Brick House by Sayes Studio

A revival of a classic red brick facade, Brick House is a light-filled home that balances minimalism with moments of playfulness. Designed by Sayes Studio director, Henri Sayes, for himself and his family, the design also allows for experimentation with colour and form.

Located on a leafy inner-city street in Onehunga in Auckland, Brick House’s allure is subtle and unassuming. The design works alongside the site; the gradient allowing for a low-lying home with an outdoor courtyard that nestles into the hollow of the sloping aspect. Walking towards the home, a black cedar-clad soffit surrounds the front door. This defines the entry sequence and accentuates the cracked, red brick facade adorning the rest of the home.

Located on a leafy inner-city street of Onehunga in Auckland, Brick House’s allure is subtle and unassuming.

Before stepping inside, the red brick exterior beckons you to inspect, wander and explore. An asymmetric gable form, Brick House consists of two blocks: a garage with bedrooms above it and an open-plan living, dining and kitchen, with circulation through interstitial spaces. The home connects with the garden at every opportunity, with planters and greenery surrounding the exterior hinting at what is to come.

In contrast to the home’s facade, the interior is soft and sinuous, dominated by circular and arched motifs. The split-level design and gradients of ceiling levels delineate spaces, creating separate sections within the open plan. A curved staircase, organic ceiling transitions and a large circle island bench in the kitchen add organic qualities to the home, while the garden features a geometric brick retaining wall and seat for further contrast.

Timber floors, marble detailing and glass balance against vibrant artworks, playful decor and red clay hues that reference the red brick exterior, culminating in a calm and unpretentious space.

Walking through the home, it feels soft and warm. Brick House is orientated in a way that welcomes light and sun while allowing for natural ventilation. The main living space resembles a tent-like structure with French doors that enable the entire north face of the living area to be opened up. Timber floors, marble detailing and glass balance against vibrant artworks, playful decor and red clay hues that reference the red brick exterior, culminating in a calm and unpretentious space.

Sayes Studio thoughtfully reworks a classic material to create a contemporary family home. In doing so, Brick House challenges conceptions of the traditional red brick home as banal or outdated, revealing its potential to be sophisticated, distinct and refreshing.

Architecture by Sayes Studio. Appliances by Fisher & Paykel.