Reclaimed brick textures (194)

Awarded a 2026 RIBA International Award for Excellence, this project highlights the important role of reclaimed brick in contemporary architecture.

However, an examination of the facade assembly reveals a notable contrast: while the reclaimed brick reflects an effort to reduce embodied carbon, the underlying spec relies on PUR insulation and calcium silicate backing blocks.

Architecture is inherently complex, and decicions must be taken regarding many variables. With a thermal conductivity as low as 0,020 y 0,028 W/(m·K), rigid polyurethane (PUR) remains one of the most efficient insulation materials available—making this specification a pragmatic balance between operational efficiency and material circularit.

More information: https://www.makerarchitecten.com/

 

YIMBY

Architect: 
Location: 
Tughusstraat 36
8500 Kortrijk
Belgium
Year of construction: 
2024
Solution: 
Weight of the entire facade: 
Period: 
Finishing material: 
Supporting element: 
Photographer: 

Stijn Bollaert

Authorship of the graphical documentation: 

MAKER Architecten