31 Brick Painting Ideas to Upgrade Your Home

Thinking about giving your home a fresh new look, but not sure where to begin? I’ve found that painting brick is one of the easiest ways to refresh a space and add personality, whether it’s indoors or out.

If you’re after a clean, modern vibe or something cozy and rustic, a painted brick wall can help bring your vision to life.

In this guide, I’ll show you everything you need to know, from picking the right paint and color to brick painting ideas, techniques, and tips to keep it looking great over time.

Let’s see how a few coats of paint can completely change your home.

Why Painting Bricks is a Good Idea

Painting your brick can completely change the look and feel of your space, both indoors and outdoors. If you’re aiming for a sleek, modern style or a cozy, rustic vibe, the right paint can improve your home’s design and curb appeal.

You can stick with one of the popular brick colors, like soft white, charcoal gray, or even sage green, or go bold with a custom shade that reflects your personal style. A fresh coat of paint can also protect the brick from wear and tear, weather damage, and staining.

Considerations and Drawbacks

• Long-term Maintenance: Painted brick requires regular upkeep, including touch-ups over time.
• Potential Damage: Improper painting or sealing can trap moisture in the brick, leading to peeling or damage.
• Permanence: Once painted, it can be difficult and costly to remove the paint if you later want to change the look.

Weighing the benefits and drawbacks will help you decide if painting your brick is the right choice for your space.

Choosing the Right Paint for Your Brick

When it comes to painting brick, choosing the right paint is crucial for durability and appearance. Here are the two most popular types of paint for brick:

• Acrylic Latex Paint: This is the most common option for interior and exterior brick. It’s easy to apply, dries quickly, and is available in a wide range of colours. It’s also breathable, allowing moisture to escape, which helps prevent damage over time.
• Masonry Paint: Specifically designed for masonry surfaces like brick, stone, and concrete. It’s thicker and more durable than acrylic latex, offering extra protection against weather and moisture. It’s perfect for outdoor brick or areas exposed to harsh conditions.

As you check out exterior house color ideas, these paint types give you flexibility in both style and performance.

If you’re going for a classic whitewashed look or a bold, modern statement, the right product can help bring your vision to life.

Key Considerations

• Weather Conditions: Choose a paint designed for the specific climate in your area. For example, opt for masonry paint in areas with frequent rainfall or high humidity.
• Brick Type: Different brick types (smooth vs. porous) may need different paint types or prep work for optimal adhesion.
• Longevity: Consider how long you want the paint to last. Masonry paint typically lasts longer, but acrylic latex can be sufficient for indoor applications.

By selecting the right paint based on these factors, you can ensure a long-lasting and beautiful finish for your brick surfaces.

Fresh Brick Painting Ideas for Your Home

Here are some unique and inspiring brick painting ideas that will improve your space with style and personality:

1. Classic Whitewashed Look

A whitewashed brick wall offers a soft, neutral look that brightens any room or exterior. It’s classic and works with nearly any style, whether modern, rustic, or traditional.

This look also helps create an airy, spacious feeling, especially for smaller spaces or dark rooms.

2. Bold Black Accent Wall

Painting a single brick wall black can create a striking focal point in any room. It adds drama and sophistication, especially in spaces with light furniture or decor.

Black walls make other colours pop and complement various design styles, from modern to industrial.

3. Earthy Terracotta

Terracotta shades bring warmth and rusticity to your space. This earthy colour works great for creating cozy, Mediterranean-inspired interiors or exteriors.

Paired with natural wood tones, it adds an organic feel, perfect for earthy or boho-style homes looking for warmth and character.

4. Chic Grey and White Combo

A balanced mix of grey and white on brick creates a sleek, modern look. This timeless combo adds sophistication to any room or exterior.

Even if you opt for soft greys or bold contrasts, the grey and white combination is ideal for minimalist and contemporary interiors.

5. Faux Brick Texture

Achieving a faux brick texture with paint can add depth and character to smooth walls. This technique mimics the look of traditional brickwork without the heavy cost or labour.

It’s perfect for adding a rustic or industrial touch to your home while maintaining flexibility in design.

6. Vibrant Bright Colours

Don’t shy away from bold hues! Bright colours like teal, coral, or yellow can instantly energise a room. This lively approach is perfect for a playful, modern home or a colourful accent wall.

It’s an excellent way to showcase personality and create a vibrant focal point.

7. Shabby Chic Distressed Look

A distressed brick wall can add a vintage or shabby chic appeal. Lightly sand the paint to create a worn, weathered appearance.

This style works well in rustic or farmhouse-inspired spaces, where the beauty of ageing is celebrated, giving your brick wall character and history.

8. Soft Taupe

Taupe is a subtle, sophisticated choice for brick. Its muted tone blends well with almost any colour scheme, making it ideal for creating a calm, neutral backdrop in spaces where you want to create a serene ambience.

This versatile colour works well for both interior and exterior brick projects.

9. Pastel Shades

Pastels like mint, peach, and lavender bring a soft, serene vibe to any space. These colours brighten up a room without overwhelming it.

They’re perfect for bedrooms, bathrooms, or any room that needs a gentle touch. Pair with light furniture for a fresh, airy look.

10. Chalkboard Wall

Make a brick wall into a chalkboard for a functional and fun space. This creative idea is perfect for kitchens, home offices, or children’s playrooms.

It allows you to jot down notes, recipes, or drawings, offering both style and practicality in one go.

11. Geometric Patterns

Bold geometric patterns on a brick wall can create a modern, artistic focal point. Use painter’s tape to define clean lines and shapes, such as triangles, squares, or chevrons.

This is a great way to add energy to a room while maintaining a minimal and stylish design.

12. Contrasting Two-Tone Design

Divide your brick wall into two contrasting sections with different colours. One half could be bold and the other neutral, or pair complementary hues for added contrast.

This unique design adds depth and draws attention to your wall, perfect for modern or industrial spaces.

13. Ombre Gradient Effect

Achieve a stunning ombre gradient effect by blending colours from light to dark. This smooth transition gives your brick wall a calming, artistic look.

Choose colours like soft blues, greens, or purples to create a peaceful vibe, making it perfect for bedrooms or living rooms.

14. Wood-Look Finish

A wood-look finish on your brick wall brings a natural, rustic beauty. Use wood-stain paint or earthy tones to mimic the grain of wood.

This style is ideal for cozy spaces, such as living rooms, dining rooms, or even kitchens, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere.

15. Metallic Accents

Metallic paint, such as gold, silver, or bronze, can add a touch of glamour to your brick.

Even if it’s an accent around windows, doorways, or a full feature wall, metallics provide a sleek, industrial edge. This design pairs beautifully with neutral-colored brick for contrast.

16. Mosaic Tile Look

Create the look of mosaic tiles by painting individual sections of brick in varying shades of color. This colourful, artistic effect can be used to design unique patterns or even a complete mural.

It’s perfect for adding personality and a creative touch to any room, inside or out.

17. Hand-Painted Stencils

Add intricate designs to your brick using stencils. From floral patterns to geometric shapes, hand-painted stencils can add a custom, artistic touch to your space.

This method is ideal for anyone seeking to add a personal touch to their brick walls with style and elegance.

18. Weathered Stone Look

Achieve a natural, weathered stone look by using muted greys, whites, and earthy tones. This style mimics the ageing process of stone, adding character and depth to your brick wall.

It works perfectly for rustic, farmhouse, or country-style homes looking for timeless appeal.

19. Bohemian-Inspired Painted Wall

Bring a touch of boho chic to your home by painting your brick wall with bold, colourful patterns. Incorporate rich hues and abstract designs to create a relaxed, artistic vibe.

This style adds personality and life to spaces like living rooms or bedrooms, making them perfect for a free-spirited design.

20. Coastal Nautical Colours

Soft blue and white stripes evoke a calm, coastal feel. These colors are perfect for creating a beach-inspired atmosphere in your home.

Use them on exterior brick walls or in coastal-themed interior spaces, such as sunrooms or bathrooms, to bring the freshness of the sea indoors.

21. Vertical Stripes

Vertical stripes can make your brick walls appear taller and add visual interest. Use contrasting colors, such as dark and light shades, for a bold look.

Vertical stripes are ideal for narrow spaces, creating the illusion of height while adding a dynamic, modern feature wall.

22. Farmhouse Beauty

Soft, muted tones like dusty blue, grey, or beige help create a warm, welcoming farmhouse atmosphere.

This paint choice works well in living rooms, kitchens, or dining areas, where the goal is to combine rustic beauty with cozy elegance. Pair with vintage decor for the perfect farmhouse vibe.

23. Matte Finish

A matte finish provides a sleek, non-reflective appearance that is ideal for contemporary interiors. It lends a smooth, understated look to your brick walls, making it suitable for minimalist or modern spaces.

This finish is also great for hiding imperfections and adding a sophisticated touch to any room.

24. Natural Stone Shades

Use earthy tones like sandstone, slate, or limestone to create the appearance of natural stone on your brick.

This finish brings a rustic, natural look to your home, making it a perfect option for farmhouse, rustic, or Mediterranean-style interiors that embrace nature-inspired designs.

25. Textured Paint

Add texture to your brick wall using sponges or brushes to create a unique surface. This technique adds depth and dimension, giving the brick a one-of-a-kind finish.

Textured paint is well-suited for spaces that require visual interest and a more dynamic feel.

26. Sunset Gradient

Use warm shades of orange, red, and yellow to create a vibrant, sunset-inspired gradient effect.

This look is bold and energetic, making it perfect for feature walls or accent spaces in living rooms or hallways. The warm tones evoke a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

27. Glittery Touch

Add a fun, sparkling effect to your brick surface with glitter paint. This idea is perfect for accent walls or as a creative touch in children’s rooms, game rooms, or home offices.

Glitter adds a playful, glam element to your design without overwhelming the space.

28. Primary Bold Colours

Bright primary colours, such as red, blue, and yellow, can add a pop of fun to any room. These bold colours work well in playrooms, offices, or any space where you want to add excitement and energy. Combine them for a dynamic, youthful vibe.

29. Silver and Grey Sophistication

Create a refined, modern look with silver and grey tones. This colour combination adds a sleek, stylish edge to your brick walls.

Ideal for living rooms, kitchens, or offices, it complements contemporary furniture and decor, offering a cool and calming effect with a touch of luxury.

30. Painted Fireplace Accent

Highlight your fireplace with a unique painted brick design. Choose bold or neutral colours to match the rest of your living space.

A painted fireplace can become the focal point of your room, offering warmth and character while enhancing the overall ambience of the space.

31. Artistic Wall Mural

Turn your brick wall into a work of art with a custom mural. Whether it’s a scenic landscape, abstract design, or personalised pattern, a mural adds a unique touch to any room.

This idea works well for creating a striking, one-of-a-kind feature wall in any space.

Popular Colour Choices for Painted Brick

When it comes to painting brick, the colour you choose can significantly impact the overall beauty of your home. Whether you’re aiming for a neutral, bold, or earthy look, here are some popular colour options to consider:

• White: A fresh, timeless choice that brightens any space, giving it a clean, airy feel.
• Beige: A warm, versatile tone that works well with various architectural styles, adding subtle elegance.
• Grey: A sophisticated, modern colour perfect for both traditional and contemporary designs.
• Black: Bold and dramatic, black painted brick makes a striking statement, creating a refined and elegant focal point.
• Navy Blue: A deep, classic blue that adds richness and elegance, making a statement without overwhelming the space

Inspiring Exterior Colour Ideas for Your Home

Choosing the right exterior house colour can greatly enhance your home’s curb appeal.

• Accessible Beige (SW 7036): This warm, earthy beige adds a cozy, inviting feel to your home’s exterior.
• Naval (SW 6244): A deep, elegant navy blue that creates a bold yet classic statement for a refined look.
• Peppercorn (SW 7674): A rich charcoal that adds a modern, sleek touch to your exterior, ideal for contemporary homes.
• Sea Salt (SW 6204): A soft, calming green with subtle blue undertones, perfect for a peaceful, nature-inspired vibe.
• Sandbar (SW 7547): A muted, warm beige that complements traditional homes, offering a classic and welcoming appearance.

Techniques for Painting Brick

Painting brick can breathe new life into your space, with different techniques offering unique finishes to suit any style. Here are some popular methods to consider:

Full Coverage Painting

For a uniform, clean finish, start by cleaning the brick and applying a masonry primer. Use a roller for larger areas and a brush for edges, ensuring an even coat of your chosen paint.

Limewash Technique

Limewash provides a textured, weathered look. Mix limewash with water and apply in thin layers to let the brick’s texture show through, creating a soft, rustic finish.

German Smear

Create a rustic, aged look by applying a mortar mixture over the brick, then scraping off excess to reveal the texture. It adds character, ideal for traditional or farmhouse-style homes.

Whitewash Technique

Whitewashing lightens the brick while highlighting its texture. Mix white paint with water and apply, wiping off excess for a subtle, relaxed finish perfect for rustic or coastal styles.

Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Brick

Here’s a concise guide to ensure your brick painting project goes smoothly:

Step 1: Preparation

Begin by cleaning the brick thoroughly using a wire brush, scraper, or pressure washer. Remove any dirt, dust, or mildew.

If there are cracks or damaged areas, repair them with masonry filler. Allow the surface to dry completely before beginning the painting process for optimal results.

Step 2: Applying Primer

Primer is essential for ensuring proper paint adhesion to the brick surface. Apply a masonry-specific primer to create a strong bond between the paint and the brick.

Use a brush or roller to cover the entire surface evenly, and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 3: Painting the Surface

Once the primer is dry, you can begin painting. Use a high-quality exterior paint, applying it with a brush for detailed areas and a roller for large surfaces.

For even coverage, start at the top and work your way down. A paint sprayer can also be used for faster application.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

To achieve a smooth, uniform finish, apply additional coats as needed. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next.

Sand lightly between coats for an extra-smooth finish, and touch up edges or spots that may have been missed. This ensures a professional-looking result.

Maintenance and Care for Painted Brick

Keeping your painted brick looking fresh doesn’t take much, just a bit of routine care. With the right maintenance steps, you can extend the life of your paint and protect your brick from damage.

• Gentle Cleaning: Use mild soap and a soft-bristle brush to remove dirt and grime without damaging the paint.
• Consistent Touch-Ups: Cover chips or scuffs with the same paint to keep the color even and the surface smooth.
• Sunlight Protection: Try to limit prolonged sun exposure where possible to reduce fading over time.
• Moisture Sealing: Apply a masonry sealer every 2–3 years to guard against moisture and keep the paint from peeling.

A little attention now and then can go a long way in keeping your painted brick looking clean, vibrant, and well-protected.

Conclusion

Painting brick is one of the easiest ways I’ve found to refresh a space and add personality without a full remodel. Now that you’ve learned about paint types, techniques, color choices, and care tips, you’re ready to move forward with confidence.

If you love bold accents or prefer a soft, subtle vibe, there are plenty of brick painting ideas that can bring your vision to life. Just don’t forget, good prep and regular upkeep go a long way in keeping that fresh look lasting.

Looking for more inspiration? Keep reading other blogs for simple home projects, color inspiration, and unique finishes.