Why Handmade Bricks and Tiles Still Have a Place in Contemporary Design

In an era dominated by mass-produced building materials, handmade brick tiles and bricks offer a refreshing alternative to any space. Loved for their warmth, character and timeless appeal, architects and designers are time and time again resorting back to these heritage building blocks as the first choice for their projects. At Krause Bricks - after doing what we do for 75+ years, we understand the enduring appeal of handmade craftsmanship and we’re passionate about showcasing the versatility of brick tiles in modern design. We believe there will always be a place for handmade brick tiles and bricks in contemporary interiors - here’s why:

Unrivalled Authenticity and Character

When compared to their mass-produced counterparts, handmade materials will always stand out for their individuality and character. Each brick and tile bears imprints from its human creator, subtle variations in colour, texture and shape that add another dimension to the material, which is what makes Krause Bricks product range so unique. Whatever its application, feature wall, fireplace or a kitchen backsplash, you can’t deny the warm, lived-in feeling that handmade brick tiles create.

Bricks are Sustainable and Durable

Boutique operations such as ours have the capabilities to monitor their carbon footprint effectively and invest in high quality, durable materials. Our handmade bricks are proudly carbon neutral, which has an enormous overall impact on the carbon footprint of projects, especially larger commercial builds. Find out more about our carbon neutral bricks here. In addition to our proud carbon neutral status, our products are made using high quality materials that have been selected to stand the test of time. 

Long term, it can be more economical to purchase durable products once, rather than the annoyance and costs associated with more regular repairs and maintenance.

Our bricks and tiles have stood the test of time, with over 75 years of manufacturing under our belt and many bricks from original builds all those years ago still proudly standing strong.

Design Versatility

At Krause Bricks, we’ve structured our production capabilities to ensure that we are not confined to one size or colourway. In fact, one of the major reasons we love producing our bricks by hand is that we have the option to create a fully custom product for customers and designers. 

We take great satisfaction in working with our clients to create standout bricks and tiles that are truly bespoke for their space, and turning their design vision into a reality. There’s nothing more special than seeing your unique commercial or residential project come to life with custom made Krause Bricks!

Using Bricks = Easy Maintenance

Despite their rugged appearance, handmade bricks and tiles are surprisingly low-maintenance. Unlike porous materials such as wood or marble, brick tiles are resistant to moisture, stains, and scratches, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the area clean, no fancy operations needed. The brick tiles used in the Claremont home, for example, are both a strikingly practical flooring and an aesthetic masterpiece. 

The handmade nature of the bricks and tiles means that it's hard to spot any dirt, so there’s no real need to keep them in steadfast condition all the time. It’s these simple considerations that pay off in the long run, especially when designing spaces that will be prone to lots of activity, such as hospitality venues or busy family homes.

Statement Walls

Last but definitely not least - the perfectly imperfect nature of handmade products means they’re an ideal choice for an interior or exterior statement wall. When applied on mass, the sea of texture and mottled shades of colour work together in harmony to create a statement wall that’s full of visual and physical interest. A perfect example is the feature walls on our recent project with RM Williams - check it out here.

Handmade brick tiles and bricks offer a timeless and authentic appeal that resonates with architects, designers, and homeowners alike. Their individuality, warmth, and character bring a unique charm to any space, while their sustainability, durability, and versatility make them a practical choice for modern interiors. With a focus on craftsmanship, quality, and customisation, our handmade materials promise not only long lasting beauty but also ease of maintenance and the potential for stunning statement walls. Embracing the imperfect beauty of handmade materials ensures that they will continue to hold a significant place in contemporary design for years to come.