Reclaimed Brick in the Garden: History, Charm, and Sustainable Style

Reclaimed brick brings instant character—dings, pockmarks, faded stains, and rough edges tell a story new materials can't match. Beyond aesthetics, using salvaged brick diverts waste from landfills and reduces demand for new manufacturing.

The Basics

Bricks are classic modular pavers made from clay, sand, water, and local minerals, molded and kiln-fired. For reclaiming, street bricks (paving bricks) and common bricks (face bricks) are the most durable and widely available.

Street Brick vs. Common Brick

Street brick, cured harder and less moisture-absorbent, withstands freeze-thaw cycles and vehicle traffic. Common brick absorbs more water and will crumble in cold-climate paving. Reputable suppliers clearly label each type.

Cost and Sourcing

Expect $6–$15 per square foot, with antique pavers commanding premiums. Buy by the pallet from hardscape suppliers. In older U.S. cities, local sources abound: municipal reuse facilities, architectural salvage shops, and contractor leads. Shipping is costly—bricks weigh ~4 lbs each, so freight adds up.

Sustainability

Like reclaimed wood, salvaged brick gives materials a second life, keeping them out of landfills and reducing new resource extraction.

Design Inspiration

Mix Color Tones

Blend terra-cotta reds with cream-colored bricks for visual depth. Light furniture complements the palette.

Large Terraces

Deep grayish-red reclaimed bricks in a 45-degree herringbone pattern create striking large-scale surfaces, especially in shaded areas.

Mix Reclaimed Paving Types

Combine granite cobblestones with old bricks for varied color fields unified by consistent aged patina.