by John Wardle Architects (gallery) and Durbach Block Jaggers (performance space) is an impeccable example of innovative architecture through which the bricks are both distinctive yet crucial to the overall appearance of the building.

The minimalistic qualities of the thin, grey bricks allow the design to speak for itself. Cool hues and flat tones wash the entire building creating a striking contrast against a blue sky. The tonal qualities and smooth textural finish of the custom-made Krause Bricks highlight the building's many creative design features.

It’s no wonder the building has multiple architectural awards, including the winner of ‘Cultural Building of the Year’, at the World Architecture Festival in 2021. 

Fintona Girls School, Beyond Learning Centre - Melbourne, built with a custom blend of Krause Bricks in Grampian Blues.

The two-level Fintona Girls School ‘Beyond Science’ Centre perfectly demonstrates how architectural bricks can be used to seamlessly integrate a building into the surrounding landscape. The building’s unique appearance features composed patterns of Krause Bricks that create texture and depth, while the stylish curved facade evokes a sense of movement and elegance.

The eye-catching building features decorative bricks that make an impactful statement without overshadowing or contradicting the character of its residential surroundings. The rich colour palette of our Grampian Blues blend gives a natural sense of warmth that allows the building to blend into the school, forming an open and inviting space.

AQULIAM Luxury Apartments - Manly Beach, built with Krause Emperor Bricks in Ghost.

This striking luxury apartment building located on the northern headland of Manly Beach offers spectacular panoramic views of Sydney's stunning coastline. It was crucial that the materials used for this project complemented the building’s unique location, and that is exactly what designers SJB Architects achieved by selecting Krause Bricks Ghost Emperor Bricks as the feature material on the building’s exterior.

The earthy tones of the Ghost Emperor Bricks reflect the relaxing ambience of beachside living whilst preserving the luxurious aura of this magnificent building. The smooth, textured finish accentuates the architectural curves that feature on all corners, creating a stylish yet breezy open space that mimics the coastal landscape.

Thoughtful use of architectural bricks elevates the minimalistic design to evoke a sense of sophistication and luxury that is present throughout the entire building. Such an aesthetic is hard to match with any alternate building material. 

For more inspiration on how to use architectural bricks in contemporary building design, see our commercial projects. If you’re planning on featuring bricks in your next construction, no matter how big or small, get in touch to find out how Krause Bricks can supply your project.