Corobrik: A Guide to Choosing Warmth, Texture, And Durability In Modern Wall Finishes

In recent years, architects and homeowners alike have been rethinking what it means to finish a wall. Where once smooth, plastered and painted surfaces reigned supreme, there’s now a growing appreciation for texture, tone, and tactile richness. It’s a shift that’s not just about aesthetics—it’s also about practicality, longevity, and environmental responsibility.

One finish that’s experiencing a well-deserved revival is face brick. Once associated mainly with traditional or rustic buildings, clay face brick has re-emerged as a versatile, on-trend option that brings natural texture and timeless warmth to both contemporary and classic projects. Be inspired with Corobrik.

A Shift Toward Natural Materials

The global trend towards raw, authentic materials is influencing everything from furniture design to flooring—and wall finishes are no exception. Architects and designers are increasingly choosing materials that bring a sense of grounding and permanence to spaces. Face brick delivers on this in a way that plaster and paint often can’t.

With its earthy tones, varied textures, and honest character, clay face brick adds visual depth and tactile interest to any design. Whether used internally to create a cosy feature wall or externally to anchor a building in its landscape, face brick’s organic appeal speaks to our growing desire for connection with nature.

Warmth You Can Feel (and See)

Unlike the cool, flat finish of paint, face brick brings a sense of warmth and approachability to a building. Soft, sandy hues, warm terracotta’s, and rich chocolate tones all help to create spaces that feel lived-in, comforting, and welcoming. As neutral colour palettes continue to dominate interior design, face brick fits effortlessly into this aesthetic—adding warmth without overwhelming the space.

It’s no surprise that textured walls are trending. They not only enhance visual interest but also work beautifully with light, casting subtle shadows and changing in tone throughout the day. Face brick offers this effect naturally, with no need for additional treatments or maintenance.

Beauty That Lasts

While plastered and painted walls can be beautiful when first completed, they often require ongoing upkeep—repainting every few years, fixing hairline cracks, or repairing water damage. In contrast, face brick is a finish that stands the test of time. It doesn’t peel, flake, or fade and needs very little maintenance, making it an attractive choice for both residential and commercial buildings.

For exteriors especially, face brick performs exceptionally well. It withstands the elements, offers thermal insulation benefits, and helps to regulate internal temperatures—reducing the need for additional heating or cooling.

Sustainability with Style

As sustainability becomes more important in the building industry, materials that combine durability with low environmental impact are increasingly sought after. Face brick ticks both boxes. Made from natural clay, it’s an eco-friendly choice with a long lifecycle. There’s no need for additional coatings, finishes, or regular chemical treatments, which means fewer materials and less maintenance over time.

A Material for Modern Living

The beauty of face brick today is that it no longer belongs to one particular style. Whether you’re designing a modern farmhouse, an urban loft, or a minimalist coastal home, there’s a face brick to suit the vision. From light neutrals to moody greys, smooth textures to rustic finishes, today’s range of face bricks is as diverse as the architecture they enhance.

The move toward texture and warmth in design isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a shift in how we relate to the spaces we live and work in. Face brick is more than just a building material; it’s a design decision that brings depth, beauty, and practicality in equal measure. While plaster and paint have their place, the quiet confidence of a face brick finish is hard to ignore.

As more designers rediscover the enduring appeal of brick, one thing is clear: this classic material is firmly back in style.

Contact: Corobrik

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Credits:
Architect: Thomas Leach Architects
Structural Engineer: Struct-M, Mark Hutchinson
Contractor: Berdien Builders cc
Photographer: Rafael Helman
Product: Corobrik Old Cape Blend