Mastering the Art of Blending Brick
Stellaria, renowned experts in European bricks and building materials, have curated a guide to blending brick, illuminating the essence of this historic technique. Brick blending, a cornerstone of architectural detailing, entails seamlessly integrating various brick types, colors, and textures to achieve stunning outcomes. Understanding different brick types, evaluating color tones, ensuring consistency in mortar mix, incorporating contrast, and embracing imperfections are all integral aspects of mastering brick blending. Read on to learn how blending brick can redefine outdoor living spaces, embodying a perfect blend of innovation, sustainability, and bespoke elegance.
Stellaria Blended Brick Slips: Anglesey Weathered Buff, St Ives & Marziale
Brickwork is an age-old craft that has evolved into an art form. The beauty of brick blending techniques lies in the seamless integration of different styles and methods to create stunning outcomes. Mastering the art of brick blending techniques can take your project to the next level. Here are some tips and tricks to guide you on this journey...
1. Understanding Different Brick Types:
Before diving into blending techniques, it's crucial to have good knowledge of the various types of bricks available. Common types include, facing bricks, engineered bricks, and reclaimed bricks. Each type has its own characteristics, such as colour, texture, and size, which can influence your blending approach. Experiment with blending different types of bricks, such as facing bricks, engineered bricks, and reclaimed bricks. Mixing various brick types can add depth and visual interest to your brickwork, creating a dynamic and unique appearance.
2. Evaluate Colour Tones:
Pay attention to the colour tones of the bricks. Decide whether you want a monochromatic look with similar shades or a more varied palette with complementary or contrasting colours. Consider factors such as the exterior paint colour, roof material, and landscaping when choosing the colour of your brick.
3. Consistent Mortar Mix:
Achieving consistency in your mortar mix is essential for seamless blending. Use the right proportions of sand, cement, and water to create a mortar that matches the colour and texture of your bricks. Experiment with different mixes and bonding patterns to find the perfect balance for your project.
4. Incorporate Contrast:
While blending techniques aim for cohesion, incorporating contrast can add visual interest to your brickwork. Experiment with alternating colours or introducing accent bricks to create focal points or patterns within your design. Be mindful of balance and harmony to ensure the contrast enhances rather than overwhelms the overall aesthetic.
5. Sample Panels
Before making a final decision, have your bricklayer prepare a sample panel or ask for swatches from your brick supplier. Seeing the bricks in-situ allows you to assess how they interact with light and surrounding materials, helping you make an informed choice.
6. Embrace Imperfections:
Brickwork is inherently imperfect, and embracing these imperfections enhances its charm and character. Allow for subtle variations in colour, texture, and size, as they contribute to the authenticity and uniqueness of the finished product. Avoid striving for absolute uniformity, as in some cases this can detract from the natural beauty of the brickwork you are looking to achieve.
Recent Blended Brick Project using Stellaria Bricks
When Steve and Viv visited our office to choose their bricks, they brought with them clear visions of the aesthetic they aimed to accomplish. The final outcome is truly exceptional, capturing attention with its distinctiveness and charm.
The brickwork, the mortar, the overall appearance, and the seamless blend embodies the essence of modern rusticity, seamlessly intertwining the contemporary with the timeless with the inclusion of 'buried' brick evoking a sense of tradition and longevity, adding depth and significance to the design.
For more on this project visit our Terca Brick Project - St Ives, Abbotsley Blend, Cambridge.
Blending brick techniques is a blend of science and artistry, requiring precision, creativity, and attention to detail. By understanding different brick types, experimenting with blending techniques, and focusing on craftsmanship, you can take brickwork to new heights. Whether you're renovating or building new, these tips and tricks will help you achieve stunning results that stand the test of time.
To see Terca Bricks in person visit the Stellaria Showroom at Residium. Stellaria showcases a comprehensive display of their product range, offering samples for examination, the creation of mood boards, and exploration of the entire selection. The showroom features a spacious counter area equipped with docking stations synced to a large screen TV, facilitating on-site meetings with architects, designers, or specifiers to review plans and finalize options.
