Red brick—rich, warm, full of character—brings undeniable charm to both interiors and exteriors. But when it comes time to pair it with paint, many homeowners pause. It’s not always as simple as grabbing a neutral swatch and hoping for the best. You might find yourself asking, what colour paint goes with red brick?
The answer depends on context, undertones, lighting, and—perhaps most importantly—your desired aesthetic. Let’s unpack the nuance.
Understanding Red Brick’s Natural Tones
First, not all red bricks are created equal. Some lean toward warm, earthy terracotta. Others have deeper burgundy or even brownish hues. Before choosing a paint colour, examine the brick closely. Are there flecks of black? Undertones of orange or purple? Identifying these subtleties can help you avoid clashing tones and instead create visual harmony.
Timeless Paint Colours That Complement Red Brick
1. Creamy Whites and Soft Off-Whites
Nothing balances the richness of red brick quite like a soft, warm white. Avoid stark, clinical whites—they tend to feel too modern and may contrast harshly with traditional brick. Instead, opt for shades with beige or ivory undertones. These create a warm, inviting backdrop that enhances rather than competes with the brick’s character.
Example pairings:
- Alabaster
- Swiss Coffee
- Natural Linen
2. Greige and Warm Taupes
For a look that’s grounded yet sophisticated, greige (a blend of grey and beige) is a top contender. It tones down the red without dulling the space and adds a subtle, modern edge. Taupes with warm undertones similarly blend well, making the brick pop without overwhelming the scene.
Greige is especially effective in exteriors—think siding, trim, or even garage doors paired with a red brick facade.
3. Sage Green and Olive Tones
Greens are a classic counterpoint to red because they sit opposite each other on the colour wheel. Sage, olive, and muted eucalyptus tones offer an organic, nature-inspired vibe. These hues soften the boldness of red brick and feel calming, particularly in indoor spaces like living rooms or home offices.
4. Charcoal Grey and Deep Graphite
If you’re after drama and depth, deep greys bring a sleek, contemporary contrast to red brick. Use them on window trim, shutters, or even interior accent walls. Charcoal also works beautifully with older, darker bricks, adding elegance and a slightly industrial flair.
5. Navy Blue and Deep Teal
Bold yet classic. Navy complements the warmth of red brick by introducing a cool balance. It’s particularly effective in entryways, front doors, or kitchen cabinetry. Teal, meanwhile, adds a subtle hint of the unexpected while maintaining a sense of depth and richness.
Choosing Based on Application: Interior vs. Exterior
For Exterior Use:
Your brick likely dominates the visual landscape. In this case, subtlety matters. Stick to muted neutrals for siding, trim, and doors. Avoid overly bright or saturated colours—they can jar the natural earthiness of the brick.
For Interior Use:
You have more freedom. Painted drywall adjacent to a brick feature wall? Go bold or soft, depending on the atmosphere you want to create. Accent colours, layered textures, and lighting all play a role in tying the look together.
What to Avoid
- Cool, stark greys that lack warmth can clash with red brick, creating a sterile feel.
- Bright primary colours (like pure blue or yellow) often compete too aggressively.
- High-gloss finishes can make red brick appear flat or overly artificial by contrast.
Pro Tips for Seamless Colour Pairing
- Always test your colours in natural and artificial light. What looks neutral at noon may lean green by evening.
- Use large swatches, not tiny paint chips. Brick surfaces are expansive; your paint preview should be too.
- Consider undertones. If your red brick has orange flecks, a taupe with pink undertones may clash. Go for harmony, not rivalry.
Read More : Should You Paint a Brick Fireplace?
Final Thoughts
So, what colour paint goes with red brick? There’s no single right answer—only the right one for your space, your light, and your intention. Whether you’re refining curb appeal or reinventing your living room, the key lies in balancing warmth, depth, and character.
Choose thoughtfully. Paint strategically. And let the timeless beauty of red brick do what it does best—anchor the space with texture, history, and soul.
