Brick accent walls have become increasingly popular in interior design, offering a timeless and versatile aesthetic that can transform any room. Whether you’re looking to add character to a modern space or enhance the rustic charm of your home, brick accent walls provide an excellent solution. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 21 inspiring brick accent wall ideas that will help you create a stunning focal point in your living space.
1. Classic Red Brick Living Room Wall
A classic red brick accent wall in your living room can instantly add warmth and character to the space. The rich, earthy tones of red brick create a cozy atmosphere, perfect for gathering with family and friends. This timeless look pairs well with both modern and traditional furniture, making it a versatile choice for any home.
To enhance the classic red brick look, consider adding floating wooden shelves or a large piece of artwork to break up the expanse of brick. This will create visual interest and prevent the wall from overwhelming the room.
“A red brick accent wall is like a fine wine – it only gets better with age.” – Interior Designer Jane Smith
Pro Tip: To maintain the authentic look of your red brick wall, avoid painting or whitewashing it. Instead, seal the bricks to protect them from dust and moisture while preserving their natural beauty.
2. Whitewashed Brick in the Bedroom
For a softer, more romantic look in the bedroom, consider a whitewashed brick accent wall. This technique involves applying a thin layer of watered-down white paint over the bricks, allowing some of the original colour and texture to show through. The result is a light, airy feel that brightens the room while still maintaining the characteristic charm of exposed brick.
Whitewashed brick pairs beautifully with pastel bedding and light-coloured furniture, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere perfect for rest and rejuvenation.
3. Industrial Loft-Style Kitchen Backdrop
Embrace the industrial aesthetic by incorporating a raw brick accent wall in your kitchen. This look works particularly well in loft-style apartments or homes with high ceilings. The rough texture of exposed brick contrasts nicely with sleek, modern kitchen appliances and stainless steel fixtures.
To complete the industrial look, consider adding open shelving made from reclaimed wood or metal pipes. This will provide functional storage while complementing the rugged appeal of the brick wall.
4. Painted Brick Fireplace Surround
Transform your outdated fireplace into a stunning focal point by painting the surrounding brick. This technique allows you to customize the colour to match your decor while still maintaining the texture and character of the brick. Popular colour choices include crisp white for a clean, modern look, or deep charcoal for a dramatic statement.
When painting brick, be sure to use high-quality masonry paint and apply multiple thin coats for the best coverage and longevity.
5. Exposed Brick Bathroom Feature
Add a touch of unexpected elegance to your bathroom with an exposed brick accent wall. This works particularly well in powder rooms or larger bathrooms with plenty of natural light. The texture of the brick adds depth and interest to the space, while also providing a unique backdrop for mirrors and fixtures.
To protect the brick from moisture, apply a clear sealant designed for use in high-humidity areas. This will help prevent water damage and keep your brick looking beautiful for years to come.
6. Faux Brick Wallpaper for a Budget-Friendly Option
If you love the look of brick but don’t want to commit to the expense or permanence of real brick, consider using faux brick wallpaper. Modern wallpaper technologies have created incredibly realistic brick patterns that can fool even the most discerning eye.
Faux brick wallpaper is an excellent option for renters or those looking for a quick and easy room transformation. It’s also a great way to test out the brick accent wall look before committing to the real thing.
7. Brick Accent Wall with Built-In Shelving
Combine form and function by incorporating built-in shelving into your brick accent wall. This creates a custom look that maximizes storage space while showcasing the beauty of the brick. Use the shelves to display books, artwork, or decorative objects that complement the wall’s texture and colour.
For a cohesive look, paint the shelves in a colour that complements the brick. White shelves pop against red brick, while dark-stained wood can create a rich, elegant feel.
8. Distressed Brick for a Rustic Touch
For homes with a farmhouse or rustic aesthetic, consider a distressed brick accent wall. This look features bricks with chipped edges, faded colours, and an overall weathered appearance. The imperfections add character and depth to the wall, creating a sense of history and charm.
To achieve this look with new bricks, you can use special techniques like sanding, acid washing, or applying a lime wash. If you’re lucky enough to have an original distressed brick in your home, simply clean it gently and seal it to preserve its unique patina.
9. Brick Veneer for a Lighter Alternative
If you love the look of brick but are concerned about the weight or structural requirements, brick veneer is an excellent alternative. These thin slices of real brick can be applied to existing walls, providing the authentic look and texture of full bricks without the added bulk.
Brick veneer is also a great option for upper floors or areas where full brick might be too heavy. It’s easier to install than traditional brick and can be used in a variety of applications, from entire walls to small accent areas.
10. Contrasting Grout for Added Drama
Make your brick accent wall stand out by using contrasting grout. For red or dark-coloured bricks, consider using white or light grey grout to create a striking geometric pattern. Conversely, for light-coloured or whitewashed bricks, dark grout can add depth and definition to the wall.
This technique works particularly well in contemporary or minimalist spaces, where the strong lines created by the contrasting grout can serve as a bold design element.
11. Brick Accent Wall with a Fireplace Insert
Combine the warmth of exposed brick with the coziness of a fireplace by creating a brick accent wall with a fireplace insert. This design not only provides a beautiful focal point but also adds functionality to your living space. The texture of the brick complements the sleek lines of modern fireplace inserts, creating a perfect balance of rustic and contemporary elements.
To enhance this look, consider adding a wooden mantel or floating shelves on either side of the fireplace. This will provide additional visual interest and create opportunities for seasonal decorating.
12. Herringbone Pattern Brick Layout
For a unique twist on the traditional brick wall, consider arranging the bricks in a herringbone pattern. This zigzag design adds visual interest and movement to your accent wall, making it a true statement piece. The herringbone pattern works well with both full-sized bricks and smaller brick tiles, allowing you to customize the look to fit your space.
This pattern is particularly effective in smaller areas, such as a kitchen backsplash or a narrow hallway, where it can create the illusion of more space.
13. Brick Accent Wall with Integrated TV Mount
Create a modern entertainment centre by mounting your TV on a brick accent wall. The texture of the brick provides an interesting backdrop for your screen, while also helping to camouflage cords and mounting hardware. For a sleek look, consider recessing the TV slightly into the wall or using a flush mount.
To complete this look, add floating shelves or a media console below the TV to house components and decor items. The combination of brick and wood or metal creates a pleasing mix of textures and materials.
14. Two-Tone Brick Accent Wall
Add depth and dimension to your space by creating a two-tone brick accent wall. This can be achieved by painting some of the bricks a contrasting colour or by using two different types of brick. For example, you might combine red brick with white-painted brick in a random pattern, or create distinct zones of colour on your wall.
This technique is particularly effective in large rooms or open-concept spaces, where it can help define different areas without the need for physical barriers.
15. Brick Accent Wall in the Home Office
Boost your productivity and add character to your home office with a brick accent wall. The texture and warmth of brick can help create a comfortable yet professional atmosphere, perfect for long workdays or creative sessions. The brick provides an excellent backdrop for video calls and can help absorb sound, improving the acoustics of your workspace.
Pair your brick accent wall with sleek, modern office furniture for a pleasing contrast of textures and styles. Add some greenery with potted plants to soften the look and improve air quality.
16. Brick Archway as an Accent Feature
If you’re looking for a unique way to incorporate brick into your home, consider creating a brick archway between rooms or as part of your entryway. This architectural feature adds character and charm while also defining separate spaces in an open floor plan.
A brick archway can be left in its natural state for a rustic look, or painted to match your existing decor. For added impact, consider installing accent lighting to highlight the texture and shape of the arch.
17. Thin Brick Tiles for a Sleek Look
For a modern take on the traditional brick wall, consider using thin brick tiles. These slender versions of full bricks offer the same texture and visual appeal but with a sleeker profile. Thin brick tiles are perfect for areas where space is at a premium or where the weight of full bricks might be an issue.
This option works particularly well in contemporary or minimalist spaces, where the reduced thickness of the tiles can create a more refined, streamlined look.
18. Brick Accent Wall with Integrated Shelving Nooks
Combine the texture of brick with functional storage by creating an accent wall with integrated shelving nooks. This custom look adds visual interest while providing space for displaying books, artwork, or decorative objects. The contrast between the rough brick and the smooth interior of the nooks creates a pleasing visual dynamic.
For a cohesive look, paint the interior of the nooks in a colour that complements the brick. You can also add lighting within the nooks to create a warm, inviting glow in the evenings.
19. Multicolored Brick for a Playful Touch
Add a pop of colour and personality to your space with a multicoloured brick accent wall. This look can be achieved by using bricks of varying natural colours or by painting individual bricks in a range of hues. The result is a vibrant, eye-catching wall that becomes a true focal point in your room.
This style works particularly well in children’s rooms, creative spaces, or any area where you want to inject a sense of fun and energy. Balance the bold wall with neutral furniture and decor to prevent the space from feeling overwhelming.
20. Brick Accent Wall with a Green Living Wall
Combine the urban appeal of exposed brick with the freshness of nature by pairing your brick accent wall with a green living wall. This combination creates a striking contrast of textures and colours, bringing the outdoors inside in a unique and stylish way.
The living wall can be as simple as a few wall-mounted planters or as complex as a full vertical garden system. Choose plants that thrive in indoor conditions and complement the colour of your brick for the best results.
21. Glossy Glazed Brick for a Modern Twist
For a contemporary take on the brick accent wall, consider using glossy glazed bricks. These bricks feature a smooth, reflective surface that adds a touch of elegance and modernity to your space. Available in a range of colours, glazed bricks can be used to create a subtle sheen or a bold, colourful statement.
This option works particularly well in kitchens and bathrooms, where the glossy finish is easy to clean and can help reflect light, making the space feel brighter and more open.
Conclusion
Brick accent walls offer a versatile and timeless way to add character and warmth to any room in your home. Whether you prefer the classic look of exposed red brick, the softness of whitewashed brick, or the modern appeal of painted or glazed brick, there’s an option to suit every style and budget. By incorporating one of these 21 ideas, you can transform your space and create a stunning focal point that will be admired for years to come.
Remember to consider the overall style of your home, the function of the room, and your personal preferences when choosing a brick accent wall design. With careful planning and execution, your brick accent wall will become a beloved feature that adds value and beauty to your home.
| Brick Accent Wall Style | Best Suited For | Maintenance Level |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Red Brick | Living Rooms, Dens | Low |
| Whitewashed Brick | Bedrooms, Kitchens | Medium |
| Painted Brick | Any Room | Medium |
| Faux Brick Wallpaper | Rentals, Quick Updates | Low |
| Distressed Brick | Rustic, Farmhouse Styles | Low |
| Glazed Brick | Modern, Contemporary Spaces | Low |
Additional Resources:
By incorporating these ideas and resources, you can create a stunning brick accent wall that will elevate the style and character of your home. Whether you choose a classic exposed brick look or opt for a more modern interpretation, your brick accent wall is sure to become a beloved feature that adds warmth and personality to your living space.