Red brick is a timeless, durable, and texture-rich material that adds instant character to a home. Unlike siding, which can be easily changed, brick is a permanent fixture. The goal when choosing paint colors for your trim, shutters, and doors is to complement the masonry rather than compete with it.
Quick Answer: Let Brick Be the Star, Paint Should Support It
The golden rule for red brick homes is to treat the brick as your “anchor” color. Because red is a dominant, high-energy hue, your paint colors should act as a supporting cast. The most successful palettes use neutrals that either soften the red or provide a sophisticated contrast that makes the brickwork look more intentional and modern.
Why brick undertones matter
Not all “red” brick is just red. Most bricks have subtle undertones that dictate which paint colors will work best:
- Orange/Yellow Undertones: These bricks look “warm” and pair best with creams, tans, and warm greens.
- Purple/Blue Undertones: These bricks look “cool” or “burgundy” and pair well with grays, charcoals, and crisp whites.
- Pink/Salmon Undertones: These require very soft, muted neutrals like taupe or “greige” to avoid looking dated.
Best Paint Colors for Homes With Red Brick
Choosing the right body or accent color can transition a brick home from looking “traditional” to “designer.”
Warm whites and creams
Bright, sterile whites can often make red brick look too harsh or “patriotic.” Instead, opt for warm whites, creams, or vanilla tones. These shades soften the contrast and create a classic, welcoming aesthetic that feels high-end and clean.
Greige and taupe
Greige (the perfect mix of gray and beige) is the “secret weapon” for red brick. It picks up on the mortar color, which creates a cohesive look across the entire facade. Taupe also works beautifully to ground the house, offering a more contemporary feel than standard tan or brown.
Charcoal and deep neutrals
For a bold, modern look, deep charcoal or “iron” grays are stunning against red brick. The dark pigment makes the red of the brick appear more vibrant and saturated. This is a popular choice for gables, shutters, and front doors in modern industrial or updated traditional designs.
Choosing Trim Colors for Brick Homes
The trim serves as the transition between the brick and the sky or the surrounding landscape.
Light vs dark trim
- Light Trim (Cream/Off-White): Creates a “framed” look that highlights the architectural lines of the house. It is the safest choice for maintaining resale value.
- Dark Trim (Bronze/Black/Charcoal): Gives the home a modern, “custom-built” edge. Dark window frames are particularly popular right now as they provide a sophisticated “pop” against red masonry.
Window and door contrast
Your front door is the best place to introduce a third color. For red brick, consider:
- Navy Blue: A classic companion to red.
- Sage or Olive Green: Creates a natural, earthy harmony.
- Black: For a sharp, upscale finish.
Modern vs Traditional Brick Color Palettes
Updated neutral looks
To modernize a brick home, simplify the palette. Use one color for the trim, shutters, and siding (if any). A monochromatic “greige” or “soft charcoal” scheme allows the natural variation in the brick to provide the visual interest.
Timeless classic schemes
The traditional approach often involves “Swiss Coffee” white trim with black shutters and a red or black door. This look never goes out of style and works exceptionally well on Colonial and Georgian-style homes.
FAQs
Should brick houses be painted?
Painting brick (or “whitewashing”) is a major trend, but it is a permanent decision. Before painting, consider that brick is low-maintenance; once painted, it will require repainting every 5-10 years. If you want a change, try painting the trim and accents first!
What exterior colors make brick look modern?
Dark grays, matte blacks, and “urban” taupes are the best colors to modernize brick. Avoiding “dated” colors like cream-yellow or forest green will instantly take years off the home’s appearance.
Can brick clash with cool gray paint?
Yes. If you use a very “blue-toned” gray against a very “orange-toned” brick, they will fight each other. Always look for grays with a hint of warmth (brown/yellow) to ensure the colors speak the same “language.”
Need to see these colors in action? Use our digital visualizer to upload a photo of your brick home and test different color combinations instantly!