In conversation with architect Katrien Vandevelde: why Joseph Bricks?
In conversation with architect Katrien Vandevelde: why Joseph Bricks?
Designing a home is more than just putting lines on paper: it is bringing together vision, materials and craftsmanship. What makes this project particularly special is that architect Katrien Vandevelde was not only the designer, but also the client. This dual role made the choice of the right materials even more personal and important. For the façade, the choice fell decisively on bricks from Joseph Bricks.
The search for a unique brick
As both client and architect, she explains how the choice for Joseph Bricks came about: 'We were looking for a grey brick, but the range on the market felt a bit tired. Always the same sizes and looks. What's more, I found the long formats from other manufacturers less practical: the natural curvature makes the unevenness very noticeable. At Joseph Bricks, we discovered a shorter long format, which proved much more pleasant to work with."
Through references and social media, she eventually ended up at Joseph Bricks. Initially, the focus was on the Franklin, but during a visit to the showroom, she was surprised by two new ranges: the J Adams and the T Jefferson.
" The J Adams immediately made an impression: the colour, size and, above all, low porosity were decisive factors. We definitely did not want a porous stone with a risk of efflorescence or discolouration. But at the same time, the T Jefferson also appealed to us: the warm nuances and subtle shades added extra vibrancy and depth. In the end, we did not choose either J Adams or T Jefferson, but a combination of both. "
The power of two series in one
The façade became a mix of J Adams and T Jefferson, combining power and refinement. The robust, sleek appearance of the J Adams was complemented by the warm shades of the T Jefferson. This resulted in a façade that looks sleek and natural, but also characterful and nuanced.
The processing and choice of joints
As she was also the client as an architect, she closely monitored the execution. The hardness of the bricks sometimes required extra effort when sawing, but she saw this as an advantage: ‘With the random bond, we had to do very little grinding, so there was hardly any waste. In the end, everything went very well.’
One striking aspect was the deliberate choice of joints:
"I knew from the start that I wanted joints. The 12 mm joint brings rhythm and structure to the façade, which further enhances the unique shape of the stone. We opted for a clear 12 mm joint, which runs around the house like a recognisable line. The head joints were also deliberately kept thinner, which ensures a refined result."
Architectural accents
A special feature of the project is the arch at the entrance. Instead of a standard solution, a customised design with cups and a wooden mould was chosen, resulting in a perfect curve. This shape is reflected not only in the façade, but also in the interior, creating a harmonious whole. In addition, the horizontal joints were deliberately scraped out, revealing fine lines that reinforce the traditional character.
Collaboration with Joseph Bricks
According to her, the collaboration was extremely positive: ‘We received a warm welcome from the people at Joseph Bricks, who gave us a comprehensive overview of the possibilities. We were allowed to see the production process and quickly received representative samples. That gave us confidence: the image we had in mind became a reality.’ Despite the challenges of the market, she says Joseph Bricks remained reliable in its agreements on price and delivery.
Aesthetics and experience
What Katrien Vandevelde particularly appreciates is how the combination of J Adams and T Jefferson works together: "We didn't want a smooth, flat stone. The J Adams provides sleekness and durability, while the T Jefferson adds warmth and nuance. The façade looks modern, but at the same time natural and timeless. What's more, the combination fitted in perfectly with our idea of creating a seamless transition between the arch shape and the interior."
A confident choice
Although other manufacturers were visited, the choice was quickly made: ‘We kept comparing them to what we had seen at Joseph Bricks. And every time, we came back to the combination of J Adams and T Jefferson. Everything just clicked: the colour, the shape, the texture. It was the perfect match.’
For Katrien Vandevelde, this project was extra special because, as an architect, she was able to design and build her own home: ‘When you're also the client, you want only the very best. You know that you'll be living with your choices every day. With this house, everything felt right: the bricks, the finish, the result. The combination of J Adams and T Jefferson gives our home its own unique soul.’