Endless Colour. Timeless Style. Why Corobrik’s Engobe Range is a Game-Changer

When it comes to building materials that blend long-term performance with contemporary design, face brick is hard to beat. And now, with the introduction of our engobed range, Corobrik is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible — both aesthetically and technically.

What is an Engobed Brick?

An engobe is a thin layer of coloured clay or mineral slip applied to the surface of a brick before firing. Unlike surface paints or coatings, this technique becomes part of the brick body during the firing process, giving it a permanent finish that will never peel or fade. The result is a brick with a refined, consistent colour tone that retains the natural texture and feel of clay.

In simple terms: you get the colour you want, and it stays that way — for life.

Meet the Colours: Artisanal Vanilla and Vanilla Travertine

Vanilla is one of the standard colours in our engobe range, available in two distinct textures — Artisanal and Travertine. Inspired by soft, natural hues, both finishes complement a wide range of architectural styles, from minimal and monolithic to warm and organic.

While both the Corobrik Artisanal and Travertine face brick use the same soft Vanilla engobe colour, the textures offer two distinct aesthetic effects:

Artisanal has a smoother, more refined finish with subtle surface variation that gives it a handcrafted, contemporary look. It’s ideal for clean-lined architecture where a more uniform texture is preferred.
Travertine features a deeper, more pronounced texture that mimics the layered, striated effect of natural travertine stone. This finish adds a sense of depth, movement, and raw character — perfect for designs that embrace organic and tactile elements.

These tones provide an elegant alternative to traditional brick colours, offering a fresh take for those wanting something lighter, brighter, and more design-forward — without sacrificing performance.

Designed for Architects. Loved by Homeowners.

The engobe process gives architects the freedom to explore colour like never before. Whether you’re working on a boutique residential build or a large-scale commercial project, engobed bricks offer the perfect combination of customisation and durability.

We can produce virtually any colour within this range — from soft neutrals to rich, bold hues. Whatever your design vision, Corobrik can match it. And because the colour is fired into the brick, it won’t require repainting or maintenance — making it as practical as it is beautiful.

A Colour That Lasts as Long as the Brick

Colour fading is a common concern when using lighter exterior finishes. Paint peels, coatings weather, and surfaces stain over time — especially under harsh African sun. With engobed bricks, there’s no need to worry.

The colour integrity of our engobe range is built to last for generations. These bricks are:

UV-resistant
Low maintenance
Stain-resistant
Fade-proof

So your building will look as striking in 20 years as it does on day one.

Future-Facing, Earth-Rooted

Our engobed bricks are more than a design trend — they’re part of a broader move toward materials that are natural, sustainable, and timeless. By combining the heritage of clay brick with the flexibility of custom colour, Corobrik is offering the best of both worlds.

As architectural trends continue to favour textured finishes, earthy palettes, and lasting materials, Corobrik’s engobe range is right on cue.

Ready to explore the possibilities?

Speak to your local Corobrik representative to request a sample of Artisanal Vanilla or Vanilla Travertine, or to discuss custom colour options for your next project.