Noble by nature

In the heart of an urban environment in Lille, France, Villa Masquet makes a striking impression with its façade that is both contemplative and bold. Architect Jean-Philippe Coache skillfully merges tradition and modernity by integrating Terca Eco-bricks, a sustainable and forward-thinking cladding solution. Subtle shifts in brick modulation and shadow give the façade an expressive character while also creating a serene and balanced relationship with the surrounding natural elements.

North and south

On the south side of the building, it opens towards the garden, where brick interacts with raw concrete and timber. Together they form an expressive and open composition, that creates a cozy atmosphere in and around the garden, especially enjoyable during mild summer evenings, where as the sun moves, the light reveals the texture and depth of the façade.

To the north, the façade appears as a solid, monolithic surface composed of the horizontally laid terracotta-coloured bricks. Here, the integrated moucharabiehs give the outer wall a seemingly porous texture, allowing light and air to filter through while maintaining privacy and thermal comfort. This controlled transparency contributes to natural ventilation and passive solar management.

Natural aesthetics

The Terca Atica wasserstrich red was not only chosen for its aesthetic qualities, but for its sustainable nature: Locally sourced and highly durable, the bricks play an essential role in the building’s environmental strategy. These bricks, thinner than traditional bricks, not only reduce the amount of raw material needed for their manufacture, but also refine the architectural lines. Even though they are lighter, they retain all the qualities of durability and resistance, that brick façades´ are known for. Their palette of natural shades enriches the aesthetics of the project, chosen for their low environmental impact and durability, they age gracefully over time.

Villa Masquet demonstrates how sustainable design can be integrated into architectural expression - here materials tell a story of place, atmosphere, and their thoughtful construction.

The architect’s choice

Jean-Philippe Coache, architect: "The light, the orientations and the nearby urban landscape really guided the volumetric design of this house. The idea was to assume a form of radicality while seeking marked contrasts, with this light-dark duality which plays on the depths.

The construction is in the image of the original conceptual idea of the project, a form of radicality is assumed both in the design of the openings and in the materiality of the project. The use of Eco-brick allowed us to respect our ecological commitment without compromising on aesthetics or durability. It is a lighter and more environmentally friendly brick, but which retains all the nobility of terracotta."