1. Brick
What it is: Made from clay and kiln-fired, brick remains a classic choice for its warmth and timeless look. Options range from uniform face brick to reclaimed or handmade units with unique color variation. Thin brick veneers can also be used for lightweight detailing.
Pros:
- Long-lasting and low-maintenance
- Broad palette of colors, textures, and sizes
- Great weather and fire resistance
- Timeless, widely loved look
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than basic siding
- Requires skilled masons for quality installation
- Less flexible if design changes are needed later
2. Concrete Block Masonry Units
What it is: Concrete masonry units (CMUs) are widely used for structural walls or as an exposed finish in modern designs. Blocks can be standard, split-face for added texture, or architectural-grade with special colors and aggregates.
Pros:
- Strong and economical for structure and finish
- Durable and fire-resistant
- Good sound insulation
- Versatile for both utilitarian and modern exposed looks
Cons:
- Raw blocks can appear stark if not carefully detailed
- May need additional insulation for energy codes
- Limited aesthetic range compared to brick or stone
3. Stone
What it is: Natural stone like limestone, granite, fieldstone, or slate brings unmatched texture and a sense of permanence. Stone can be used as full-depth cladding or thin veneer to balance weight and cost.
Pros:
- Beautiful, timeless look
- Extremely durable
- Natural variation gives every project unique character
- Works well for accents, fireplaces, or entire facades
Cons:
- Often more expensive than other masonry
- Heavy, so installation can be labor-intensive
- Sourcing quality stone and skilled stonemasons takes planning
4. Glass Block
What it is: Glass block is a semi-transparent masonry unit that allows light in while maintaining privacy. We’ve used glass blocks in custom homes for accent windows, shower walls, or stair landings — anywhere you want diffused daylight and an interesting visual feature.
Pros:
- Brings natural light to spaces needing privacy
- Adds a retro-modern or industrial touch
- Durable, low maintenance
- Helps diffuse light deeper into a home’s interior
Cons:
- Limited structural capacity — mainly used as accent walls
- Can look dated if not designed thoughtfully
- Requires careful detailing for moisture control
Is Masonry Right for Your Project?
Masonry can be an excellent choice if you want:
- A low-maintenance home that lasts for generations
- Extra protection against fire, pests, and harsh weather
- Quiet, comfortable indoor spaces
- A classic or modern look with texture and depth
- A boost to property value through lasting curb appeal
Things to Consider Before You Build
While masonry offers big benefits, thoughtful planning is key:
- Cost: Masonry often costs more upfront than other finishes, but pays off over time in durability and low maintenance.
- Skilled Labor: Quality matters. Good masonry requires experienced masons.
- Structure: Not every wall needs full masonry. Veneers or partial accents can deliver the look without the full structural load.
- Weather: Masonry construction is sensitive to cold or wet conditions, which can affect timing and cost.
Final Thoughts
From warm brick and bold stone to modern concrete block or light-filtering glass block, masonry helps custom homes feel grounded, durable, and one-of-a-kind. At Akar Architecture, we help clients select the right masonry materials to balance beauty, performance, and budget, ensuring every detail works in harmony with the home’s overall design.
