red brick fireplace

How to Decorate a Red Brick Fireplace

house Admin Mar 19, 2024

How to Decorate a Red Brick Fireplace: A Guide to Enhancing Your Focal Point

A red brick fireplace is a timeless feature that adds warmth, character, and charm to any home. Whether your fireplace is a vintage centerpiece or a modern addition, decorating it can transform the entire look and feel of your living space. However, styling a red brick fireplace can be a bit tricky—its bold color and texture can either clash with your decor or become the star of the room. With the right approach, you can create a cohesive and stylish design that highlights your fireplace while complementing your overall aesthetic. Here’s how to decorate a red brick fireplace like a pro.



1. Decide on a Style Direction



Before diving into decor, consider the overall style you want to achieve. Red brick is versatile and can work with a variety of design themes, including:

  • Rustic: Embrace the natural, earthy tones of the brick with cozy textures like wood, leather, and woven baskets.
  • Modern: Balance the traditional look of brick with sleek, minimalist decor and neutral tones.
  • Farmhouse: Pair the brick with shiplap, whitewashed accents, and vintage-inspired decor.
  • Eclectic: Mix and match patterns, colors, and textures to create a bold, personalized look.

Once you’ve chosen a style, it will be easier to select decor elements that harmonize with the fireplace.



2. Consider Painting or Whitewashing the Brick



If the red brick feels too overpowering or doesn’t match your decor, consider painting or whitewashing it. This can soften the look and make the fireplace more versatile:

  • Painting: A fresh coat of white, black, or gray paint can modernize the fireplace and make it a blank canvas for your decor.
  • Whitewashing: This technique allows some of the brick’s natural texture and color to show through while toning down the red hue.

If you prefer to keep the brick in its original state, skip this step and focus on decor that complements its natural warmth.



3. Style the Mantel



The mantel is the perfect spot to showcase your personality and tie the room together. Here are some ideas for styling it:

  • Layered Artwork: Hang a large mirror or piece of art above the mantel to create a focal point. Layer smaller frames or decorative objects in front for depth.
  • Seasonal Decor: Switch out decor items with the seasons—think garlands and candles for winter, fresh flowers for spring, and pumpkins for fall.
  • Symmetrical Arrangements: For a clean, balanced look, place matching vases, candlesticks, or book stacks on either side of the mantel.
  • Eclectic Displays: Mix and match items like plants, books, sculptures, and family photos for a more personal touch.



4. Incorporate Textures and Materials



Red brick has a strong visual presence, so balancing it with complementary textures and materials is key:

  • Wood: Add warmth with wooden elements like a reclaimed wood mantel, floating shelves, or a rustic log holder.
  • Metal: Introduce metallic accents, such as brass candle holders or a sleek steel fireplace tool set, to add contrast and sophistication.
  • Textiles: Soften the look with cozy textiles like a woven rug, throw blankets, or linen curtains.



5. Accessorize the Hearth



The area around the fireplace, known as the hearth, is another opportunity to enhance the space:

  • Fireplace Tools: Display a stylish set of fireplace tools for both function and aesthetics.
  • Decorative Screens: Use a decorative fire screen to add visual interest and safety.
  • Plants: Place potted plants or greenery on the hearth to bring life and color to the space.
  • Candles or Lanterns: Group candles or lanterns on the hearth for a cozy, inviting glow.



6. Lighting Matters



Proper lighting can highlight your fireplace and create a warm ambiance:

  • Sconces: Install wall sconces on either side of the fireplace for a classic, elegant look.
  • Overhead Lighting: Use a statement chandelier or pendant light to draw attention to the fireplace.
  • Candles: Arrange candles on the mantel or hearth for a soft, flickering glow.



7. Create a Cozy Seating Area



A fireplace is meant to be enjoyed, so arrange your furniture to make it a gathering spot:

  • Place a comfortable armchair or sofa facing the fireplace to create a cozy reading nook.
  • Add an area rug to anchor the seating area and tie the room together.
  • Use ottomans or poufs for additional seating and a relaxed vibe.



8. Don’t Forget the Surrounding Walls



The walls around your fireplace can enhance its impact:

  • Accent Wall: Paint the surrounding wall a bold color or use wallpaper to create a striking backdrop.
  • Shelving: Install floating shelves or built-ins on either side of the fireplace for additional storage and display space.
  • Gallery Wall: Create a gallery wall with a mix of artwork, photos, and decorative objects to frame the fireplace.



9. Keep It Balanced



When decorating a red brick fireplace, balance is key. Avoid overcrowding the space with too many decor items. Instead, focus on a few well-chosen pieces that complement the fireplace and enhance the room’s overall design.



10. Embrace the Brick’s Natural Beauty



Finally, don’t forget to let the red brick shine. Its rich color and texture are inherently beautiful, so sometimes less is more. A simple, understated approach can allow the fireplace to stand out as the stunning focal point it was meant to be.



By following these tips, you can create a beautifully decorated red brick fireplace that reflects your personal style and enhances the warmth and character of your home. Whether you choose to embrace the brick’s natural charm or give it a modern update, your fireplace will become a cherished centerpiece in your living space.