Exterior design plays a crucial role in enhancing curb appeal, and understanding how color theory influences perceptions can transform a house into a home. Sherwin-Williams, a leader in paint technology, offers a vast palette to complement various architectural styles. The selection of appropriate shades is particularly important when dealing with orange brick; therefore, expertly chosen orange brick house colors can create a stunning visual impact, harmonizing with both the natural brick tones and the surrounding landscaping to achieve a cohesive and inviting aesthetic.
Image taken from the YouTube channel Omni Home Ideas , from the video titled 10 Best Paint Colors for Red Brick Homes .
Unlocking Curb Appeal: Choosing the Right Paint Colors for Your Orange Brick House
Choosing paint colors for an orange brick house can feel daunting, but the right choices can transform your home from ordinary to outstanding. This guide breaks down the best strategies for complementing your existing brickwork and creating a cohesive and visually appealing exterior. We’ll focus on understanding the undertones in your brick, selecting harmonious trim colors, and incorporating accent hues for a truly personalized look.
Understanding Your Orange Brick
Before grabbing a brush, it’s vital to analyze the specific shade and undertones of your orange brick. Not all orange brick is created equal. Consider these points:
- Observe the Subtle Variations: Is your brick a true, vibrant orange, or does it lean towards terracotta, rust, or even have hints of brown or pink? This subtle difference will significantly influence your paint color choices.
- Consider the Mortar Color: The color of the mortar between the bricks also plays a crucial role. Is it gray, white, cream, or a shade of tan? The mortar provides a constant visual element that needs to be considered alongside the brick.
- Lighting Conditions: The way sunlight hits your house throughout the day will affect how the brick color appears. Observe the brick at different times of the day – morning, noon, and evening – to get a complete picture of its hue.
Harmonious Trim Colors: Creating a Cohesive Look
The trim is crucial for framing your orange brick and creating a polished appearance.
Classic Neutrals: Timeless and Reliable
Neutral colors offer a safe and versatile starting point. They provide a clean backdrop that allows the orange brick to be the star of the show.
- Creamy Whites: A warm, creamy white can soften the boldness of orange brick and create a welcoming and inviting feel. Avoid stark, cool whites which can clash with the brick’s warmth.
- Beiges and Tans: Depending on the undertones of your brick, a beige or tan with warm undertones can complement the brick and create a cohesive look. Look for shades with hints of yellow or orange for a harmonious blend.
- Grays (Proceed with Caution): Gray can be tricky with orange brick. Opt for warm grays or "greiges" (gray-beige blends) that have subtle brown undertones. Avoid cool, blue-toned grays, as they can make the orange brick look dated.
Contrasting Colors: Making a Bold Statement
For a more dramatic effect, consider using contrasting colors for your trim.
- Deep Greens: Dark greens, such as forest green or hunter green, offer a beautiful contrast to orange brick. This combination creates a sophisticated and natural aesthetic.
- Charcoal Gray/Black: A dark charcoal gray or even black trim can provide a modern and striking contrast, especially for contemporary homes. This combination makes the orange brick appear richer and more vibrant.
- Navy Blue: A deep navy blue can create a nautical-inspired look. Choose a navy with warm undertones to complement the brick’s warmth.
Example Scenarios: Matching Trim to Brick
To help you visualize, consider these examples:
| Brick Color | Mortar Color | Recommended Trim Color(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Bright, True Orange | Light Gray | Creamy White, Charcoal Gray |
| Terracotta (Orange-Red) | Tan | Beige, Forest Green |
| Rusty Orange (Orange-Brown) | Cream | Tan with Yellow Undertones, Navy Blue |
| Orange with Pink Undertones | White | Warm White with Pink undertones, Light Beige |
Accent Colors: Adding Personality and Flair
Beyond the trim, accent colors can be incorporated to highlight specific architectural features or add a pop of personality.
Doors and Shutters: Points of Interest
- Natural Wood Tones: A stained wood door in a warm tone (cherry, mahogany) can complement the brick and add a touch of elegance.
- Jewel Tones: Consider rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, or amethyst purple for a front door that truly stands out. Make sure the undertones work well with both the brick and trim.
- Black: A classic black front door is always a stylish choice and pairs well with most orange brick shades.
Landscaping: Extending the Color Palette
Landscaping provides another opportunity to enhance your home’s curb appeal.
- Greenery: Lush greenery, such as shrubs, trees, and flowering plants, will always complement orange brick.
- Flowering Plants: Choose flowers in shades of white, purple, blue, or yellow to create a balanced and visually appealing landscape. Avoid planting flowers that are the exact same shade of orange as the brick.
- Hardscaping: Consider using natural stone elements, such as walkways and retaining walls, to complement the brick and landscaping.
Testing Your Choices
Before committing to a full paint job, it is essential to test your chosen colors.
- Paint Samples: Purchase small samples of your chosen colors and paint them on a large piece of cardboard. Observe the colors at different times of the day and in various lighting conditions.
- Placement Matters: Place the painted cardboard next to the brick and trim to see how the colors interact with each other.
- Consider Undertones: Pay close attention to the undertones of the colors and ensure they complement the brick’s undertones.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose paint colors that will enhance your orange brick house and create a beautiful and inviting home.
FAQs About Paint Colors That Make Orange Brick Houses POP!
What are the best neutral paint colors for an orange brick house?
Classic creams, warm grays, and even some muted greens offer fantastic contrast without clashing. These neutral tones allow the warmth of your orange brick house colors to truly shine, creating a balanced and inviting exterior.
Will bright white trim work with orange brick?
Bright white trim can be tricky. It can sometimes make orange brick houses appear stark. Opt for off-whites or creams for a softer, more harmonious look that complements the brick’s natural tones.
What accent colors should I avoid when painting my orange brick house?
Avoid anything too close to orange, like shades of red or overly bright yellows, as this can create a monotonous effect. Cool colors, like blues or purples (especially in their brighter forms), can sometimes clash as well. Consider sampling paint colors before committing.
Can I paint my front door a bold color if I have an orange brick house?
Absolutely! A bold front door in a complementary color, like navy blue, deep teal, or even a charcoal gray, can create a welcoming focal point. Be sure the color flows with the overall design and doesn’t fight with the orange brick house colors.
And that’s the scoop on making your orange brick house colors *really* sing! Hopefully, you’re feeling inspired to get creative. Let me know what you come up with!