Exposed brick walls can add a unique and distinct charm to any room. Whether they are in the living room, bedroom, kitchen, homeschool room, or office, exposed brick walls give off an old-world feel that adds character and a unique industrial style to any space. But styling a brick wall can be tricky; too much decoration can make it look cluttered, while too little may make it seem unfinished. Fortunately, there are many easy ways how to decorate a brick wall without making it look overdone or unappealing.
1. Paint
With the right color, paint can offer an interesting and unexpected contrast to the brick wall. Be mindful of the color choices. To not overpower the brick, consider lighter colors. To make sure the paint adheres well to the brick surface, first clean it with a mild detergent solution and allow it to dry thoroughly before adding your desired color.
2. Art
To create a gallery wall, hang artwork or photographs on the wall. A great way to add some personality and charm to a brick wall is by displaying artwork or favorite photos of family and friends. Consider using photo frames of varying sizes and shapes to create an eye-catching display that will also become part of your decorating theme. For extra impact, use different mounting options, such as frames with clips, hooks, or unique wall hangings
A great way to add texture and color to an exposed brick wall is by using fabrics. For example, you can use long lengths of fabric in a variety of colors and patterns to cover up portions of the wall while adding some visual interest. You can also opt for curtains if you have windows near your wall; this will offer more privacy and light control, too.
3. Shelving
Adding wall-mounted shelves is a great way to make the most of your vertical space. Not only does it provide storage for books, art objects, and decorative items, but it also creates visual interest and an opportunity for more creative styling. Choose from modern floating shelves or classic wooden shelves, depending on your style preference.
For a really unique look, you could even consider adding built-in shelving with custom woodwork – this will really help accentuate the texture and beauty of the brick wall. Another option is to add a ladder shelf, which not only looks stylish but can also be used as a makeshift bookcase or display area for plants or knickknacks.
If you need a way to add character to your brick wall, install floating shelves. Floating shelves are great for displaying books, photos, and collectibles as they draw the focus upward while adding visual interest to the room. Make sure that you choose open backed shelving in a complementary color or finish that will stand out against the bricks, such as black metal or dark wood. For a unique look, try attaching several small shelving units together to create one large shelf along the length of your wall. You can also use them to divide up the different sections of a wall for a more organized look.
4. Rugs
An area rug or carpet can bring a pop of color and warmth to the room. This is a great way to add texture and brighten up the space while still keeping it modern. If you have bare floors, this option could be especially helpful in making your brick wall stand out. Be sure to pick complementary colors that don’t clash with the rest of the decor and furniture. Another option would be to use a patterned rug which will draw more attention to your wall.
5. Plants
Plant life can add color, texture, and natural beauty to a brick wall, especially if you have a white brick wall. You can bring in potted plants or hang planters from the ceiling for a hanging garden look. If you have an area of your home that is difficult to decorate with traditional furniture, plants are a great way to fill the space and accent the exposed brick wall. Additionally, certain types of greenery can help purify your air and make your home feel fresher and cleaner than ever before. For easy maintenance, opt for low-maintenance plants such as succulents or ferns which require minimal effort but still lend a great style to your interior design scheme.
6. Window Frame
Curtains or blinds will also soften the look of your exposed brick walls and create a cozy atmosphere while providing you with privacy. Choose curtains or blinds in colors that complement your existing decor scheme. If you want to keep it simple, opt for light-colored curtains or blinds that blend in with the wall color. With the right window treatments, you can create a stunning focal point for any space.
7. Furniture
Choose furniture pieces that pick up the warm tones of the brick to create a pulled-together look in your space. Large sofas, armchairs, and accent chairs with bold lines and dark tones serve as great anchors for the room. For smaller spaces, opt for slim-lined occasional chairs or compact love seats. Accent tables placed adjacent to the wall can be used to display artwork, vases or books. Remember to leave enough space between pieces of furniture and the brick wall so that it doesn’t appear cluttered. The key is moderation – choose one piece of art or one set of accents per area so your entire design looks effortless yet intentional.
8. Accent Wall
Accent walls are a popular way to add visual interest and dimension to any room. Painting some of the exposed bricks in a bold color can create an eye-catching feature that is sure to be the centerpiece of the area. You can also combine colors, shapes, and textures for a truly unique look. Additionally, you can use stencils or wall decals for special effects and personalization. With a few simple tools and some imagination, you can create a beautiful brick wall that stands out from the crowd.
9. Lights
Hanging lights on brick walls is one of the easiest and most effective ways to accent a brick wall. Lights draw attention to the bricks, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Depending on the type of lights you choose, you can create a range of beautiful effects on the entire wall. For instance, string lights along the top of your brick wall for a gentle glow or hang mini-pendant lights that cast a downward beam of light onto the bricks. Alternatively, install recessed lighting in between bricks with brick clips for an illuminating effect.
When it comes to choosing bulbs and fixtures, there are plenty of options available to suit any design style. To enhance an industrial look, opt for copper or steel light fittings paired with Edison-style bulbs or filament globes. If you want to bring a modern feel to your home décor, try using LED strip lighting or spotlights in bold colors such as teal or pink for a more eye-catching look.
10. Accessories
Mirrors are perfect for reflecting natural light and making a room appear larger. Clocks can be used to spruce up the wall and show off your style. Vases add color, texture, and interesting shapes that draw the eye. Accessories can easily be changed out as often as you’d like to keep up with current trends or simply refresh the look of brick walls.
No matter how you decide to use them, hanging lights around an exposed brick wall is sure to add character and style to any space!