Exterior Paint Colors For Red Brick House

Exterior Paint Colors for Red Brick Houses

Red brick houses exude classic charm and timeless appeal. Choosing the right exterior paint colors can enhance this inherent beauty, creating a harmonious and visually appealing aesthetic. Whether aiming for a traditional, modern, or eclectic look, understanding the interplay of color with red brick is crucial.

One of the most important considerations when selecting exterior paint colors is the undertone of the brick. Red brick isn't simply red; it can range from warm, orange-tinged hues to cooler, brown-based shades. Identifying the undertone allows for a more cohesive color palette. For example, bricks with warm undertones pair well with creamy whites, beiges, and warm grays, while cooler-toned bricks complement cool grays, blues, and greens.

White is a perpetually popular choice for red brick houses. Its clean, crisp appearance provides a striking contrast against the brick, emphasizing its texture and color variations. The specific shade of white, however, should be chosen carefully. A stark white can appear overly bright against certain brick tones, while a creamy white can create a softer, more inviting feel. Testing various shades of white against the brick is recommended to determine the best match.

Gray is another versatile option that offers a more contemporary feel. Light to medium grays can create a sophisticated and understated look, while darker grays offer a more dramatic contrast. As with white, the undertone of the gray should complement the undertone of the brick. Warm grays pair well with warm-toned bricks, and cool grays with cool-toned bricks.

For a bolder aesthetic, black can create a striking and modern look. Black trim against red brick provides a dramatic definition and highlights architectural details. It's important to consider the overall style of the house when opting for black, as it can appear overpowering on certain architectural styles. Balancing the black with lighter accents can create a more harmonious and visually appealing result.

Green offers a connection to nature and can create a calming and inviting atmosphere. Sage green, olive green, and hunter green are popular choices that complement red brick well. The specific shade of green should be selected based on the brick's undertone. Warmer greens pair well with warm-toned bricks, and cooler greens with cool-toned bricks.

Blue can create a refreshing and sophisticated look, particularly with cooler-toned red bricks. Navy blue, slate blue, and even lighter shades of blue can work well. Navy blue offers a classic and elegant feel, while lighter blues create a more airy and coastal vibe. As with other color choices, testing different shades against the brick is crucial for achieving the desired effect.

Beyond the main exterior color, the trim, shutters, and doors offer opportunities to introduce accent colors. These accents can either complement or contrast the main color and the brick. For example, a black trim against a white exterior and red brick creates a classic and timeless look. Alternatively, a contrasting color on the front door can add a pop of personality and visual interest.

The architectural style of the house also plays a significant role in color selection. Traditional styles often benefit from classic color combinations, such as white or cream with black trim. More modern homes can incorporate bolder colors like gray, black, or even deep blues or greens. Considering the architectural context ensures that the chosen colors enhance the overall aesthetic of the house.

The surrounding landscape should also be factored into the color selection process. Houses surrounded by lush greenery may benefit from colors that complement the natural surroundings, such as greens or browns. Houses in more urban settings may benefit from more neutral colors like gray or white.

Before committing to a specific color scheme, testing the colors on a small section of the brick is highly recommended. Observing the colors in different lighting conditions throughout the day will provide a more accurate representation of how they will appear on the entire house. This allows for adjustments and ensures that the final color scheme achieves the desired aesthetic.

Choosing exterior paint colors for a red brick house involves careful consideration of the brick's undertone, the desired aesthetic, the architectural style, and the surrounding landscape. By taking these factors into account, homeowners can create a harmonious and visually appealing exterior that enhances the inherent beauty of their red brick home.