The architect Egide Meertens on the Rutherford: A Study in Finesse and Architectural Class
From Vision to Refinement
In the architecture of outbuildings, such as a pool house, the challenge often lies in creating a structure that is both functional and seamlessly blends in with the main residence and its surroundings. For a project in Hasselt, the vision was clear: a minimalist, sleek oasis that exudes tranquillity and elegance. The search for a façade material that could embody this understated luxury led directly to a stone known for its finesse: Rutherford.
The Process and Implementation
To show off the finesse of Rutherford to its best advantage, it was decided to use thin-bed mortar (adhesive) for precise installation. This minimised the visibility of the joints, allowing the focus to remain entirely on the slender bricks themselves.
The precision of Joseph Bricks was crucial. The architect knew that the finish would be the deciding factor:
Horizontal Dominance: The slim format and thin joints transform the façade into a series of uninterrupted horizontal lines. This gave the pool house the desired sleek and floating appearance.
The Perfect Finish: The architect saw the Rutherford as the perfect skin for the building. The technical properties and dimensional stability of the brick made it possible to create sharp corners and minimalist roof edges, giving the whole structure a monolithic perfection.
The Architect's Verdict
The choice of materials for this project was a conscious decision in favour of minimalism and detail. The Rutherford was at the heart of that vision.
Architect: "We were looking for a stone that would reflect the serenity of the water. The Rutherford in Aether Grey (335 mm x 26 mm) is the embodiment of that tranquillity. It is not a stone that claims volume, but rather plays with it. Its slim format allowed us to anchor the horizontal tranquillity in the design. It is the ultimate choice for a façade that radiates tranquillity and luxury. This allowed us to achieve the minimalist perfection that suits an architectural oasis like this pool house."