35+ Beautiful Painted Brick Fireplace Ideas And Designs
Updating a brick fireplace can be a straightforward and budget-friendly process. One approach is to simply apply a fresh coat of paint directly onto the bricks. This method can produce a striking visual transformation, but it’s crucial to choose a color that harmonizes with your home’s interior design. To help you get started, we’ve curated a selection of painted brick fireplace ideas that showcase various styles and designs.
From modern to rustic, these examples demonstrate how a well-plainted brick fireplace can elevate the ambiance of any room.
How to paint brick fireplace
Painting a brick fireplace offers an affordable way to revamp the area, and the best part is that you can DIY to save on labor costs. If you’re considering this route, follow these steps to achieve a stunning look. Start by thoroughly cleaning the surface of your brick fireplace using a heavy-duty cleaner. Be sure to wear protective gear like gloves and goggles during the process.
Once clean, rinse the surface and allow it to dry completely before setting up a drop cloth and taping off areas you don’t want to get paint on. For added protection against soot stains, prime the brick fireplace with an oil-based, stain-blocking primer. Next, use a stiff-bristled brush to cover any crevices or cracks in the surface. Allow the area to dry completely before applying a heat-resistant latex paint specifically designed for textured surfaces.
Use a small brush for those hard-to-reach areas and touch up as needed. Painting your brick fireplace is a straightforward process that allows you to add color with ease.
35 painted brick fireplace before and after ideas
White painted brick fireplace
Transforming a brick fireplace with white paint is an excellent way to achieve a versatile and elegant look that can complement any interior design style. The brightness of white brings in natural light, creating crisp lines that effortlessly blend with any color scheme. When paired with black, it forms a timeless and sophisticated combination. For a bold statement piece, consider pairing a glossy white finish with minimal black contrast.
This striking visual effect instantly elevates the room’s ambiance. Alternatively, you can opt for a more understated look by refinishing the wood mantle to create a harmonious blend of textures and colors. White on white is not only visually appealing but also offers an opportunity to refresh and modernize a traditional brick fireplace. By incorporating warm tones through stained wood mantels or adding subtle pops of color, you can create a cohesive look that ties in with the surrounding decor.
In addition to painting the brick surface, consider updating the mantel and firebox design for a fresh take on a classic look. A chalk-painted finish can add a charming shabby chic flair to your living room, while a revamped mantel and firebox design can provide a unique twist. Ultimately, transforming your brick fireplace with white paint offers endless possibilities for creating a beautiful focal point that reflects your personal style.
Modern painted brick fireplace
Innovative transformations are possible when conventional elements meet modern design principles. Brick, often associated with traditional aesthetics, can be reimagined to fit contemporary styles. By incorporating symmetry, monochromes, and clean lines, a dark and ordinary brick fireplace can be transformed into a modern marvel using the same bricks.
A striking example is the makeover of this corner fireplace, where the reddish and orange tones were replaced with a tapioca beige tone at an affordable cost of $145. This was achieved through a thorough cleaning, two coats of paint, and voila, a sleek modern corner gas fireplace emerged. The key to success lies in embracing simplicity and cleanliness, allowing the natural beauty of the brick to shine through.
In contrast, this second example features a more dramatic overhaul, where not only the brick fireplace but also three corners of the entire living room were repainted with white glossy paint. The mantel, hearth, side cabinets, carpeting, and furniture underwent a modern mid-century transformation, resulting in a cohesive look that is both fresh and inviting.
If you desire to shift your cottage-style living room into a shabby chic design, consider replacing rich brown tones with a minimalist white look, featuring a newly painted blue-gray brick backdrop and white mortar. The top half of the fireplace was replaced with modern paneled wood, while the overall effect was a harmonious balance of gray, white, and ivory tones that matched the updated room.
In another instance, a raw and rugged bedroom retreat was transformed into a seemingly floating painted brick fireplace, accompanied by updated furniture, cabinets, and a newer TV model. The incorporation of modern flair in this transformation is nothing short of astonishing.
Black painted brick fireplace
Painting your brick fireplace with black can add a touch of modern elegance and sophistication to any room. The key is to balance the boldness of the color with complementary elements, such as white accents or lighter surrounding walls. For example, pairing black painted brick with coral white accents can create a dramatic and inviting atmosphere.
In some cases, painting the entire fireplace, including the concrete walls and brick inlays, can completely transform its look from conventional to vintage-inspired. Additionally, highlighting a floor-to-ceiling fireplace with an all-black finish can make it stand out as a focal point in the room. Whether you’re aiming for a modern Victorian or autumnal vibe, painting your brick fireplace black can be a simple yet effective way to give your space a fresh and stylish look.
Gray painted brick fireplace
When it comes to refreshing a vintage brick fireplace, a splash of gray paint can be a great way to give it a minimalist makeover. A softer hue than dark brown or black, gray is perfect for creating an edgy, moody tone that complements light brown, beige, and white brick colors. One approach is to retouch an old fireplace with gray paint, creating a cohesive look by extending the color from floor to ceiling. This can be paired with warm, stained wood flooring to add some contrast.
The mantel can also be updated with sleek black accents, while the firebox can be replaced with a modern design. Another option is to keep the minimalist mantel and update the firebox with a bold new color, such as olive green. This can be paired with neutral walls in beige and moss green, creating a balanced look that speaks for itself. For a more subtle approach, you can create a cohesive gray tone by painting the walls, floor, and fireplace uniform gray.
The thoughtful placement of family pictures on the mantel can add an intimate touch to this understated design. By focusing on details like gray tones and accent decors, you can create a charming, misty look that’s perfect for a modern suburban home. Alternatively, you can take inspiration from a previously burnt umber brick fireplace and transform it into hand-painted shades of gray.
This minimalist approach creates a modern, edgy vibe that adds to the overall aesthetic of an asymmetrical living room.
Rustic painted brick fireplace
Rustic design schemes never go out of style. The charm of hearth and home is undeniable when infused with this timeless aesthetic. Distressed brick and rich tones of brown and red evoke a cozy atmosphere that’s hard to resist. While whitewashing is well-known, mortar washing is an underrated technique for achieving a rustic, distressed look on a brick fireplace. In this example, the brick is softened by mortar wash, and the gold firebox enclosure is replaced with an all-black case.
For a rustic-themed holiday with family, consider refurbishing your old-school reddish-brown fireplace to create a lighter, more modern atmosphere. Add some carefully chosen trinkets to line the mantel and hearth, and you’ll keep the holiday spirit burning bright and warm throughout the season. If you think lightening up a brown-toned brick fireplace would mean sacrificing its rustic charm, consider repainting it in a sandy color instead.
This transition creates a balanced, contemporary look that’s both cozy and inviting. To achieve an edgy, rustic mood for your fireplace, start with an ordinary-looking red brick fireplace and give it a fresh coat of teal paint. Frame the entire space with a bold, thick wood mantle to create a striking focal point. Update the firebox by replacing the formerly bronze enclosure with a black one, and add a wood rack on the corner to bring in a natural element.
Whitewash painted brick fireplace
Whitewashing brick is another budget-friendly remodeling scheme that can elevate a space. The process involves applying a thin layer of watered-down paint, giving the brick a soft, washed appearance. This technique can be used to create a range of looks, from distressed farmhouse vibes to chic farmhouse designs. For example, a simple whitewash and minimal accent pieces like a wood mantel or star centerpiece can transform a fireplace into a cozy focal point.
The versatility of whitewashing is demonstrated by its ability to complement various styles, such as the warm tones of an old Craftsman home or the sleek black trim of a modern design. In one example, dull army green paint was used to add color to shelving and mantel, while the fireplace enclosure was updated with a new glass and gold trim. If you prefer to maintain the original look, a thin coat of white paint can also create a clean and elegant appearance.
This technique is not only budget-friendly but also effective in covering up soot-stained brick and preventing future discoloration.
Dark grey painted brick fireplace
Transforming your brick fireplace with dark grey paint can elevate its modern, industrial, and minimalist appeal. This moody hue creates a warm and cozy atmosphere while maintaining a sophisticated edge. The charcoal grey makeover of a previously whitewashed brick surround is particularly striking in a bright walled living room, where the white hearth tiles add a polished touch. For a more ornate approach, consider investing in a two-toned gray brick fireplace with a decorative firebox.
A pastel walled room can be transformed into a shabby chic space with a dark grey brick makeover. To add texture to your design, try painting a conventional-looking central fireplace matte grey and balancing the tone with playful accent decors on the mantel and raised hearth. The contrast between stained wood flooring and a dark grey brick fireplace adds a contemporary touch.
For a low-maintenance renovation option, consider painting only half of the brick surround in cement grey, which can already produce a stunning effect.
Bright painted brick fireplace
When it comes to revamping a traditional brick fireplace, the possibilities are endless. You can transform it into a vibrant and modern focal point that adds a pop of color to your living room. One way to achieve this is by choosing bold, bright paints that deviate from the conventional red tones. For instance, you could opt for a blue-green hue that complements the natural surroundings and creates a cozy atmosphere.
To take it to the next level, incorporate potted plants around the raised hearth and update the stained wood mantle with a modern twist. This bold makeover can completely revamp the space, making it feel fresh and inviting. You could also consider a dramatic color change by painting the bricks in a bold, green shade that adds a statement piece to your room. The result is a stunning focal point that draws attention and sets the tone for a lively atmosphere.
Alternatively, you could take inspiration from natural tones like beige and old towns, and opt for a more subtle makeover. Here, the traditional brick tones are softened to a sandy, limestone color, with white mortar providing contrast. This understated approach can create a warm and inviting space that exudes a sense of coziness and comfort.
FAQs
When exploring the world of painted brick fireplaces, it’s essential to consider not only the aesthetic appeal but also the practical aspects of the process. To ensure a successful DIY endeavor, it’s crucial to choose the right paint for your brick fireplace. With that in mind, here are some frequently asked questions and key considerations to keep in mind as you navigate this project:
What color to paint a brick fireplace?
Brick fireplaces boast a diverse palette of hues, spanning reds, browns, and earthy tones. While the range of options is virtually limitless, neutral shades offer an added layer of versatility and ease of use. Whether you’re looking to complement or contrast surrounding decor, selecting from different neutrals can yield impressive results.
What color to paint the fireplace surround?
When it comes to painting the fireplace surround, sticking to neutral colors is generally the way to go. This is because they lack strong warm or cool tones that can clash with other design elements. In fact, these versatile hues are capable of complementing any color scheme without disrupting the overall aesthetic. If you’re looking to add a touch of brightness to the space, a crisp white tone is an excellent choice.
Alternatively, opting for gray, off-white, beige, or brown can help soften the appearance of the brick fireplace and create a more inviting atmosphere.
Can you paint tile around a fireplace?
When tackling a tile fireplace makeover, it’s crucial to understand that direct painting is not enough. The process involves more than just giving the surface a good clean, applying a coat of primer, and finishing with paint. Instead, you need to sand the tile until it reaches a polished state, allowing the paint to adhere properly. Alternatively, if manual labor isn’t your thing, consider using a specialized bonding primer specifically designed for tiles.
What is a good finish for a brick fireplace’s mantel?
While traditional oil-based paint finishes remain the top choice for brick fireplace mantels, some homeowners may have heard of intumescent coating as an alternative. However, it’s essential to understand its limitations. This type of coating does offer high resistance, but one significant drawback is that it can puff up when exposed to prolonged heat. As a result, while recommended, it’s not the most ideal solution for maintaining a mantel’s appearance and functionality.
Is a painted brick fireplace high maintenance?
While naked brick may be considered low maintenance compared to its painted counterpart, it’s not entirely maintenance-free. However, with proper painting techniques and the right choice of paint, the upkeep requirements for both types of fireplaces can be remarkably similar. A well-painted surface can make all the difference in terms of ease of maintenance, rendering the distinction between naked and painted brick fireplaces relatively negligible.
Does painting brick ruin the material in the long run?
The quality of a brick’s paint job plays a significant role in determining its performance. When poorly painted, bricks tend to absorb more moisture than their unpainted counterparts. In contrast, an expertly executed painting job can ensure the longevity of the brickwork, potentially lasting for centuries with only occasional touch-ups required over time.
Paint colors that go with a red brick fireplace
When considering a red brick fireplace, many people assume it’s limited to specific color combinations. However, with a little creativity, this timeless feature can be paired with an impressive range of hues. Some unexpected yet harmonious matches include orange, blue, and various shades of green like sage and turquoise. Additionally, you might be surprised by how well warm gray, white, and tan complement the rich tone of the red brick.
Which is better: To stain or paint on a brick fireplace?
When considering how to enhance a brick fireplace, two approaches stand out: staining or painting. If ease is the primary concern, staining is likely the better option. In terms of aesthetic freedom, however, painting offers greater creative liberty, allowing for a more drastic transformation. Conversely, staining brings out the natural warmth and gloss of the bricks, offering a unique decorative appeal that can’t be replicated with painting alone.
Are red brick fireplaces already outdated?
While opinions may vary, from a home development perspective, a well-maintained red brick fireplace can still be a valuable feature in a home. Nevertheless, modern trends such as whitewashing, mortar washing and brick painting have introduced new dynamics that impact the resale value of homes with traditional fireplaces compared to those that have undergone renovations, making it an important consideration for homeowners.
How much does it cost to paint brick fireplaces?
When it comes to fireplace remodeling on a budget, painted brick fireplaces offer a cost-effective solution. While not the cheapest option available, painting your brick fireplace can be a relatively affordable choice, with an average cost of $4 per square foot. However, prices can range from $200 to $800 for the most extensive projects. This makes it an attractive alternative for homeowners looking to give their fireplaces a fresh new look without breaking the bank.
What kind of paint should be used in brick fireplaces?
When it comes to painting brick fireplaces, indoor, high-resistant, latex paints (flat, semi-gloss, or gloss) are the recommended choice. To ensure a successful outcome, opt for a latex paint with a 200F temperature grade. It’s essential to note that these paints should only be used on the exterior of the fireplace, never on the firebox’s interior surface.
Conclusion
In conclusion, painted brick fireplaces offer an affordable means of revitalizing outdated designs. The versatility of options and techniques allows for a diverse range of design schemes to be explored. Moreover, the DIY-friendly nature of this project, combined with its cost-effectiveness, enables you to refresh your brick fireplace’s aesthetic at any time. This list provides a wealth of inspiration for you to tap into.
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