Whether it’s real or faux (shh… we won’t tell anyone), there’s a reason exposed brick is one of the most sought-after elements when shopping for a home. Just look on Instagram: you’ll notice #exposedbrick has over 140,000 photos and counting. Even if your space isn’t blessed with this historic, charming detail (hello, New York City loft), you can still create a similar look on your own with decorative panels or wallpaper . But, for a taste of the real thing, we rounded up 12 warm and welcoming rooms adorned with exposed brick walls. Time to fire up your Pinterest board!
Paying homage to the building’s industrial roots, this Montreal loft ‘s exposed brick wall displays artwork by homeowner and Maison Pepin founder Lysanne Pepin. The ruggedness of the brick contrasts beautifully with the delicateness of her paintings.
Photographer: Maxime Desbiens
Source: House & Home August 2019
Designer: Lysanne Pepin
In the entryway of this Toronto family home , an original brick wall and playful wallpaper set the tone for the rest of the space. Designer Rebecca Axler made the brick even more of a focal point with a rustic mirror and eye-catching pendant hanging above.
Photographer: Stephani Buchman
Source: H&H TV
Designer: Rebecca Axler, RTG Designs
“A lot of people ask: is the brick wall real? Yes, it’s real!” says homeowner Elena Lohse . “We exposed the brick, sealed it and painted the bottom half white. It’s one of the more unique features in our home.”
Photographer: Courtesy of This House 5000
Designer: Elena Lohse
An exposed brick wall steals the show in this renovated heritage home ‘s kitchen. Rows of open shelving display treasured ceramics and everyday essentials, plus vintage art and quirky animal figures — the perfect mix of rustic and refined.
Photographer: Robin Stubbert
Source: House & Home November 2019
Designer: Cynthia Zamaria
At first glance, it’s hard to tell this is a children’s bedroom (the brick wall screams New York brownstone sophistication), but treasured stuffies and playful touches keep the neutral space feeling youthful.
Photographer: Lauren Miller
Source: House & Home October 2020
Designer: Shauna Walton
Ceramicist and designer Trudy Crane’s dreamy apartment is housed in a circa-1875 building (hence the Pinterest-worthy brick walls) which gives the white and wood palette plenty of interest.
Photographer: Monic Richard
Source: House & Home September 2016
Designer: Trudy Crane
If you’re lucky enough to live in a historic New York City loft, like retailer Michele Varian and her husband, singer and guitarist Brad Roberts, exposed brick is part of the equation. Cerulean throw pillows, vintage-look artwork and a quirky owl statue are eclectic and fun in this cozy corner.
Photographer: John Gruen
Source: House & Home October 2016
Designer: Michele Varian
In this picturesque cottage bedroom , a dividing wall covered in black brick creates unexpected contrast when set against the serene white, gray and wood palette.
Photographer: Valerie Wilcox
Source: House & Home July/August 2020
Designer: Lorraine Franklin
“The studio is my place to write or paint or play piano,” says designer Theresa Casey of her hidden retreat. “It’s a sanctuary where I can really be creative.” Old clay tiles from France and exposed brick hint at the space’s past as a garage.
Photographer: Donna Griffith
Source: House & Home May 2014
Designer: Theresa Casey
A coat of white paint provides a clean slate for copper pots and pans and other eclectic cooking essentials to really stand out against the brick backdrop.
Photographer: Maxime Desbiens
Source: House & Home January 2020
Designer: Ashley Shaanan
If you really want to take the plunge, paint a brick wall in a vibrant color like cherry red. It’s a bold move that just makes sense in this black and white basement.
Photographer: Angus Fergusson
Source: House & Home June 2011
Designer: Theresa Casey
Author: Victoria Christie