Brick has stood the test of time as one of the most versatile and timeless building materials. From ancient structures to modern architecture, it has retained its charm and appeal. When the drywall of a historical building is stripped away, the beauty of exposed brick walls is revealed, adding texture, warmth, and character to any living space. Whether left in its raw state or painted, exposed brick can create a range of styles, from rustic to industrial.
Rediscovering Textural Advent
In this article, we explore five projects that demonstrate how exposed brick can be used to evoke moments of textural advent in apartment spaces.
Loft in Marvila / RA+TR Arquitectos
RA+TR Arquitectos embarked on the renovation of a two-story building in Marvila, where the ground floor once served as a wine warehouse. Despite the dilapidated state of the existing structure, they preserved the pre-existing roof and dividing floor. By reconfiguring the space with wooden beams and a concrete floor, they created a mezzanine that allows for open views of the original brick walls and structure.
The ground floor was kept spacious, and the choice of materials maintains continuity with the building's industrial past, using lime mortars, woods, and hydraulic tiles. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, where the exposed brick walls become a captivating focal point.
JS Apartment / EB Arquitetos
Located in Cruzeiro Novo, Brazil, the JS Apartment underwent a simple, efficient, and low-cost renovation by EB Arquitetos. By removing dividing walls and integrating the kitchen, living room, and dining room, the space is filled with abundant natural light. The central structural pillar, exposed in its original concrete form, adds character and references the building's history.
The kitchen design prioritizes simplicity and functionality, featuring a countertop extending along rough brick walls. The inclusion of a suspended oblong metallic table serves as an homage to traditional Brazilian bar tables. The combination of exposed brick, steel elements, and cohesive design choices creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Kalanchevskaya Apartment / buro5
The Kalanchevskaya Apartment in Moscow, Russia, presented a unique challenge due to its pre-revolutionary origins. During the renovation, the design team sought to preserve the apartment's historical elements, such as wooden beams and mezzanine windows. The restoration process uncovered these hidden features, leading to design decisions that respected the building's original architecture.
The inclusion of mezzanine levels above the bedroom and bathroom, accessible through a library staircase, maximized the available space. Natural light floods the apartment through mezzanine windows, creating a Mediterranean-inspired ambiance. The combination of color, furnishings, and historical elements makes this apartment a unique blend of old and new.
AM Apartment / TwoBo Arquitectura
Embarking on the renovation of the AM Apartment, TwoBo Arquitectura recognized the challenges and opportunities presented by integrating contemporary design into a space with a rich history. To strike a balance between old and new, elements of the original construction, such as nolla-tile mosaic floors and ceiling frames, were retained. The process of uncovering layer upon layer of history led to the discovery of the original brick walls.
The design team carefully added new construction elements to complement the existing ones. By intertwining old and new, the space exudes a sense of continuity while allowing for modern living. The result is a stunning testament to the beauty and durability of exposed brick.
Musico Iturbi / Roberto Di Donato Architecture
Roberto Di Donato Architecture embraced the challenge of renovating an apartment unit in a listed building in Valencia, Spain. Despite years of neglect, the apartment's original structure provided a foundation for a distinct yet fluid design approach. By preserving the existing structure, the design team emphasized the apartment's character and materiality.
The tall wooden elements in the living space divide it into night and day areas, housing wardrobes and offering varying degrees of privacy. The restoration of the roof structure and its exposed beams creates a sense of space and volume. The apartment's contemporary design language coexists harmoniously with the historical features, resulting in a visually captivating and inviting living space.
From the stunning examples above, it is evident that exposed brick walls bring a sense of rustic warmth and character to any interior. By embracing the textural beauty of brick, these projects have created unique living spaces that pay homage to the past while embracing modern design principles.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on July 20, 2021.
