We made the decision to use facing brick, brick block and clay paving
because the region has a great brick tradition. It is a special joy to work with a construction
material that is at home in the region where the building is located and which melds with it into
one harmonious whole. In realising the project, we also made reference to the many buildings
of the late artist Erwin Heerich as well as to the brick villas of Mies van der Rohe that can be
found in the nearby surroundings. As a natural material, the re-use of brick as a construction
material also shows particular value. The imperfection of the brick, in combination with the
wide joints, underscores the monolithic character of the building. This sculptural component of
architecture is very important for both Álvaro Siza and for myself too.