With more than 11,000 years of history, brick is one of the oldest building materials. In fact, replacing sun-dried mud blocks, the Romans were the first to experiment with fired clay masses in new structural forms such as arches, vaults, and domes. Although the dimensions and manufacturing methods of this small module have evolved over the years, its components and classic rectangular shape have undergone few changes, especially considering its long history. The reason is simple: with its warmth, versatility, and outstanding structural properties, brick is a timeless material that never goes out of style.
It is no surprise, then, that brick remains one of the most widely used construction systems in the world—especially in Latin America, where its use represents local identity and culture. Within this context, Cerámica Santiago, the largest manufacturer of ceramic bricks in Chile, was founded over 40 years ago. To explore the possibilities of the material, we spoke with them to learn about the many advantages of brick that have earned it its renowned reputation in the industry.
