How to Decorate a Brick Home

A brick home offers a blank canvas for creating the look you want.

Brick houses have a certain old-world charm that can be very appealing. With a bit of creativity and imagination, decorating a brick home can leave a lasting impression. Brick homes are versatile in the sense that they can add to the aesthetics of any look. Brick homes can serve as an accent wall or be painted over allowing the homeowner to make a bold statement. The options are limitless.

Instructions

1. Research options for decorating a brick home. Decide on contemporary or traditional options. Home and garden magazines often have pictures and ideas for decorating a brick home. A contemporary look favors clean lines and a simple design whereas the traditional style evokes a sense of comfort.

2. Decorate with furniture and accent pieces. Warm tons and dark wooden furniture pieces work best with the traditional look. If it is the modern look you want, consider both bright, bold colors or contrasting furniture pieces with clean and simple lines. Visit local flea markets or yard sales for pieces that might add to the look you are trying to achieve. This is a good alternative if you are on a limited budget. Do-it-yourself projects, such as restaining furniture, are also viable alternatives.

3. Redo window coverings. Soften the look of the brick with antique white or cream colored embroidered textiles. Depending on the home, brick can often create a dark interior if there are not enough windows. To counter this, you can drape sheer window scarves over the top and use translucent coverings for the face of a window. Avoid dark and opaque coverings.

4. Add accent pieces. Throws, pillows, rugs and floor cushions will help achieve the look you desire. If your furniture is one color, accent pieces can add a pop of color.

5. Design the exterior of the brick home by planting colorful flowers along the edge of the home. You can do this by directly planting the flowers or building a flower box along the perimeter of the house. Consider painting the front door and window frames white to offset the red color. If you live in a white brick home, painting the door and frames a bright color adds a splash of color on a white canvas. Some homeowners whitewash a brick house to mute the red color.

Tips & Warnings

• Some neighborhoods have streets lined with brick homes. Take a drive through the neighborhood for design ideas. Chat up the neighbors to see what they have done and what they would recommend.

• Spend some time consulting with a professional interior designer or landscaper for design tips or feedback. They have an eye for detail and may help you to consider options that you would have otherwise overlooked.

References

• Home Dezign: Decorating Ideas for Urban Brick Homes