You’ve been staring at your red brick house for months, trying to figure out the perfect trim color. That paint chip looked great in the store, but now you’re second-guessing everything.
Here’s the thing about red brick: it’s never just red. Look closer and you’ll spot orange undertones, brown flecks, gray shadows, or even purple hints.
These subtle colors determine which paint shades will make your home look cohesive or completely off-balance.
The worst mistake? Choosing paint based on indoor lighting or tiny color samples. Red brick changes dramatically from morning sun to evening shade.
That crisp white might look dingy at noon, while that perfect gray could turn muddy in morning light.
Before you commit to gallons of paint, test large samples on different walls at various times of day.
Best Exterior Paint Colors to Pair with Red Brick Walls
Selecting the right exterior paint for red brick homes creates a beautiful contrast and enhances curb appeal. Popular choices include crisp whites, soft grays, and navy blues that complement the brick’s warm tones perfectly.
1. White
You can’t go wrong with white. It’s the safe choice that works every single time with red brick.
White trim makes your windows pop. Your front door becomes a focal point. The contrast is clean and crisp.
But here’s the catch: not all whites are the same. Bright white can look harsh against warm red brick. Choose a white with subtle warm undertones instead.
2. Cream / Off-White
Think vanilla ice cream instead of fresh snow. Cream softens the overall look while still providing contrast.
This shade works perfectly for homeowners who want classic appeal without the stark brightness of pure white. Your neighbors will notice the difference.
3. Black / Charcoal
Ready to make a statement? Black trim changes any red brick house into a showstopper.
This combination screams confidence. The high contrast creates serious curb appeal. Your home will stand out on the entire street.
Charcoal works if pure black feels too intense. Same dramatic effect, slightly softer approach.
4. Navy Blue
Navy blue brings refinement to red brick homes. It’s bold without being overwhelming.
This color choice suggests you have excellent taste. The deep blue complements the earthiness of brick perfectly. Think country club meets cozy cottage.
5. Sage Green
Sage green whispers instead of shouts. It creates a calming, natural feel that works beautifully with red brick.
This shade connects your home to the surrounding landscape. Perfect for houses with lots of greenery nearby. The combination feels organic and peaceful.
6. Olive Green
Olive green has more personality than sage. It’s earthier and warmer.
This color works especially well on older homes or rustic styles. The deeper tone adds richness without competing with your brick. Very Mediterranean villa vibes.
7. Warm Taupe
Taupe is the chameleon of exterior colors. It adapts to your brick’s undertones beautifully.
This neutral choice never looks dated. Taupe trim blends seamlessly while still defining your home’s features. Safe but not boring.
8. Burgundy / Deep Red
Matching red with red sounds risky. But burgundy creates a sophisticated layered effect.
Use this as an accent color only. Front door, shutters, or small trim details work best. Too much burgundy overwhelms the eye.
The key is choosing a burgundy that’s different from your brick tone.
9. Golden Beige
Golden beige amplifies the warmth already present in red brick. The combination feels like a sunny afternoon.
This shade works particularly well in southern climates. It enhances rather than fights your brick’s natural warmth. Very welcoming and approachable.
10. Light Gray
Light gray brings red brick houses into the 21st century. It’s fresh and contemporary.
Gray cools down the warm brick tones. The result feels balanced and modern. Perfect for homeowners wanting to update their home’s look without major renovations.
11. Greige (Gray + Beige)
Can’t choose between gray and beige? Greige gives you both.
This trendy color adapts to different lighting conditions. Morning sun brings out the beige. Evening shade emphasizes the gray. It’s like having two colors in one.
Greige works with almost any red brick undertone. The ultimate versatile choice.
Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Color
- Hold a white piece of paper against your brick. What colors do you see reflected?
- Orange and brown undertones mean your brick runs warm. Choose paint colors with warm bases like cream or golden beige.
- Gray and purple undertones indicate cool brick. Cool paint colors work best here. Think pure white or light gray.
- Not every surface should compete for attention. Your home needs a visual order.
- Use light colors for large areas like trim. Save bold colors for smaller features like front doors and shutters.
Conclusion
After years of helping homeowners choose exterior colors, I’ve seen how the right paint can completely change a red brick house’s personality.
Light neutrals like cream and taupe create timeless appeal, while bold darks like navy and charcoal add drama. Earthy tones bring natural warmth, and soft greens offer calming balance.
Your perfect color depends on three factors: your home’s architectural style, natural lighting conditions, and those subtle brick undertones we discussed.
No two red brick houses are identical, so your color choice should reflect that uniqueness.
Don’t rush this decision. Try these color combinations we’ve covered, but test samples first. Consider using virtual design tools or consulting a color professional.
Your exterior paint will greet you every day for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What paint colors look best with red brick exteriors?
White, cream, and light gray are classic choices that provide clean contrast with red brick. For bolder looks, navy blue, sage green, and charcoal create striking combinations that add character.
Should I match warm or cool paint colors with my red brick?
Check your brick’s undertones by holding white paper against it. If you see orange or brown reflections, choose warm paint colors like cream or golden beige for the best harmony.
Can I paint my red brick walls instead of just the trim?
Yes, but consider the maintenance involved since brick is porous and requires special primer. Many homeowners prefer painting just the trim, doors, and shutters to maintain the brick’s natural beauty.
How do I test paint colors on my red brick house?
Paint large sample patches on different sides of your house and observe them for a full week. Morning and afternoon light change how colors appear, so check samples at various times of day.
What’s the biggest mistake when choosing exterior paint for red brick?
Ignoring your brick’s undertones leads to clashing colors that never look quite right. Always identify whether your brick leans warm or cool before selecting paint shades.
