Marrickville Blush by Benn+Penna

Located in Sydney’s vibrant inner-western suburb of Marrickville, Marrickville Blush is perched dramatically along the cliffline overlooking the Cooks River. Designed by Benn+Penna, the recent additions to heritage-listed workers' cottage embrace both its historic significance and the rugged beauty of its surroundings. Through the seamless continuation of materials and architectural forms, there is a natural dialogue between the home and landscape.

“The original heritage fabric of the site was further enhanced through pink-hued wash that beautifully complements the blush tones within the bricks.”

Chosen for their strength, durability and visual warmth, Bowral Bricks’ Bowral 76 in Simmental Silver are distinctive dry pressed bricks with a unique granular patina and tactile aesthetic. Their sharp edges and inherent character combined with the distinctive Simmental Silver shade, successfully balance heritage preservation and contemporary flair. Bowral Bricks are backed by an exclusive Brickworks 100 year warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship when used for their intended purpose and in compliance with relevant standards. The warranty also guarantees that the bricks will be colorfast and durable for the lifetime of the product.

Designed to feel as though they are carved directly into the cliff, the bricks form intimate, cave-like sleeping chambers nestled beneath. Native landscapes surround the build; the result of ecological restoration that was key to the design outcome. Weeds were removed, and the area’s original system was reinstated to strengthen biodiversity and support local wildlife.

“The Bowral Brick was fundamental to the architectural expression of this project. Its tactile, sculptural presence allowed the design to take on a graceful yet grounded form. Through the hit-and-miss brickwork, the architecture maintains a porous connection to the cliffline and natural surrounds, letting the landscape permeate the built form. The brick’s material robustness echoes the exposed rockfaces of the site, while its thermal mass provides a pragmatic comfort for living,” explains Andrew Benn, Director of Benn+Penna.

The original heritage fabric of the site was further enhanced through pink-hued wash that beautifully complements the blush tones within the bricks whilst also maintaining harmony with the surrounding cliffs and vegetation.

Through Marrickville Blush, Benn + Penna successfully demonstrate the role of brick in creating meaningful, enduring architecture that integrates landscape, history and contemporary living.