How many of us have admired the warm, textured look of an exposed brick wall and wondered where that rough-but-refined charm comes from? Its roots stretch from Neo-Gothic churches to Victorian-era factories and townhouses, where red and brown brick developed a weathered, timeless appeal. Today, exposed brick conveys history, craftsmanship and authenticity in contemporary interiors.
Not everyone lives in a brick building, but creating an exposed-brick effect—whether by constructing a real partition, revealing an existing brick wall, or choosing veneers and finishes—has become accessible. Technology and modern materials make it easier to add this tactile, architectural feature to living rooms, bedrooms, offices and dining areas.
by Marie Burgos Design
by Todd Davis Architecture
Using Real Brick
Building a genuine brick wall inside your home delivers an unmistakable depth and texture. Modern tools help you plan the work: a common rule of thumb is about 60 bricks per single-layer square meter, though exact numbers depend on brick size and mortar joints. Interior partition walls typically do not require deep foundations, but you will likely need to remove the floor finish down to the screed to secure the bottom course.
Select good-quality bricks and suitable mortar—either pre-mixed or mixed to the right strength on site. For larger installations, a concrete mixer saves time and effort. The most important tasks are laying bricks so their joints align correctly and using consistent mortar coverage for stability and appearance.
If you already have a plastered brick wall and want to reveal the original masonry, the process is straightforward but messy. Protect floors and furnishings with heavy-duty plastic sheeting, then use a spatula or chisel to remove paint and render. Once cleaned, bricks can be brushed, sealed or lacquered for a smoother, more finished surface. Alternatively, one or two coats of paint applied directly to the exposed brick produce a monochromatic, contemporary look that still highlights brick texture and relief.
by Designed To Appeal
Brick Veneer and Tiles
If your walls lack the mass or structural capacity for full brick, brick veneer or brick tiles are excellent alternatives. Manufactured brick tiles come in numerous sizes, colors and bonding patterns and can be applied to most interior walls. Cultured stone and thin brick veneers mimic the look of full masonry while reducing weight and installation time. These options allow you to introduce the warmth and texture of brick without major structural work.
Brick Wallpaper
For a faster, less permanent solution, consider high-quality brick-effect wallpaper. A convincing brick wallpaper provides the visual impact of exposed brick with minimal cost and effort. It’s ideal for rental properties or rooms where you want a temporary decorative statement. Though not as tactile as real brick or tiles, modern printed and textured wallpapers can be surprisingly realistic and are easy to change if you redecorate.
by Elad Gonen & Zeev Beech / Architect : Gili Reshef Gol (Art of Space)
Customize and Style
An exposed brick wall can be a focal point or a subtle backdrop. Combine it with dark wood shelving, metal or glass accents, framed artwork or mirrors to balance the rough texture with softer or more refined elements. Built-in niches, plastered shelving or timber frames add functionality and visual interest. Lighting plays a major role: wall washers or spotlights emphasize brick texture and deepen the sense of warmth.
Courtesy of RealBrickTile.com
Why choose an exposed brick wall? Beyond its aesthetic appeal, brick signals solidity, history and honest materials. Left natural, painted, or paired with glass, metal and wood, exposed brick adds character and texture that can anchor a room’s design. Whether you opt for the permanence of real brick, the convenience of veneer, or the flexibility of wallpaper, an exposed brick wall remains a timeless way to introduce warmth and architectural interest to any interior.
by Elad Gonen & Zeev Beech
by valerie pasquiou interiors + design
by Marie Burgos Design
by Hammer Architects