Brick is one of the most timeless and durable building materials in American architecture. From historic brownstones to modern suburban homes, brick has always symbolized strength, warmth, and craftsmanship. But today, brickwork is about more than just structure—it’s also a way to express personal style. By combining different brick types, colors, and textures, you can create a home exterior that stands out and reflects your individual taste. Here’s how to use brick creatively in your next building or renovation project.

The Many Faces of Brick

Bricks come in a wide range of styles, from traditional red clay to sleek white or charcoal tones. The surface finish—whether smooth, tumbled, or wire-cut—adds another layer of character.

• Handmade or reclaimed bricks offer a rustic, weathered look with natural variations in color and texture. They’re perfect for adding charm to new builds or blending seamlessly with older homes.
• Machine-made bricks provide a clean, uniform appearance that suits contemporary architecture.
• Glazed or coated bricks add depth of color and extra protection against dirt and weather, making them ideal for accent walls or decorative details.

Mixing these types can create subtle contrasts and visual interest without compromising durability.

Playing with Color and Contrast

Color plays a major role in how a brick façade feels. A single color can create a calm, cohesive look, while mixing tones adds energy and dimension.

Try combining warm and cool shades—for example, pairing classic red bricks with gray mortar—or use darker bricks as accents around windows, doors, or entryways. You can also highlight one section of the house, such as a chimney or gable, with a different brick color to create a focal point.

When choosing colors, always view brick samples outdoors and in natural light. The same brick can look very different depending on the time of day and surrounding materials.

Patterns and Layouts that Add Character

The pattern in which bricks are laid—known as the bond—has a big impact on the overall look. Common patterns include running bond, stack bond, and Flemish bond, but there are many creative variations.

Switching between patterns or slightly offsetting certain bricks can create texture and shadow effects that bring the wall to life. This handcrafted detail is increasingly popular in modern American architecture, where designers use brickwork to add depth and individuality.

You can also combine brick with other materials such as wood, metal, or stone. The contrast between natural and industrial textures gives a home a distinctive, balanced appearance.

Mortar: The Subtle Design Element

Mortar makes up as much as 20 percent of a brick wall’s surface, so its color and finish matter more than you might think. A light mortar can highlight the shape and texture of each brick, while a darker mortar creates a more unified, understated look.

Different joint styles—such as recessed, flush, or raked joints—affect how light interacts with the wall. When mixing brick types, mortar can help tie the design together or emphasize the contrast between different sections.

Inspiration from Old and New

Combining brick types isn’t just a modern trend—it’s also a smart way to connect old and new architecture. In renovations, mixing reclaimed bricks with new ones can create a seamless transition between additions and original structures. In new construction, varied brickwork can break up large façades and add visual rhythm.

Using reclaimed or locally sourced bricks is also an eco-friendly choice that adds authenticity and character. The slight differences in color and patina tell a story and make your home truly one of a kind.

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Make It Your Own

Blending different brick types is about more than design—it’s about creating a home that feels personal and enduring. Whether you’re building from scratch, remodeling, or simply updating your exterior, thoughtful choices in brick, color, and pattern can give your home a look that’s both timeless and uniquely yours.

Brick has soul—and when you experiment with it, you’ll end up with a result that’s as individual as you are.