Transform Your Home: 20 Stunning White Painted Brick House Ideas for Unmatched Curb Appeal
Are you considering a fresh new look for your home’s exterior? Painting your brick house white is a perennially popular choice among homeowners seeking a significant and stylish update. This transformative design decision instantly brightens your property, offering a clean, modern aesthetic that effortlessly enhances curb appeal. Whether your vision leans towards the rustic charm of a cozy farmhouse, the sleek sophistication of a modern minimalist design, or the timeless elegance of a classic style, white painted brick provides a versatile foundation for any architectural preference.
Ready to embark on a journey to revitalize your home’s facade? Dive into our curated collection of inspiring white painted brick house ideas. This guide will help you visualize and select the perfect style to create an exterior that truly reflects your personal taste and elevates your property’s character.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore diverse design concepts, provide expert tips, and suggest specific paint colors to help you achieve your dream white brick home.
Why Choose White Paint for Your Brick Exterior?
Opting to paint your brick house white is much more than just following a trend; it’s a strategic design choice that delivers numerous benefits, dramatically enhancing your home’s aesthetic and functional value. Here’s why white painted brick stands out as an excellent option:
- Unmatched Curb Appeal: A white exterior instantly brightens your home, making it feel more inviting, contemporary, and well-maintained. It creates a crisp backdrop that allows landscaping and architectural details to pop, significantly boosting your home’s visual appeal.
- Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Lighter colors, especially white, reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat compared to darker brick tones. This can contribute to a cooler interior during warmer months, potentially reducing air conditioning costs and improving your home’s overall energy efficiency.
- Versatile Design Canvas: White acts as a neutral and timeless backdrop, providing unparalleled versatility. It harmonizes beautifully with virtually any trim color, roofing material, and landscaping style. This flexibility allows you to easily update accent colors or design elements in the future without repainting the entire exterior.
- Modern & Timeless Aesthetic: White painted brick strikes a perfect balance between modern freshness and classic elegance. It can instantly update an older brick home, giving it a contemporary edge while respecting its original character. Conversely, it can also soften the lines of a new build, adding a touch of sophisticated charm.
- Protection and Durability: A high-quality exterior paint specifically designed for masonry surfaces can offer an additional layer of protection against the elements, including moisture penetration and UV damage. This can help extend the life of your brickwork by preventing deterioration.
- Increased Home Value: The updated and fresh appearance of a white painted brick home is highly sought after by buyers. A well-executed paint job can significantly increase your property’s market value, making it a wise investment for future resale.
Inspiring White Painted Brick House Ideas for Every Style
Let’s explore a collection of fantastic ideas to transform your brick house into a white-painted masterpiece. Each style offers unique charm and character, proving the incredible versatility of white brick.
1. Classic Farmhouse Charm
Transform your traditional brick home into a quintessential modern farmhouse masterpiece. A crisp white like Pure White (SW 7005) on your brick exterior, beautifully paired with contrasting black shutters and a welcoming wraparound porch, instantly evokes a sense of idyllic countryside appeal. To complete this charming look, incorporate warm wooden accents, such as a natural wood front door or exposed beams, and vintage-style lighting fixtures that cast a soft, inviting glow.
Style Tip: For a softer, more authentically aged farmhouse feel, consider using a slightly off-white shade. Hues like Swiss Coffee (Benjamin Moore OC-45) or Goldtone (Benjamin Moore OC-112) can add a subtle warmth and historical depth without sacrificing the bright, clean aesthetic.
2. Sleek Contemporary Lines
Achieve a truly clean and modern aesthetic with Ultra Pure White (SW 7003) painted brick. This brilliant shade works wonders in accentuating sharp, geometric lines, making it an ideal choice for contemporary architecture. This minimalist style thrives on crisp, angular designs and is perfectly suited for homes featuring expansive windows, flat roofs, and clean, uncluttered landscaping. The stark neutrality of the white brick provides a striking contrast with large glass panels and sleek, open outdoor spaces, creating an exterior that feels both cutting-edge and visually expansive.
3. Coastal Cottage Vibes
Evoke the calming essence of a breezy, coastal retreat by blending white painted brick with a soft, tinted hue. Consider using a paint with undertones reminiscent of the ocean, such as a lightened version of Sea Salt (SW 6204), for a subtle, ethereal quality. Pair this with refreshing seafoam green trim, weathered natural wood accents, and classic white-painted shutters to complete the look. This charming style instantly transports you to a relaxing beachside atmosphere, conjuring memories of gentle ocean breezes, sun-kissed sandy shores, and serene coastal living.
4. Tudor Revival Refresh
Even a classic Tudor-style home, known for its distinct timber framing and brickwork, can benefit immensely from the crisp, modern allure of white painted brick. Consider a warm, inviting white like Alabaster (SW 7008) for this transformation. The key to a successful Tudor refresh is to focus specifically on painting the brick sections, meticulously leaving the natural stone, exposed timber, or stucco elements untouched. This selective approach creates a striking contrast, allowing the architectural details that define the Tudor style to truly stand out. This thoughtful update maintains the old-world charm and intricate character of the Tudor aesthetic while simultaneously modernizing the overall appearance of your home, forging a balanced and eye-catching fusion of history and contemporary design.
5. Scandinavian Minimalism
Embrace a Nordic-inspired design ethos by painting your brick exterior with a cool, serene white such as Snowbound (SW 7004) to cultivate a clean, calm, and effortlessly sophisticated look. This crisp white forms the perfect canvas for the Scandinavian aesthetic. Complement the painted brick with natural wood accents, like a beautifully simple wood-paneled door or unadorned wooden window frames, to introduce an essential element of warmth and organic texture into the exterior space. The emphasis here is firmly on simplicity, functionality, and a resolutely uncluttered appearance. Large, unadorned windows and thoughtfully minimalist landscaping further contribute to the peaceful, serene environment that Scandinavian design is globally celebrated for, creating an exterior that feels both inviting and refreshingly sparse.
6. Southern Colonial Look
Extra White (SW 7006) painted brick imbues colonial-style homes with an unmistakable air of old-school refinement and grandeur. This pristine white hue serves as the perfect canvas for this stately architectural style. To achieve a truly classic Southern look that exudes timeless elegance and never fades out of fashion, complement the white brick with traditional elements such as rich black or deep dark green shutters, iconic white columns flanking the entryway, and a stately, perhaps dark-colored, front door. This combination creates an exterior that is both imposing and welcoming, perfectly capturing the essence of Southern charm.
7. Industrial Chic Appeal
Cultivate a cutting-edge industrial look by painting your brick with a crisp, bright white like High Reflective White (SW 7757), but with a deliberate twist: leave certain sections of the brick unpainted. This raw, exposed brick element adds a gritty, urban edge. Harmonize this aesthetic by incorporating robust metal accents, such as corrugated steel siding or wrought-iron railings, and feature exposed structural beams to truly capture that sought-after loft-style industrial feel. Other key industrial elements that will enhance this aesthetic include large, steel-framed windows, concrete planters, raw wood details, and sleek, utilitarian lighting fixtures. This blend of painted and natural textures creates a dynamic and sophisticated exterior.
8. Mediterranean Refresh
A soft, inviting white like Creamy (SW 7012) painted brick can beautifully bestow Mediterranean-style homes with a fresh, contemporary update while meticulously preserving their inherent warmth and sun-kissed charm. This hue brightens the facade without stripping away the style’s characteristic earthy undertones. To achieve a perfect blend of old-world allure and modern freshness, pair the creamy white brick with traditional terracotta accents, perhaps in roofing tiles or decorative pots, and introduce lush, vibrant greenery. Cascading bougainvillea or fragrant jasmine can add to the romantic, sun-drenched atmosphere, creating an exterior that is both inviting and elegantly updated.
9. Victorian Makeover
Infuse new life into a grand Victorian brick home by painting its exterior with an elegant, soft white like White Dove (Benjamin Moore OC-17). The key to this successful makeover lies in carefully preserving and highlighting the ornate architectural details, intricate trim work, and decorative elements that are hallmarks of Victorian design. The striking contrast between these delicate, intricate features and the fresh, clean white brick brilliantly emphasizes the exceptional craftsmanship inherent in the original design. Consider introducing a sophisticated pop of color to the trim, perhaps a deep charcoal, a rich navy, or even soft pastel hues, to further enhance these ornate elements and add another layer of visual interest. Incorporate a vintage-style front door, complete with elegant brass or polished gold hardware, to maintain the home’s classic character while embracing its revitalized aesthetic.
10. Mid-Century Modern Revival
Give classic mid-century modern homes a vibrant update with Decorator’s White (Benjamin Moore OC-149) painted brick. This crisp white hue serves to emphatically emphasize their signature clean lines, distinctive geometric shapes, and often low-slung profiles. This refreshing approach not only highlights the unique architectural forms and innovative design of these homes but also makes them feel undeniably fresh, contemporary, and relevant for today’s aesthetic. Pair with natural wood siding, large windows, and minimalist landscaping for a truly authentic revival.
11. Craftsman Cottage Appeal
Natural Linen (Benjamin Moore 966) painted brick can elegantly lighten the often heavier, more robust appearance of traditional Craftsman-style homes. This soft, earthy white adds a welcome brightness while meticulously preserving their inherent cozy, handcrafted feel and emphasizing their natural materials. Authenticity is key here: maintain prominent natural wood trim, showcase exposed rafter tails or beams, and incorporate rustic stone accents to complement the painted brick. This thoughtful style blends the rich heritage of old-world craftsmanship with modern, clean lines, resulting in a home that feels both calming and freshly inviting, perfectly balanced between tradition and contemporary appeal.
12. Georgian Grandeur
Cloud White (Benjamin Moore OC-130) painted brick significantly enhances the formal refinement and stately presence of Georgian-style homes. This elegant, subtle white is particularly effective when paired with the symmetrical facades, balanced proportions, and classic architectural elements characteristic of this revered style. The clean white paint exquisitely highlights these timeless design features, from pilasters to cornices, adding a refined, polished touch that amplifies their inherent grandeur. This lasting style imbues your home with an upscale, dignified presence, making it a true emblem of sophisticated architecture and enduring appeal.
13. Art Deco Inspired
If your home proudly showcases Art Deco influences, a crisp, pure white like Chantilly Lace (Benjamin Moore OC-65) painted brick can dramatically help emphasize its bold geometric patterns, sleek streamlined forms, and distinctive decorative motifs. This radiant white creates a striking backdrop for the period’s characteristic glamour. Elevate this sophisticated aesthetic by combining the white brick with dazzling metallic accents, such as polished gold or gleaming chrome fixtures and trim. Incorporate striking landscaping elements that mirror the angularity and flair of Art Deco design to give your home a truly standout, effortlessly glamorous, and utterly unique look. This meticulous design approach culminates in a refined, one-of-a-kind home that commands attention.
14. Prairie Style Cottage
Simply White (Benjamin Moore OC-117) painted brick works exceptionally beautifully with a Prairie-style house, serving to emphasize its defining horizontal lines and seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. This clear, bright white accentuates the low-slung profiles and broad eaves characteristic of the style. To complete this harmonious look, incorporate natural materials such as unpainted wood trim, stone foundations, and expansive earth-toned accents in your landscaping. The goal is to create an exterior that feels grounded, organic, and deeply connected to its natural environment, honoring Frank Lloyd Wright’s vision.
15. French Country Style
Cultivate an enchanting French countryside style with Moonshine (Benjamin Moore OC-49) painted brick. This soft, ethereal white provides a romantic backdrop, evoking the sun-drenched walls of a provincial villa. Pair this with characteristic architectural elements such as gracefully arched windows and rustic wooden shutters to enhance the romantic aesthetic. For an authentic provincial appeal, consider adding climbing vines, like wisteria or ivy, to ramble over exterior walls or a charming garden gate, creating an irresistibly picturesque and timeless French-inspired exterior.
16. Spanish Colonial Update
A vibrant white such as Oxford White (Benjamin Moore CC-30) painted brick can effectively modernize Spanish Colonial homes while meticulously maintaining their distinctive character and inherent charm. This bright hue provides a crisp backdrop that allows traditional elements to truly shine. To create a fresh take on this classic style, pair the white brick with elegant wrought iron details, such as ornate window grilles or balcony railings, and introduce vibrant, colorful tile accents. These elements, combined with lush, drought-tolerant landscaping, will imbue your home with a sophisticated blend of historical richness and contemporary allure.
17. Contemporary Farmhouse
Achieve a harmonious blend of modern sophistication and rustic charm with White Heron (Benjamin Moore OC-57) painted brick. This soft, warm white serves as the perfect canvas for the contemporary farmhouse aesthetic. Combine the white brick with sleek metal roofing, expansive oversized windows that flood the interior with natural light, and complementary natural wood elements. This versatile style seamlessly combines the best of both worlds, resulting in a truly unique and inviting exterior that feels both current and enduring. To further personalize your contemporary farmhouse or villa exterior, consider these design elements:
- Roofing: Opt for sleek Metal, classic Slate, or textural Cedar Shake for distinct character.
- Trim: Choose bold Black, warm Natural Wood, or sophisticated Charcoal Gray.
- Accents: Integrate durable Stone, inviting Wood, or modern Metal elements.
- Landscaping: Select Formal, a charming Cottage Garden, or a minimalist Modern approach.
18. Transitional White Brick
White Ice (Benjamin Moore OC-20) painted brick provides the perfect neutral and sophisticated foundation for the increasingly popular transitional style. This approach artfully blends traditional and contemporary design elements, creating a harmonious and balanced aesthetic that is both timeless and current. The crispness of White Ice allows for the introduction of diverse materials and textures, offering unique visual appeal with seamless modern functionality. Consider pairing it with dark framed windows, natural wood accents, and clean-lined landscaping to achieve a refined, comfortable, and up-to-date look.
19. Enchanting Side Yard Garden
Enhance the often-overlooked side of your home by incorporating a charming side yard garden, adding delightful visual interest and a sense of natural beauty. Thoughtfully plant a diverse mix of vibrant flowers, lush shrubs, and graceful ornamental grasses. Consider introducing climbing vines on fences or elegant trellises to add vertical dimension and a touch of romance. This living addition not only significantly enhances your home’s exterior aesthetic but also cultivates a serene sense of privacy and tranquility. To beautifully complement this verdant setting, use a soft, welcoming white like Ballet White (Benjamin Moore OC-9) on any nearby brick walls, ensuring a harmonious and inviting outdoor space.
20. Monochromatic Modern Masterpiece
Forge a striking and sophisticated monochromatic exterior by artfully employing various shades of white and cream. Utilize a base like Bone White (Benjamin Moore PM-30) for your primary brick color, then accent with subtly different tones such as Linen White (Benjamin Moore 912) on trim or architectural features. The strategic interplay of different textures and finishes within the same color family is crucial here; it adds incredible depth, subtle variation, and compelling visual interest without ever overwhelming the refined design. This approach creates a cohesive, elegant, and effortlessly modern facade that speaks volumes through its understated simplicity.
Essential Considerations Before You Paint Your Brick
Before you commit to painting your brick exterior white, careful planning and preparation are paramount to ensure stunning, long-lasting results and to protect your investment. Here are key factors to keep in mind:
- Surface Preparation is Key: Achieving a durable finish starts with impeccable surface preparation. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the brick to remove all dirt, grime, mildew, and loose debris. Pressure washing is often effective, but stubborn stains may require specialized masonry cleaners. Inspect the brickwork meticulously for any cracks, crumbling mortar, or damage, and repair these areas before painting. Finally, apply a high-quality primer specifically designed for masonry surfaces to ensure optimal adhesion and a uniform topcoat. Some prefer a breathable mineral paint or lime wash over a traditional opaque paint, as it allows the brick to breathe and can offer a softer, more historical look.
- Paint Selection Matters: Do not use just any exterior paint. Select a high-quality exterior paint that is explicitly formulated for use on brick and masonry. Look for breathable formulas, such as acrylic latex, that allow moisture vapor to escape from the brick, preventing bubbling, peeling, and mildew growth. These paints offer excellent adhesion, superior durability, and resistance to fading and weather damage, crucial for a lasting finish.
- Professional vs. DIY: While painting brick can certainly be a rewarding DIY project for smaller areas or experienced homeowners, consider the scale and complexity of your home’s exterior. For larger homes, multi-story facades, or properties with intricate architectural details, hiring experienced professionals is often a wise investment. Their expertise ensures proper preparation, even application, and specialized equipment, which often translates to superior quality, efficiency, and long-term longevity, ultimately saving you time and potential rework.
- Comprehensive Checklist: Before diving into your project, ensure you’ve considered these vital points:
- Local Building Codes & HOA Restrictions: Verify if there are any specific regulations regarding exterior color changes in your area or by your Homeowners Association.
- Weather Conditions & Timing: Choose a period with stable, moderate temperatures and low humidity for optimal paint drying and curing. Avoid extreme heat or cold.
- Color Testing: Always test your chosen white paint color on a small, inconspicuous section of your brick exterior. Observe it at different times of day to see how the light affects its appearance before committing to the entire house.
- Long-Term Maintenance: Understand the ongoing maintenance requirements for painted brick (cleaning, touch-ups) and factor this into your decision.
- Professional Consultation: If in doubt, consult with a reputable painting contractor or an exterior design specialist to discuss the feasibility and best approach for your specific home.
Maintenance Tips for Your Beautiful White Painted Brick
While stunning, white painted brick does require regular maintenance to preserve its pristine appearance and ensure longevity. Proactive care will minimize the need for major interventions. Plan for routine washing annually and address any necessary touch-ups every few years to keep your exterior looking fresh. The quality of your initial paint and the meticulousness of its application will significantly influence long-term maintenance needs.
- Annual Cleaning: Gently power wash your white brick exterior each year to remove accumulated dirt, pollen, and environmental pollutants. Use a low-pressure setting and a mild detergent or specialized exterior cleaner to avoid damaging the paint or mortar.
- Spot Cleaning: Address any localized stains, such as mildew or algae, promptly with a diluted bleach solution or an appropriate cleaner to prevent them from spreading or becoming embedded.
- Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your painted brick for any signs of chipping, peeling, or cracking. Catching these issues early allows for minor touch-ups before they escalate into larger, more costly repairs.
- Addressing Moisture: Ensure proper drainage around your home and that gutters are clean and functioning effectively. Excess moisture can lead to paint failure over time.
- Lifespan Expectations: With varying levels of care, you can expect your painted brick to maintain its beauty:
- 1-2 years: With basic annual cleaning, your paint will look good.
- 4-5 years: With thorough annual cleaning and minor touch-ups, the finish will remain excellent.
- 8+ years: With detailed, consistent maintenance and regular updates, high-quality paint can last a decade or more, looking nearly new.
Conclusion: Unlock Your Home’s Potential with White Painted Brick
As we’ve explored, transforming your home with white painted brick offers truly limitless possibilities for updating and revitalizing your exterior. From embracing a more sleek, modern aesthetic to leaning into a charming traditional style, or even creating a fresh, inviting, and cozy vibe, the power of white paint can profoundly change the entire appearance and feel of your home.
With these 20 diverse and inspiring white painted brick house ideas, you are now well-equipped to discover a style that perfectly aligns with your vision and architectural preferences. Remember that the right complementary touches – such as carefully chosen accent colors for trim, thoughtfully designed landscaping, and appropriate outdoor lighting – will seamlessly enhance your new design, creating a cohesive and stunning curb appeal.
Ready to take your home’s exterior to the next level? Let these ideas fuel your creativity and inspire your next big home transformation project. A white painted brick exterior isn’t just a design choice; it’s a statement of timeless elegance and renewed charm.