White bricks are the perfect base for combining tradition with modernity. This is a solution that will work in many styles – from Scandinavian and boho, to modern minimalism. They add lightness to the space and optically enlarge it – and that’s why white painted bricks are especially popular among owners of small apartments. But increasingly we can also find them in modern lofts and houses.

In our article you will learn how to paint red brick white to create a striking decoration for the walls. We will also suggest how to incorporate white facing brick to give the interior of your home a special and unique character!

Brick painted white – how to get this fashionable effect step by step?

Although old brick coming from demolitions naturally comes in shades of red, orange or brown, nothing prevents you from giving it a trendy white color. This is a great way to refresh your interior, brighten up your living room and at the same time preserve the beautiful texture of the old brick.

1. brick preparation

Before you start painting, make sure the brick is thoroughly cleaned. Remove any remaining mortar, dust and debris – preferably with a wire brush or pressure washer (if possible). The surface should be dry and free of greasy stains.

2. choosing the right paint

For painting brick, paints work best:

  • Mineral or silicate – allow the wall to breathe and preserve its natural texture, which means that after repainting the bricks will still have visible traces of the passage of time and small, unique imperfections.

  • Acrylic for masonry – forms a more opaque coating, works well in rooms where there is no high humidity. It is good to choose a paint that is suitable for dilution with water. Thanks to its formula, it adheres well to the surface, forming a smooth coating on the porous structure of the brick.

  • Chalk or lime paints – if you want a whitewash effect, i.e. a light whitewash with a clearly visible brick texture underneath.

It is a good idea to apply primer paint before painting. It improves adhesion and increases the durability of the applied paint, which allows you to achieve a uniform effect. It also acts as a protective barrier, minimizing the risk of discoloration or peeling.

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3. painting technique

  • Full coverage – if you want a modern, even finish, use a roller with short bristles and apply the paint evenly over the entire surface of the brick. Two thin coats work best instead of one thick coat – this will avoid streaks and keep the brick texture visible.

  • Whitewash (whitewashing) – is a popular method in which the paint is diluted with water (e.g., 1:1) and applied with a brush or sponge. This will give you a semi-transparent effect – the brick will look brightened, but its original color and texture will gently peek out from underneath.

  • Thinning (German schmear effect) – involves applying paint in an irregular manner with a brush, and then, before it dries completely, partially wiping off the excess with a damp cloth or sponge. This creates natural discoloration and an interesting texture – a great way to achieve a slightly aged brick look. White decorative brick with German schmear effect perfectly harmonizes with the shabby chic style (which relies on natural materials and rawness of finishes) and with the country style (which is characterized by a cozy aura, wooden furniture and muted colors that give the interior a homeliness).

  • The “dry brush ” method – you dip only the tips of the brush in the paint and paint with very light, quick movements over the surface. In this way, the white settles mainly on the protruding parts of the brick, while the recesses remain darker – this gives a three-dimensional effect and emphasizes the texture of the old bricks.

4. what to pay attention to?

  • Absorbency of the brick – old brick can strongly “drink” paint, so you will often need a primer or primer.

  • Ventilate the room – painting is best done with good air circulation so that the paint dries evenly.

  • The end result – consider whether you prefer a perfectly smooth white surface, or rather a styling of aged, lightly rubbed brick.

For which interior does a brick painted white fit best?

Brick painted in white looks great on walls in interiors with a modern, Scandinavian or industrial character. Its light color brings lightness and spaciousness to the rooms, making it an ideal choice for living rooms, kitchens, home offices and even bathrooms.

1. Scandinavian style

  • White and natural materials are the basis of this style, and the brick adds warmth and texture to the interior without disturbing its simplicity.
  • Combine it with: light wood (e.g., pine, bleached oak), linen and wool textiles, grays and pastel accents (e.g., the remaining walls in a shade of soft mint or blue).

2. boho style

  • White brick creates a neutral, light background that allows you to highlight colorful accessories, plaids and plants.
  • Combine it with: macramé, wicker baskets, rattan furniture, lots of green potted plants, ethnic rugs and pillows in different shades of beige.

3. industrial / loft style

  • It’s usually associated with red brick, but white brick is a great alternative when you want to achieve a lighter, brighter interior while still maintaining its raw character. It’s ideal when you want to decorate a small apartment in a loft style. White bricks in the hallway are particularly popular – they make the apartment seem larger and brighter from the threshold.
  • Combine white brick with: other raw materials like architectural concrete on the ceiling, metal and steel accessories in black, solid wood furniture, lamps with visible bulbs and dark accessories contrasting with white.

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4. rustic style / farmhouse

  • The brick on the wall emphasizes the naturalness and coziness of the interior, while white gives the effect of freshness.
  • Combine it with: wooden beams, massive tables, ceramics, warm fabrics (cotton, wool) and accessories in beige and brown.

5. minimalist style

  • White brick tiles break the sterility and coolness of modern arrangements by introducing delicate texture.
  • Combine them with: simple furniture with white or black fronts, glass and chrome, and add accents in strong colors (such as graphite, navy blue, or bottle green).

What style does white facing brick NOT go with?

Although white brick is very versatile, it will not find its way into every interior equally well. An example is the glamour style, which is dominated by glossy surfaces, marbles, glass, metalized and shiny accessories. The rough texture of brick, even painted white, may contrast too much with the elegant, luxurious character of this type of arrangement. Instead of emphasizing chic, brick can give the impression of mismatching and “impoverish” the effect, which in glamour is based on glamour and sophisticated materials.

White brick is also rarely chosen for a classical style interior – especially its palace or antique-inspired version. There, stucco, smooth walls, columns and symmetrical layouts dominate – and old demolition brick with its texture would introduce too informal, austere an accent. While in the classic version of “country” or “farmhouse” brick will find its way, in the more elegant, representative variety of this style it will rather disturb the coherence of the arrangement.