Exposed Brickwork helps to bring texture, colour and ambiance when working with an interior space. Brick slips are fantastic for achieving this stylish desired look.
We are going to look at how this can be achieved, and the way that it helps revitalise bland and non commanding wall space.
Just to clarify, the exposed look we are talking about is the one which you get by removing plaster from old interior walls.
The history of exposed brick work
Exposed brick work has become a highly attractive feature within the modern home and office. At this point it is worth noting that some of the best exposed brick slip walls we have seen would be far from perfect if they were on the outside of your home.
When creating an exposed brick slip wall the perfection is in the imperfection.
Going back 50-100 years brick built homes and commercial buildings were built pretty much the same way as they are today. Brick layers and laborers would be the main workforce behind building most buildings within the UK. In order to meet demand and build as quickly as possible the internal wall which would be plastered was usually built with little care.
Whist skilled brick layers would focus on the exterior of a property, making sure their work was finished immaculately and with precision. The internal walls were often built and pointed by the unskilled labourers. As this surface was never to be seen the bricks were usually seconds that were cast aside by the brick layer. Chipped and off-coloured the bricks used for internal walls would be applied very crudely and mortared with very little care by the labourer.
How can this be done with brick slips?
If you have decided you want this exposed look for an internal wall then you will first need to choose a brick.
The Olde Bayswater and Docklands Red Multi are firm favourites for this as the appearance and texture is already present.
When using a reclaimed or handmade brick slip we always recomend sorting through the brick slips. By doing this you can make sure that the colourings are random across your wall as there can be variance from box to box.
Once the brick slips have been installed the pointing is where the magic happens.
Neat pointing will look too crisp. We always advise when pointing an “exposed wall” point like you are a child. Be messy, and not exact and make sure you get plenty of mortar on the bricks. This way when the mortar has dried and you are brushing the wall down it will look authentic.
Why have an exposed brick look?
The exposed brick look amplifies a sense of warmth and character. Rather than plain white walls exposed brickwork adds texture to a space. Even though you will be creating the look with brick slips. Having an exposed wall speaks to the history of a building. In an age where most internal walls are made from carcasing timber, an exposed brick wall accentuates. An exposed wall gives an illusion of real bricks carefully laid down each brick.
Aside from looking fabulous, whether left alone or in combination with wood, glass, or white paint, an exposed brick wall is loaded with meaning.
A modern approach to an age-old traditional trade. It makes us want to run our fingers on it.
Reminding us of craftsmanship and history Its rich texture inspires stability, monumentality and authenticity.
Exposed brickwork is effortlessly decorative and sometimes says more than a modern work of art
