What Color to Paint Brick: A Design-Forward Guide to Choosing the Right Hue

When it comes to transforming a brick surface—whether it’s the exterior of a home, a fireplace, or an accent wall—the first question that arises is, what color should I paint it? Unlike drywall or siding, brick has texture, depth, and a natural character that responds uniquely to paint. The right color can highlight its charm; the wrong one can flatten its personality.

What Color to Paint Brick

So, how do you choose a color that elevates the structure without overpowering it?

Let’s dig deep into this choice, one that merges aesthetic instinct with architectural awareness.

1. Consider the Style of Your Home

Not every brick house or wall should be white. Traditional colonials, modern farmhouses, mid-century bungalows—each carries its own architectural language. The paint color you choose should fluently “speak” that dialect.

• Classic Homes: Think off-whites, warm taupes, or charcoal grays. These honor the traditional bones while offering a modern refresh.
• Contemporary Builds: Crisp black, slate blue, or even bold forest green can add dimension and edge.
• Cottage or Craftsman Styles: Sage greens, creamy beiges, and muted blues feel rooted and inviting.

Your brick may be old, but your palette doesn’t have to be dated.

2. Account for Lighting and Environment

Natural lighting plays a huge role in how a paint color looks on brick. What appears soft ivory in the morning light can turn stark under the harsh midday sun.

• Sun-drenched exteriors: Opt for softer shades like warm gray, greige, or ivory to avoid glare.
• Shaded areas: Deep navy, olive green, or even burgundy can create cozy depth and richness.

Don’t forget your landscaping and surroundings. A house wrapped in trees? Earth tones blend beautifully. A stark, urban setting? Contrasting shades can make a strong, clean statement.

3. Embrace Texture, Don’t Hide It

Brick isn’t a flat surface, so paint interacts with it differently than on wood or drywall. Thin layers of paint preserve the dimensionality of the brick, while thick coats can erase its natural character.

That’s why many designers recommend whitewashing or limewashing over full opacity paints for a more organic, breathable finish. These techniques allow the brick’s detail to remain visible, while still refreshing the tone.

4. Trending Colors for Painted Brick (But Make It Timeless)

While trends evolve, some shades consistently perform well across decades:

• Warm White: Classic, versatile, and brightening without being sterile.
• Charcoal or Soft Black: Striking, bold, and sophisticated—great for modern homes.
• Muted Olive or Sage: Especially popular with cottage or rustic styles, these tones feel grounded and earthy.
• Greige (Gray + Beige): A favorite neutral that works with both warm and cool trim colors.
• Dusty Blue or Navy: Moody yet inviting; pairs well with brass, copper, and wood accents.

While Pinterest might push bold teal this year, consider your neighborhood, climate, and resale value. The goal isn’t to stand out like a sore thumb—but to subtly impress.

5. Don’t Forget the Trim

Painting brick is only one piece of the visual puzzle. The trim color can either complement or clash with your chosen brick hue.

• White brick + Black trim = Timeless contrast
• Gray brick + Wood-toned trim = Warm, contemporary style
• Beige brick + Cream trim = Soft, elegant look

Use color harmony principles, but don’t be afraid to add personality.

Final Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Color, It’s About Character

When deciding what color to paint brick, you’re not just updating a surface—you’re reshaping the visual identity of your space. Take time to test swatches. View them at different times of day. Think about emotion as much as aesthetics. The right color can make your home feel fresh, refined, and undeniably yours.

Pro Tip: Always Use Masonry-Specific Paint

Regular paint might work temporarily, but over time it can peel, bubble, or trap moisture. A breathable masonry paint allows brick to release moisture naturally—protecting both aesthetics and structure.