Brick Wall Paint Colours

Brick Wall Paint Colours: A Comprehensive Guide

Exposed brick walls, whether original to a building or added as a design feature, bring character and warmth to interior spaces. However, incorporating exposed brick into a design scheme requires careful consideration, particularly when it comes to selecting paint colours for the surrounding walls. The right paint colour can complement the brick’s natural tones, enhance its texture, and create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. This article provides an overview of considerations when choosing paint colours to pair with brick, offering specific colour suggestions and design tips.

Understanding Brick Tones and Textures

Before selecting a paint colour, it is crucial to analyze the brick itself. Brick varies significantly in colour, ranging from deep reds and browns to lighter oranges, pinks, and even greyish hues. The dominant colour tone will influence the best paint colour choices. Furthermore, the texture of the brick plays a critical role. Smooth, uniformly coloured brick might allow for more adventurous paint colours, while highly textured or multi-toned brick may necessitate a more neutral and understated approach. Natural light exposure within the room is also a factor; a room with limited natural light might benefit from brighter, warmer paint colours, whereas a brightly lit room might accommodate cooler tones.

Paying attention to the mortar colour is also essential. The mortar lines, the spaces between the bricks, can significantly impact the overall brick wall aesthetic. Lighter mortar can create a more visually busy effect, while darker mortar can make the brick appear more uniform. Consider how the mortar colour interacts with the brick when choosing a complementing paint colour.

Neutral Paint Colours for Versatility and Balance

Neutral paint colours are often the safest and most versatile option for pairing with exposed brick. They provide a backdrop that allows the brick’s natural beauty to shine without competing for attention. Within the neutral spectrum, there are numerous shades that can work effectively.

Off-whites and creams are excellent choices for achieving a clean and airy feel. These colours reflect light effectively, making them ideal for smaller rooms or spaces with limited natural light. They also complement a wide range of brick colours, from warm reds to cooler greys. When selecting an off-white or cream, consider the undertones. A warm off-white with yellow or beige undertones can enhance the warmth of red brick, while a cooler off-white with grey undertones can balance the intensity of orange or reddish-brown brick.

Greys, ranging from light greys to deeper charcoal tones, offer a sophisticated and contemporary look. Light greys can create a calming and serene atmosphere, while darker greys can add drama and depth. When pairing grey with brick, consider the brick's undertones. Warmer brick tones often pair well with greys that have a hint of warmth, such as "greige" (a blend of grey and beige). Cooler greys can work well with brick that has grey or brown undertones.

Beiges and taupes provide a warm and earthy feel. These colours work particularly well with brick that has reddish-brown or orange tones, creating a cohesive and inviting space. Beiges and taupes with subtle undertones of green or yellow can enhance the natural warmth of the brick. Avoid beiges that are too yellow, as they may clash with the brick's natural colour.

Consider the sheen of the neutral paint. Matte or eggshell finishes are generally preferred for walls surrounding exposed brick because they minimize reflections and allow the brick's texture to stand out. Glossier finishes can draw attention away from the brick and highlight imperfections in the wall.

Strategic Use of Colour to Complement Brick

While neutral paint colours offer versatility, strategic use of colour can create a more personalized and visually engaging space. When selecting a colour, consider the desired mood and the overall aesthetic of the room.

For Brick with Red Tones: *

Olive Green:

Olive green provides a contrasting yet complementary colour to red brick. The natural, earthy tones of olive green create a harmonious and balanced feel. *

Deep Blue:

Deep blues, such as navy or indigo, can create a striking contrast with red brick. These colours add a touch of sophistication and drama to the space. *

Mustard Yellow:

Mustard yellow can enhance the warmth of red brick, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Use mustard yellow sparingly, as it can be quite bold.

For Brick with Brown Tones: *

Teal:

Teal provides a refreshing contrast with brown brick. This colour adds a touch of vibrancy and energy to the space. *

Creamy White:

As mentioned earlier, creamy white is always a safe bet. It works well with almost all bricks and especially well with brown bricks. *

Light Grey-Blue:

A light grey-blue offers a subtle contrast and creates a calming and serene atmosphere.

For Brick with Orange Tones: *

Cool Grey:

Cool greys balance the warmth of orange brick, creating a sophisticated and modern look. *

Sage Green:

Sage green provides a soothing and natural contrast with orange brick. This colour adds a touch of tranquility to the space. *

White with Grey Undertones:

Helps tone down the orange while keeping the room feeling bright and airy.

For Brick with Grey Tones: *

Warm White:

Warm whites paired with grey bricks increase the feeling of warmth of the room while still keeping it clean and airy. *

Pale Yellow:

Pale yellows can brighten the room and add a cheerful touch to a room dominated by grey bricks. *

Light Pink:

If a modern touch is required, a light pink can make for a surprising and charming combination.

When using colour, consider the scale of the room and the amount of natural light. Smaller rooms with limited natural light might benefit from lighter and brighter colours, while larger rooms with ample natural light can accommodate bolder and deeper hues. Use colour strategically as an accent, such as on a single wall or in decorative elements, can add visual interest without overwhelming the space. Colour samples are always a good idea to see how they look under various lights and to ensure they complement the brick.

Design Considerations and Finishing Touches

Beyond paint colour, several design considerations contribute to a successful integration of exposed brick into an interior space. Furniture selection, lighting, and accessories all play a role in creating a harmonious and balanced aesthetic.

Furniture should complement both the brick and the paint colour. Natural materials, such as wood and leather, often pair well with exposed brick, enhancing the natural and organic feel of the space. Consider the style of the furniture and how it relates to the overall design aesthetic. Modern furniture can create a striking contrast with rustic brick, while more traditional furniture can enhance the warmth and charm of the space.

Lighting is crucial for highlighting the texture and colour of the brick. Accent lighting, such as spotlights or track lighting, can be used to draw attention to specific areas of the brick wall. Warm lighting can enhance the warmth of red or brown brick, while cooler lighting can complement grey or orange brick. Natural light is also important; ensure that windows are not obstructed and that the space receives ample daylight.

Accessories can add personality and visual interest to the space. Artwork, plants, and textiles can be used to complement the brick and paint colour. Consider the colour palette and style of the accessories when making selections. Natural materials, such as wood, stone, and metal, often pair well with exposed brick. Greenery can add a touch of life and freshness to the space, while artwork can provide a focal point and add visual interest.

Finally, consider the overall design style of the room. Exposed brick can be incorporated into a variety of design styles, from rustic and industrial to modern and minimalist. Ensure that the paint colour, furniture, lighting, and accessories are consistent with the overall design aesthetic. A cohesive and well-planned design will create a harmonious and inviting space that showcases the beauty of exposed brick.