When it comes to home design, nothing makes a statement quite like the exterior. And if your home has brick, you already have a strong foundation for curb appeal. But here’s the secret: choosing the right house exterior brick paint color ideas can completely transform your home’s personality. Whether you’re restoring a historic gem, updating a mid-century ranch, or giving a suburban colonial new life, the right brick and paint color combination can work wonders.
The beauty of brick is its versatility. Pair it with timeless neutrals for a classic look, or push boundaries with bold colors that showcase your personality. Below, we’ll dive into how to choose the right palette, explore stunning examples, and walk through what you should know before lifting a paintbrush.
How to Choose the Right Brick and Paint Color
Consider Your Brick’s Natural Tone
Every brick has its own undertone. Red, tan, blond, or gray bricks each behave differently when paired with paint. For example:
- Red brick pairs beautifully with crisp white trim and black shutters for a timeless look.
- Tan or blond brick benefits from contrast—deep navy doors or hunter green trim add sophistication.
- Gray brick comes alive with warm wood accents and white trim.
By identifying your brick’s base color, you’ll narrow down options that complement rather than clash.
Factor in Climate and Lighting
Colors look different depending on natural light. A shade that feels soft gray in the shade may appear almost white under direct sun. Cooler climates with less sunlight may benefit from warmer hues to keep the home from looking cold, while bright sunny locations often suit off-whites, beige, or even bold shades that won’t be washed out.
Style of Your Home
Architecture plays a huge role in what works. Tudor Revival homes look stunning with two-tone brick treatments. Mid-century ranches thrive with contrast doors in turquoise or mustard yellow. Modern farmhouses often lean toward all-white brick with black trim for clean, contemporary appeal.
Maintenance Considerations
Here’s the truth: painting brick isn’t always reversible. Once painted, it requires upkeep because it can chip, fade, and weather over time. Alternatives like limewash or German schmear offer a softer, textured look with lower maintenance. If you love flexibility, consider those before committing to solid paint.
Popular House Exterior Brick Paint Color Ideas
Let’s get into the fun part—specific combinations and why they work.
Classic and Timeless Palettes
- Red Brick + White Trim + Black Shutters: A colonial-style favorite that never goes out of style.
- White Brick + Black Trim: Chic, minimalist, and elegant. Adds drama while keeping a clean frame.
- Tan Brick + White Trim + Navy Door: The perfect way to elevate a neutral home with a pop of color.
Modern Neutral Looks
- Gray Brick + White Trim: Creates a sleek, contemporary feel, especially on ranch or modern-style homes.
- All-White Brick Exteriors: A trend that’s still strong. Pairs beautifully with wood accents or greenery.
- Black Brick with Gray Siding: Bold and moody—ideal for homeowners wanting to make a statement.
Bold Statement Choices
- White Brick + Pink Door: Cheerful and welcoming, perfect for a family-friendly vibe.
- Red Brick + Yellow Trim: Unexpected but beautiful on Victorian-style homes with ornate detailing.
- Dark Blue Trim on Red Brick: Modern yet respectful to traditional Tudor designs.
Earthy and Natural Palettes
- Red Brick + Sage + Cream: Perfect for bungalow-style homes where you want a grounded, organic look.
- Tan Brick + Dark Green Trim: Enhances a natural setting and blends beautifully with landscaping.
- Greige Brick + White Accents: The ultimate neutral palette for a modern but warm home exterior.
Trending Painted Brick Colors and Finishes
Design trends shift, but some colors remain consistently popular for painted brick homes.
All-White Exteriors
White-painted brick homes have surged in popularity. They create a fresh canvas that allows other elements—like landscaping, shutters, or doors—to shine. Off-whites like Sherwin Williams’ Alabaster or Benjamin Moore’s Seapearl are excellent choices that prevent the exterior from feeling too stark.
Dark and Moody Tones
Charcoal, navy, and even black-painted brick homes are having their moment. These hues feel bold, modern, and confident. A house painted in Sherwin Williams’ Iron Ore or Benjamin Moore’s Wrought Iron stands out dramatically while staying sophisticated.
Soft Neutrals
Greige, taupe, and dove gray strike a balance between modern and timeless. They pair beautifully with natural wood doors or copper accents. Neutrals also tend to age gracefully, making them a safer long-term investment.
Before You Paint: Preparation Tips
Painting brick is a commitment, so preparation is essential.
- Clean Thoroughly – Power wash the brick to remove dirt, moss, or debris.
- Repair Mortar – Fill in cracks with exterior-grade caulk or mortar repair products.
- Test Colors First – Paint samples on boards and view them in sunlight, shade, and at night.
- Prime for Longevity – A breathable masonry primer ensures paint adheres properly and prevents trapped moisture.
- Choose the Right Tools – A paint sprayer speeds up coverage on large homes, while rollers and brushes are fine for smaller projects.
Inspirational House Exterior Brick Paint Color Ideas
Here are some real-life applications to spark your imagination:
- Two-Tone Brick Tudor Revival: White-painted brick body with untouched red brick accents around windows.
- Contemporary White Brick with Gray Trim: Modern steel gray windows transform a dated ranch.
- Historic Victorian with Yellow Trim: Red brick base paired with sunshine-yellow accents for whimsical charm.
- Farmhouse Chic: Whitewashed brick with black shutters and a wooden front door.
- Modern Minimalism: Deep charcoal brick with black trim, no shutters, and streamlined landscaping.
Final Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Brick Paint Color
When narrowing down your house exterior brick paint color ideas, think long-term. Will you still love it in 5 or 10 years? Does it fit your neighborhood? Does it enhance your landscaping?
Sometimes, it helps to start small. Try painting just the trim, shutters, or front door before tackling the entire brick surface. This allows you to test your comfort level with color while still boosting curb appeal.
Remember, your home’s exterior is its first impression. By thoughtfully selecting paint colors for your brick, you’ll not only boost curb appeal but also add value and personality that reflects you.
