Outside Paint Colors With Red Brick

Red brick homes exude classic charm and timeless appeal. Choosing the right exterior paint color can significantly enhance this inherent beauty, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look. Careful consideration of the brick's undertones, architectural style, and surrounding landscape is crucial in selecting a complementary color palette.

Consider the Brick's Undertone

Not all red bricks are created equal. Some lean towards orange or pink undertones, while others may have hints of brown or purple. Identifying the undertone is the first step in choosing a harmonious paint color. For bricks with orange undertones, warm neutrals like creamy beige or taupe can create a balanced look. Cooler grays or greens can complement red brick with brown undertones, while a sage green or a soft blue can work well with pink or purple undertones. Testing paint samples directly on the brick is highly recommended to ensure the chosen color interacts favorably with the brick's unique hue in different lighting conditions.

Harmonizing with Architectural Style

The architectural style of the home plays a significant role in determining appropriate paint colors. For instance, a classic Colonial-style home with red brick often benefits from traditional color schemes. Deep greens, navy blues, or even a classic black can create a sophisticated and historically accurate appearance. On the other hand, a more contemporary red brick home might look stunning with a lighter, more modern palette. Cool grays, crisp whites, or even a bold charcoal can highlight the architectural lines and create a sleek, updated aesthetic. The goal is to choose colors that enhance the home's architectural features and create a sense of visual harmony.

Complementing the Landscape

The surrounding landscape also plays a role in the overall aesthetic. Consider the colors of existing trees, shrubs, and flowers. Green landscaping often pairs well with a wide range of exterior paint colors, from warm neutrals to cooler blues and greens. If the landscape features vibrant flowers, choosing a more neutral paint color for the home's exterior can allow the natural beauty of the landscape to take center stage. Conversely, if the landscape is more subdued, a bolder paint color can add visual interest and curb appeal.

Classic Color Combinations for Red Brick

Certain color combinations have stood the test of time and consistently provide a pleasing aesthetic with red brick. Creamy white trim with a black or charcoal gray front door is a classic and elegant choice, offering a timeless appeal that complements a range of architectural styles. Sage green is another popular option, providing a subtle contrast that enhances the red brick's warmth. For a bolder look, navy blue or deep teal can create a striking contrast against the red brick, adding a touch of drama and sophistication.

Choosing Trim and Accent Colors

While the main exterior color sets the overall tone, trim and accent colors play a vital role in creating visual interest and highlighting architectural details. White trim is a popular choice, offering a crisp contrast against red brick and working well with a variety of exterior colors. Black trim can create a more dramatic look, particularly with lighter exterior colors. For a more cohesive look, consider choosing a trim color that is a lighter or darker shade of the main exterior color. Accent colors, used for elements like shutters, doors, and window boxes, can add pops of color and personality. These accent colors should complement the overall color scheme without clashing or overwhelming the main exterior color.

Testing and Refinement

Before committing to a full exterior paint job, testing potential colors is crucial. Large paint swatches applied directly to the brick in different areas of the house can provide a realistic representation of how the color will appear in various lighting conditions. Observing the swatches throughout the day will allow for accurate assessment of the color's interaction with the brick and the surrounding environment. This testing phase allows for refinement and adjustments, ensuring the final color choice is the perfect complement to the red brick and the overall architectural style of the home.

Long-Term Considerations

The longevity and durability of the paint should also be considered. High-quality exterior paint formulated to withstand the elements is essential for protecting the home and maintaining its aesthetic appeal. Consulting with paint professionals can provide valuable insights into suitable paint types and finishes for red brick exteriors. Factors such as local climate conditions and sun exposure should be taken into account when selecting a paint that will provide long-lasting performance and color retention.