Creating a timeless exterior involves more than just picking durable materials- it’s about achieving balance, harmony, and style. The mix of bricks and stone have long been favoured in architecture for their strength and natural beauty. When combined thoughtfully, these two materials can result in a stunning and classic facade that elevates curb appeal and lasts for generations.
Why Combine Bricks and Stone?
Bricks and natural stone are durable, weather-resistant materials that age well, making them ideal for long-lasting exteriors. When combined, they add texture and depth, allowing homeowners to achieve a balanced mix of modern and traditional styles that suit a wide range of architectural designs.
Choosing the Right Colour Palette
Before choosing materials, it’s important to establish a cohesive colour scheme. Begin by selecting a dominant material, usually brick, and then pick a complementary stone. For instance, red or earthy bricks pair well with warm stones like sandstone, while grey bricks work best with cooler stones like bluestone or granite. Instead of using sharply contrasting colours, aim for subtle variation with transitional tones like creams, tans, or greys to create a unified, well-balanced exterior.
Balance and Placement
After selecting your materials, consider how and where each will be applied to achieve a balanced design. A common approach is to use brick as the primary cladding and add stone as an accent on features like columns, entryways, or the base of the home. Alternatively, you can reverse the roles-using stone as the foundation and brick as a highlight around windows or feature walls. To maintain a cohesive look, avoid overloading one area with texture, and ensure transitions between materials are clean and logical, ideally at architectural breaks like corners or rooflines.
Architectural Details That Work
To enhance your mixed-material exterior, focus on the finer details like mortar colour, joint style, and brick pattern, as these elements significantly impact the overall look. Using the same mortar colour for both brick and stone can help unify the facade. Additionally, make sure that trim, roofing, and gutter colours complement both materials-neutral shades such as black, beige, or dark grey are reliable options that work well with most natural tones.
Durability and Maintenance Considerations
Both bricks and natural stone are low-maintenance options. However, combining them requires ensuring both materials are installed with the correct support and drainage systems. Poor water management can cause long-term issues, particularly where different materials meet. Use high-quality materials to maintain the appearance and durability of your project.
Bringing It All Together
A well-planned mix of bricks and stone transforms a home’s exterior from ordinary to exceptional. When you design with intention and pay attention to detail, the combination delivers both visual appeal and long-lasting durability. By choosing complementary colours, balancing placement, and using high-quality materials, you create a timeless look that elevates your home for decades.
Parklea Sand and Soil offers a wide selection of Common Bricks and Grey Blocks that pair beautifully with a variety of stone products, making it easy to achieve a timeless exterior look. If you need help selecting the right materials for your project, feel free to contact us – our team is ready to assist.