Step-by-Step Guide to a Mid-Century Modern Exterior

I’ve always liked the classic look of red brick, but I know it can sometimes make a house feel dated.

If you’ve been wondering how to make a red brick house look modern, you’re not alone in wanting a fresh update.

I’ll show you the color schemes, upgrades, and design tricks that can bring out the best in your brick. You’ll see options that fit small budgets and bigger projects, along with tips for keeping everything looking great year-round.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to update your red brick home in a way that feels modern and still true to you

Why Red Brick Homes Can Look Outdated

Red brick homes often look dated because many were built decades ago with traditional design features like small windows, heavy trim, and dark roofing.

Over time, these details can make the exterior appear heavy or mismatched with current design trends.

Updating your home’s exterior adds attraction and helps it stand out in the neighborhood.

Modern changes also improve resale value, giving potential buyers a fresh look instead of a worn one, much like the before-and-after results from a 1960s ranch remodel that show how updates completely reshape art.

Practical Exterior Upgrade

Follow simple, structured updates that balance style and function. Each option offers a clear path to modernize your red brick home.

Accent-Only Updates

Step 1: Replace Shutters or Doors. New shutters or doors instantly refresh the entry and add attraction.

Step 2: Update Lighting and House Numbers. Sleek lighting and modern numbers provide a fresh look and practical visibility.

Step 3: Refresh Landscaping. Structured plants and pathways highlight the brick while creating a clean, modern appearance.

Limewashing or Whitewashing Brick

Step 1: Clean the Brick. Pressure wash or scrub the brick to ensure proper adhesion of the finish.

Step 2: Apply Wash Evenly. Spread limewash or whitewash thinly, brightening brick while letting texture remain visible.

Step 3: Seal if Needed. A masonry sealer protects the finish and extends durability against harsh weather.

Full Brick Painting

Step 1: Wash and Prep. Clean thoroughly to remove dirt, ensuring smooth and long-lasting paint coverage.

Step 2: Prime with Masonry Primer. Primer strengthens adhesion, prevents peeling, and prepares brick for exterior paint.

Step 3: Apply Exterior Paint. Use masonry paint in thin coats for an even, modern transformation.

Step 4: Seal for Durability. Finish with a sealer to protect against moisture, fading, and weather damage.

Best Modern Color Schemes for Red Brick

The right color scheme softens red brick while adding balance. Neutral, bold, and trendy choices create a modern cover-up.

Neutral Pairings (White, Beige, Gray)

Neutral shades give red brick a timeless balance. White trim brightens and sharpens the exterior, while beige or gray tones add warmth without clashing.

These choices create a calm, updated look that works with both traditional and modern homes. Neutral pairings are versatile and easy to maintain, making them a safe option if you want subtle updates that still feel fresh.

Bold Accents (Black, Navy, Forest Green)

Strong accent colors bring contrast to red brick, instantly modernizing the exterior.

Black frames or doors create a sleek, contemporary finish, while navy and forest green add depth without overwhelming the brick. These bold accents highlight architectural features like windows and entryways.

Pairing them with lighter trim balances the design, ensuring the house feels inviting. Bold colors are ideal when you want your home to stand out while maintaining a polished, sophisticated style.

Trendy Options (Sage Green, Warm Taupe, Charcoal)

Trendy shades update red brick by adding a modern edge. Sage green feels fresh and natural, blending beautifully with landscaping.

Warm taupe softens the brick’s intensity, while charcoal gives a dramatic, high-contrast finish.

These colors reflect today’s design preferences without straying too far from classic styles.

They allow you to experiment with personality while keeping your home appealing for resale. Choosing a trendy palette is an easy way to refresh your home’s exterior.

Using AI Tools to Test Color Ideas

One of the easiest ways to avoid second-guessing your color choices is by using AI tools that preview home exteriors.

Apps like Home Design 3D, Cedreo, and Hover Design Studio let you upload a photo of your house and instantly try different siding and paint combinations.

You’ll see how beige trim, bold navy doors, or a full limewash would actually look before you commit.

These tools save time, reduce costly mistakes, and give you confidence that your chosen palette will complement red brick.

Many homeowners find them especially helpful when narrowing down between neutral, bold, and trendy options.

It’s no surprise that apps to help visualize siding and paint combinations with AI are becoming the go-to method for planning updates.

Non-Paint Modernization Ideas

You can update a red brick home without painting. Simple design improvements create modern appeal while preserving the brick’s natural look.

Black-Framed Windows

Black-framed windows instantly modernize red brick exteriors by adding bold contrast. They draw attention to the home’s structure while offering a clean, sharp finish.

This upgrade works well with both traditional and contemporary designs, giving your home a fresh, architectural edge without altering the original brickwork.

Sleek Garage and Front Doors

Modern garage and front doors make a powerful statement. Choose streamlined designs with glass panels or matte finishes to replace outdated models.

A sleek front entry boosts attraction, while a stylish garage door adds balance. Together, these updates bring fresh character without touching the brick itself.

Modern Lighting Fixtures

Lighting changes the mood of your exterior. Sleek wall sconces, overhead fixtures, or pathway lights provide both function and style.

Modern lighting highlights architectural details, adds safety, and creates a warm welcome. This simple change is cost-effective and instantly styles your home’s nighttime appearance without altering the brick.

Landscaping for Clean Lines

Landscaping plays a major role in modern cover-up. Replace overgrown bushes with structured plants, ornamental grasses, or geometric flower beds.

Add stone pathways and minimal edging to create a clean, balanced look. Updating landscaping emphasizes the home’s shape, bringing harmony between the yard and red brick exterior.

Cost Breakdown of Exterior Updates

Understanding costs helps you plan upgrades wisely. From budget-friendly accents to premium renovations, each option offers a different impact and investment.

Upgrade Type	Cost Level	What’s Included	Best For
Accent-Only Upgrades (shutters, doors, landscaping)	Budget-friendly	Simple replacements and yard refresh	Quick curb appeal on a small budget
Limewash/Whitewash	Moderate	Surface prep, wash application, optional sealing	Soft, natural finish without hiding brick texture
Full Brick Painting	Mid to high	Power wash, primer, exterior paint, sealant	Bold transformation with long-lasting coverage
Full Exterior Renovation (windows, doors, roofing)	Premium	New fixtures, structural updates, full redesign	Complete makeover for maximum attraction

Seasonal & Maintenance Tips

Proper upkeep protects updates and preserves curb appeal. Each finish requires different care, especially in changing seasonal conditions.

• Painted Brick: Touch up chips, reseal every 8–10 years, and watch for peeling in humid or rainy climates.
• Limewash/Whitewash: Expect gradual fading; reapply when the surface looks uneven or thin, especially after harsh winters.
• Natural Brick with Accents: Requires minimal upkeep; occasional cleaning with mild soap keeps it fresh.
• Weather Considerations: Freezing climates may stress painted surfaces, while hot regions may fade bold colors faster.

Conclusion

When I look at red brick homes that have been updated, the difference is always striking. Your house has the same potential; you just need the right approach.

If you choose a new trim color, fresh landscaping, or a bigger project like painting, you can give your home a lasting attraction.

I’ve shared ideas that balance cost, style, and maintenance so you can pick what works best for you. With a little planning, your brick can feel modern while still keeping its character.

If you want more inspiration on how to make a red brick house look modern, I’d love for you to check out my other blogs.