To expose or not to expose — THAT is the question. When it comes to exposed brick, there are generally two camps — those that love it and those that hate it. There is not usually an in between. Those that hate it think it looks tacky and outdated. To these naysayers, I would argue “you’re just doing it wrong”.

A modern kitchen with exposed brick splash

I mean, just LOOK at that kitchen! I see nothing tacky our outdated about it. When done correctly, a natural brick wall can do wonders for a space. Natural brick may add visual interest, texture, color, and a cool urban vibe, a modern farmhouse look, or midcentury modern feel to a home.

The inside-outside effect done right with brick

Painted or stained brick can also add depth and color to a space, but that’s a post for another day. Today we will focus on the “au natural” method. This can be done successfully bearing in mind a few rules of thumb:

RULE #1: NO FAUX

Got an old turn-of-century home made of double-withe brick walls covered by plaster? By all means, expose away! Removing some of the plaster to reveal the brick wall behind is a great way to showcase the history of a home while adding a bit of visual interest. However, if you live in a newer construction wood framed home that clearly has no brick to be seen for miles, for the love of god, do NOT add faux brick to your walls! Nothing looks cheesier.

So much added character here! you can almost feel the history of this room

A modern farmhouselook — historical yet refined

RULE #2 : USE IN MODERATION

When determining which wall(s) to expose, bear in mind the old Mies van der Rohe coined adage “less is more”.  Stick with one wall that will add a little drama without taking over the space.

 Two or three adjacent walls exposed here create the feeling of a “room within a room” which defines the dining area

 A single brick wall here defines the living room area and creates visual interest behind the sofa

RULE #3 : K.I.S.S.

For the biggest impact, you want the brick wall to be the focal point. For this reason, keep other accent walls to a minimum.  An exposed natural brick wall surrounded by minimal, crisp white (or lightly colored) walls maintains a clean look and lets the brick be the star. Keep other decor items to a minimum.

 The crisp white, modern surroundings balance the busy brick pattern

A simple neutral color palette keeps the busyness at bay in a more eclectic space

So there you have it! Thinking of exposing a brick wall? Follow these simple rules and expose with confidence.

Recently exposed a brick wall? How did it turn out?  Add your comments/stories/questions below.