Red brick is bold, warm, and packed with personality. Whether it’s your home’s exterior, an accent wall inside, or a classic fireplace, it naturally draws the eye. But when it comes to pairing paint with red brick? That’s where things can get… tricky. Choose the wrong shade, and it fights with the brick. Pick the right one, and it elevates the whole space.
So, the million-dollar question: what paint goes with red brick?
The short answer: it depends. Red brick itself isn’t uniform—some lean brown or rusty, others are orange or burgundy. But don’t worry—there are tried-and-true color palettes that work with virtually every shade. Let’s dive in.
1. Creams and Warm Whites: A Soft Backdrop
Want to highlight your brick without overwhelming it? Warm whites and creams are your best friends. They brighten the space and let the brick shine as the star of the show.
Great picks: Alabaster, Swiss Coffee, White Dove
Why it works: Subtle yellow or beige undertones harmonize with the warmth of red brick.
Pro tip: Avoid stark or blue-toned whites—they can make your brick look oddly orange.
2. Earthy Greens: Nature’s Perfect Complement
Green and red are opposites on the color wheel, which means they naturally complement each other. But skip the neon grass green—opt for muted, earthy tones like sage, olive, or moss.
Try: Rosemary, Clary Sage, Evergreen Fog
Best for: Front doors, shutters, accent walls, or cabinetry near brick features
These shades create a calm, grounded look that feels organic and welcoming.
3. Cool and Charcoal Greys: Sleek Modern Contrast
Red brick is classic; grey adds balance. Cool greys can modernize the brick without erasing its character. Perfect for a cozy modern farmhouse or industrial-chic vibe.
Ideal tones: Repose Gray, Kendall Charcoal, Peppercorn
Where to use: Trim, siding, garage doors, or living room walls near brick fireplaces
Tip: Avoid blue-toned greys—they can clash with the brick’s warmth.
4. Navy and Deep Blue: Rich, Moody Elegance
For a bolder statement, deep blues like navy or indigo bring drama and sophistication. Used sparingly, these shades elevate brick rather than make it feel rustic.
Think: Hale Navy, Naval, Inkwell
Perfect for: Statement walls, entry doors, or formal dining spaces
Works especially well with bricks leaning toward burgundy or cooler red tones.
5. Taupes and Greiges: The Middle Ground
Not beige, not grey—greige is a versatile neutral that bridges modern and traditional styles.
Try: Edgecomb Gray, Agreeable Gray, Pale Oak
Why it works: Adapts to different lighting and complements the brick without competing for attention
Ideal for transitional spaces where red brick is present but not dominant.
What Paint Doesn’t Work Well with Red Brick
- Pure black or bright white: Too stark; it overwhelms the brick
- Pastels: Soft pinks, baby blues, and lavenders often clash with the brick’s boldness
- Bold primaries: Fire-engine red or lemon yellow can compete with your brick rather than complement it
Exterior vs. Interior Pairings
Exterior: Stick to mid-tones and neutrals that can handle sunlight, shadows, and weathering.
Interior: You have more flexibility. Consider lighting, flooring, and surrounding furnishings. A fireplace wall might benefit from cozy, grounding tones, while an entryway might shine with brighter, more open colors.
Read More : What Colour Paint Goes with Red Brick?
Pro Tips Before You Choose
- Test swatches in both natural and artificial light
- Compare colors against the mortar, not just the brick
- Take surrounding finishes into account—roofing, flooring, furnishings
- Remember: paint doesn’t exist in a vacuum; every shade behaves differently depending on context
Red brick has personality—your paint should enhance it, not fight it. Pick thoughtfully, and your brick will look like the masterpiece it was meant to be.
