Finding Your Perfect Match: Brick and Paint
Refreshing your home’s exterior is one of the most exciting ways to boost curb appeal and add personal flair. Whether you’re building from the ground up or giving a classic home a much-needed facelift, the way you pair your brick with paint defines the entire “vibe” of your property. From highlighting the natural, earthy textures of clay to completely modernizing a facade with a fresh coat of color, the right combination creates a cohesive look that you’ll love coming home to every day.
Why the Right Colors Matter
At North Georgia Brick, we like to think of your home’s exterior as a canvas. Brick is famous for its incredible durability and organic beauty, but paint is the secret ingredient that pulls the whole design together. By choosing shades that complement your brick’s specific undertones, you can turn a dated exterior into a contemporary showstopper or lean into a “forever home” look that feels both timeless and fresh.
Pro Paint Tips for a Smooth Refresh
Before you dive into the color swatches, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, remember that natural sunlight is a game-changer; paint usually looks much lighter once it’s on the house, so it’s often better to choose a shade that looks a bit darker on the sample. Always test your favorites on different sides of the house to see how they change from morning to sunset. Finally, try the 60/30/10 rule: let your brick be the main color (60%), a secondary paint for the trim (30%), and a fun accent for the front door (10%). Here are seven of our favorite classic brick and paint combinations for design inspiration!
Rotating & Extruding Brick for Texture
Another great way to add character is to rotate or slightly “pop out” (extrude) specific bricks to create texture on your walls. From subtle vertical lines to diamond shapes, playing with the placement of something like Cambridge brick adds a lot of personality to a home’s exterior. You can also use angled, extruding Nottingham Tudor brick around windows to catch the light and create interesting shadows. It’s a simple way to show that in a custom home, the little details really do matter.
1. Traditional Red Brick and Creamy White
For a look that never goes out of style, you can’t beat red brick paired with creamy white trim. Avoid a stark white, which can look harsh against the clay. Instead, go for a warmer white or light greige to provide a soft contrast. This pairing is the gold standard for a classic look that always feels like home.
2. Modern White Brick and Black Trim
If you want a look that feels both classic and creative, consider a parquet brick pattern. This geometric style looks fantastic when you mix rustic materials, like Ironworks thin brick, with sleek accents like high-gloss tile. A parquet layout is also a wonderful choice for outdoor living areas – it creates an inviting, upscale space that’s perfect for relaxing.
3. Red Brick and Muted Sage Green
Since red and green are opposites on the color wheel, they are natural partners. Choosing a muted sage or an earthy olive green creates a grounded feel—perfect for homes surrounded by nature. This scheme creates an earthy and organic vibe that feels very peaceful.
4. Gray Brick with Zinc and Charcoal
For those who love a modern vibe, try pairing light gray brick with dark zinc accents. This monochromatic approach adds depth and dimension without needing bright colors to stand out. This palette delivers a moody, contemporary aesthetic that feels very high-end.
5. Neutral Tan Brick and Navy Blue
Neutral tan brick can sometimes feel a bit dated, but a saturated navy blue front door or shutters can bring it right into the present. The cool blue tones do a great job of balancing the masonry’s warmth. This combination results in a polished, coastal feel that is instantly refreshing.
6. Red Brick and Deep Blue-Gray
Modernize a Tudor-style home by trading traditional brown trim for a dark blue-gray. This unexpected choice draws the eye to cool architectural details without taking away from the classic beauty of the red brick. This creates an updated Tudor look that feels sophisticated and unique.
7. Red Brick and Bright Yellow Trim
If you want to highlight ornate detailing, try a cheerful yellow against a red brick facade. Using different shades of yellow on the porch trim and front door adds a playful, historic dimension. This bold pairing is perfect for a historic Victorian aesthetic that is full of character.
Get Expert Design and Inspiration at North Georgia Brick
Whether you lean toward a high-contrast, modern look or a muted, organic palette, finding the right brick-and-paint pairing is the fastest way to transform your home. From the timeless charm of red brick and cream to the bold energy of Victorian yellow accents, these combinations prove that the right color can completely redefine your home’s character. For ideas and design inspiration, visit North Georgia Brick’s Pinterest. To find the perfect brick styles to match these classic pairings, visit any one of our showrooms in Cumming, Cartersville, Doraville, Lovejoy, or Newnan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
How can I refresh my home's look without painting the brick?
Focus on updating your window trim, shutters, and porch columns in neutral shades or adding a signature pop of color to your front door.
What colors make red brick look less "orange"?
Look for “cool” neutrals, like grays with blue or green undertones, to help tone down the brick’s warmth.
Why does my paint look different once it’s on the house?
Natural sunlight makes paint appear much lighter outdoors, so it’s usually best to choose a shade that is a bit darker than you initially think.
What is the 60/30/10 rule for exteriors?
It’s a balance guide: 60% of the home is the dominant color (brick), 30% is a secondary color (trim), and 10% is an accent color (front door).
Which paint color best complements tan or blonde brick?
Saturated navy blue is a fantastic choice because the cool blue tones perfectly balance the warmth of tan masonry.
Can I use bright white paint with red brick?
It’s usually better to use a creamy or warm white, as a stark “refrigerator” white can look too harsh against natural clay.
How do I choose colors for a historic Victorian home?
Try using cheerful yellow trim in varying shades to highlight ornate detailing and add energy to a traditional red brick facade.
What is the best way to modernize a Tudor-style home?
Swap out traditional brown paint for a dark blue-gray trim to draw attention to architectural details in a fresh way.
How should I test my paint colors before committing?
YES! Always apply samples to different sides of your home to see how the color shifts throughout the day, from morning to sunset.