Ruskin Elwood
- Bricks
- Krause Mini Empress Bricks in Smoke Grey
- Architect
- Fieldwork Architects
- Developer
- HIP V. HYPE
- Krause Bricks supplied by
- Robertson's Building Products
Ruskin Elwood is a masterclass in modern materiality, beautifully showcasing how a unique brick format and a highly considered palette can define a building’s entire presence while anchoring it to the surrounding environment. Designed with a deep respect for its Elwood Canal location, the 100% electric and fossil fuel-free project places a strong emphasis on climate-resilient design, utilising durable, natural materials with a minimal environmental impact.
To ground the architecture in its surrounding context, Krause Mini Empress Bricks in Smoke Grey were selected as a foundational element. The intricate patterning of the masonry plays a crucial role in the building’s identity; dimpled brickwork at the base adds a distinct textural layer while clearly defining the internal finished floor level from the outside. This detailed dimpling transitions into a full breezeway on the east and west facades, providing a beautiful backlit effect at night for the series of windows behind it.
"We really like the Krause bricks, particularly the speckled and quite variable look of them. And the idea is that the cream, brown and grey tones of the brickwork will combine with the timber cladding above, which will grey off over time, and you’ll get this overall beautiful speckled grey palette, which will sit very nicely in the context. It’s a great product for Elwood; we’re very happy with it and it has resulted in a beautiful project"d. Iririki House becomes an important case study on how we can preserve the past without neglecting the future, and how considered quality materials are the gateway to balancing those efforts.
