NEWS ARTICLE ARCHIVES

Austral expands Brick range



If you have seen a stylish new brick in all types of constructions in Victoria, chances are that it is from the Austral Bricks' Elements Series.

Recently released, Austral Bricks' Elements Series, which has four distinctive and cool colours, has been welcomed by architects, specifiers, builders and home buyers looking for something distinctive.

Named because of their ability to give a fresh perspective to designs where there are elements of steel, glass, timber and other finishes, the Elements Series has already been specified for major projects. These include projects such as the Carnegie Library, Altona Meadows Library and a number of churches, hospitals and police stations in Victoria.

According to Russell Witherow, Austral Bricks' Victorian commercial sales manager, architects he has spoken to have been delighted with the distinctive look of the new bricks.

"We originally had the Blue Onyx as semi-glazed brick in our range. It has been very popular for commercial projects and for banding and feature walls in residential constructions," he says. "It was obvious there was a demand for other types of unique semi-glazed bricks so we have developed the range further to give a range of colours for the industry to choose from. In addition to Blue Onyx we have Zinc which has a subtle steely blue look with a tinge of metallic. Then there is Graphite with a matt charcoal finish and Garnet that has a burgundy finish."

"While we thought bricks from the series would be used mainly for feature panels in residential buildings in some cases home buyers are using them for the construction of the whole project.

"Architects are finding with the Elements Series they are able to use the bricks in more contemporary designs. The series of bricks blend well with other building materials in constructions giving a welcome contrast to timber, concrete, steel, glass and paint finishes. This widens their appeal for all types of construction projects with their silk like finishes adding a subtle sheen to designs large and small."

According to Richard West, Austral Bricks' marketing manager, the Elements Series is a result of Austral Bricks' research of the construction market's needs and trends that break the normal mould.

"While clay bricks are well known for their durability and strength they are also very much a style product," he says. "Architects and designers are always keen to create a particular look that will give a dynamic difference to their project and the Elements Series gives a modern interpretation for architectural excellence.

"The series is at the cutting edge, using new hi tech glazing techniques. It is a striking example of pleasing to the eye bricks and our determination to develop products that will provide a unique interpretation to designs."