A brick fireplace brings warmth to any room, literally and figuratively. There’s something about exposed brick that just works, whether your style leans modern, rustic, or somewhere in between.
The best part? Brick never really goes out of style. Sure, trends come and go, but a well-designed brick fireplace has been holding its own for decades, and it’s not going anywhere.
Maybe you’re working with an existing brick fireplace and want to freshen it up. Or you’re dreaming about adding one to your space. Either way, brick gives you so many options. You can paint it, leave it natural, surround it with built-ins, or keep things simple.
I’ve pulled together some ideas that show just how versatile brick fireplaces can be. Some are cozy and traditional. Others feel clean and contemporary. A few might surprise you.
The thing about brick is that it adapts. It can be the star of the room or a supporting player. It works in living rooms, bedrooms, even outdoor spaces.
Let’s look at some brick fireplace ideas that have stood the test of time. You might just find the perfect inspiration for your own space.
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Brick Fireplace With Built-In Shelving
Those white built-ins flanking the brick fireplace? They’re doing all the heavy lifting here.
The shelving gives you spots for books, plants, and little decor pieces without making the room feel cluttered. Everything has a place.
I love how the TV sits right on the brick with a wooden box planter underneath. It softens the whole setup and brings in a bit of green. The whitewashed brick keeps things light and airy instead of dark and heavy.
Floor-to-Ceiling Whitewashed Brick
This fireplace goes all the way up to the vaulted ceiling, and that’s the whole point.
When you have height like this, you want to show it off. The whitewashed brick draws your eye up and makes the room feel even bigger than it is.
That wooden mantel and the brick hearth at the bottom add warmth. The layered art on the mantel keeps it from feeling too plain. Sometimes simple is exactly what a space needs.
Herringbone Brick Pattern Feature
The herringbone pattern in the center panel makes this fireplace feel special.
It’s the same brick as the rest of the wall, just arranged differently. That little change is enough to create a focal point without adding anything extra.
The symmetry here is really satisfying. Two windows on either side, gray couches facing each other, and that fireplace right in the middle. It feels balanced and calm.
Vaulted Ceiling With Exposed Beams
Those exposed wooden beams pull your attention straight up.
The brick fireplace sits in an open-concept space, so it has to work hard to define the living area. The beams and the brick together create a cozy corner even though the room is huge.
I like how the TV is tucked into the brick instead of mounted awkwardly above the mantel. It feels more intentional. The woven pendant lights add texture without competing with the brick.
Whitewashed Brick With Classic White Mantel
A white mantel on whitewashed brick is about as classic as it gets.
The coffered ceiling adds some architectural interest up top, and the herringbone firebox pattern is a nice little detail that most people wouldn’t even think to add. But it’s there, and it makes a difference.
The space feels elegant but not stuffy. You could dress it up or keep it casual, and it would work either way.
Covered Patio With Arched Brick Fireplace
An outdoor brick fireplace with an arched opening? That’s the dream.
The brick continues up the wall and across part of the ceiling, which makes the whole patio feel like an extension of the house. It’s not just a fireplace stuck outside. It belongs there.
The white cushioned chairs look so inviting. You can picture yourself sitting there with a blanket and a book on a cool evening.
Rustic Brick With Built-In Nook
The mix of old brick and that soft green built-in nook is unexpected, and it works.
The brick has all this character with different shades of red and brown. It looks weathered and real. The arched nook gives you storage and display space without taking up floor room.
That chunky wooden mantel ties everything together. It’s rough and rustic, just like the brick. Sometimes mismatched textures make a space feel more interesting.
Whitewashed Brick With Arched Mirror
The arched mirror above the mantel echoes the shape of the fireplace opening below.
Repeating shapes like that makes a room feel pulled together. The whitewashed brick is soft and neutral, so the wood mantel really pops.
Those textured ottomans in front are the kind of piece that makes a room feel cozy without trying too hard. And the symmetry of the two chairs? Chef’s kiss.
Cozy Christmas Corner With Exposed Brick
This one’s decked out for the holidays, and it’s giving all the cozy vibes.
The exposed brick stays natural here, all those warm reds and browns. The reclaimed wood mantel holds candles and stars, and there’s a Christmas tree right next to it.
Even without the holiday decor, this setup would feel warm. The brick wood stove insert and the open shelving next to the fireplace make it functional and pretty at the same time.
Two-Story Whitewashed Brick With Wood Beams
When you paint brick white, it completely changes the feel of a room.
This fireplace stretches up two stories, and those chunky wood beams on either side of the mantel add just enough contrast. The room stays bright and open, but the wood keeps it from feeling cold.
Those green velvet pillows? Perfect pop of color. And the woven chandelier plays nicely with the textures in the room.
Sage Green Painted Brick
Painted brick doesn’t have to be white.
This sage green is soft and modern. It makes the fireplace feel like part of the wall instead of a big statement piece. The black and white art above keeps things simple and clean.
Sometimes you don’t want your fireplace to scream for attention. This one just quietly does its thing and looks good doing it.
Gray Brick With Built-In Firewood Storage
The built-in cubbies at the bottom of this fireplace are pure genius.
They give you a spot to store firewood without needing a separate basket or rack. Everything looks neat and intentional. The gray brick feels modern and a little moody.
That oversized art piece above the fireplace adds drama. And the tall windows bring in so much light that the gray brick doesn’t feel heavy at all.
Half-Painted Brick Fireplace
Painting just part of the brick is a nice middle ground.
You get the texture and warmth of exposed brick where it counts, and the white painted surround makes the fireplace feel more polished. The natural wood mantel and beam across the top add even more warmth.
It’s a great option if you love brick but want something that feels a little more refined.
Covered Outdoor Patio With Arched Brick Detail
The arched brick detail above this outdoor fireplace makes it feel custom and high-end.
The covered patio has a wood plank ceiling that contrasts beautifully with the light brick. It’s an outdoor space that feels just as finished as any indoor room.
The gray tile floor is practical for outdoor use but still looks sleek. This is the kind of space you’d want to spend all evening in.
Vaulted Ceiling With Warm Wood Accent
That wood ceiling is stunning.
It follows the angle of the vaulted space and adds so much warmth. The brick fireplace stretches up into it, and the combo of brick and wood just feels right.
The black fireplace insert grounds everything. And I love the little brick hearth at the bottom. It’s a small detail, but it finishes the look.
Outdoor Brick Fireplace With Herringbone Detail
The herringbone pattern inside the firebox adds a custom touch you don’t see every day.
This outdoor setup is framed by white columns, so it feels like a proper room even though it’s outside. The TV mounted on the brick makes it a full entertainment space.
That tufted outdoor furniture and the potted plants make it feel finished. It’s not just a fireplace. It’s a whole outdoor living area.
Whitewashed Brick With Plant Corner
The cluster of plants next to this fireplace completely changes the vibe.
Instead of flanking the fireplace with matching decor, this space leans into a more casual, collected look. The whitewashed brick keeps things light, and the natural wood mantel adds warmth.
I love how the TV is mounted on shiplap instead of directly on the brick. It breaks things up and keeps the brick from feeling too busy.
Exposed Brick With Gray Built-Ins
The gray cabinets and floating shelves on either side of this fireplace give it a modern edge.
The exposed brick stays natural, all those warm tones showing through. But the gray cabinetry cools it down and makes the whole setup feel more current.
Those brass sconces flanking the fireplace? Perfect. They add a little shine without being too much.
Historic Brick Fireplace With Inscription
This fireplace has history written all over it. Literally.
The inscription carved into the brick gives it so much character. You can’t replicate that. The chunky wood mantel and the brick surround make it feel like it belongs in an old chapel or cottage.
The room is painted in soft blues and greens, which keeps the heavy brick from overwhelming the space. It’s cozy without feeling dark.
White Surround With Brick Insert
Sometimes a big white surround is all you need to make a brick fireplace feel more polished.
The exposed brick stays inside the firebox, and the rest is wrapped in crisp white trim. It’s traditional but not boring. That gold mirror above the mantel adds just the right amount of glamour.
The built-in shelving on either side keeps everything balanced. And those pink tulips? A nice soft touch.
Black Tile Fireplace With Wood Accents
This one’s not brick, but it fits the same vibe with a modern twist.
The black tile and the see-through fireplace make it feel like a piece of art. It divides the room without closing it off. The wood ceiling and that pop of green at the base keep it from feeling too stark.
Those colorful pendant lights are playful. They keep the space from taking itself too seriously.
Whitewashed Outdoor Brick With Wood Beam
The mix of whitewashed brick and natural wood makes this outdoor fireplace feel cozy and refined.
The herringbone firebox adds detail, and the wood beam mantel gives you a spot to add decor or just rest your drink. The brick extends up and across, tying the whole patio together.
It’s simple but well done. Sometimes that’s all you need.
Floor-to-Ceiling Brick With Built-In Shelving
The brick goes all the way up, and the built-in shelves on either side give you so much display space.
The natural tones of the brick bring warmth, and the white shelving keeps it from feeling too heavy. You can style those shelves with books, photos, plants, whatever you want.
The TV fits right into the brick, so it doesn’t look like an afterthought. Everything feels intentional.
Whitewashed Farmhouse Brick With Greenery
The white shiplap walls and the whitewashed brick fireplace make this space feel light and airy.
That beaded chandelier and the mirrors above the mantel add a little sparkle. The Christmas garland draped across the mantel is lush and full, and it looks amazing against the white brick.
Even without the holiday decor, this fireplace would feel warm and inviting. The wood mantel keeps it grounded.
Rustic Brick Corner Fireplace
A corner fireplace like this one makes use of space in a way that feels unique.
The exposed brick has so much texture and color variation. That chunky wood beam mantel is rough and rustic, and the candles arranged around the firebox make it feel lived-in.
The antlers mounted on the brick add to the cabin vibe. It’s cozy and a little rugged, which is exactly the point.
FAQs About Brick Fireplace Ideas
Can I paint my brick fireplace for a modern look?
Yes, painting your brick fireplace is one of the easiest ways to modernize it. White, gray, or black painted brick fireplace designs can completely refresh your space while keeping the natural texture. Choose heat-resistant paint and a matte finish for the best result.
What color looks best on a brick fireplace?
Neutral colors like white, beige, charcoal, or soft gray are popular for brick fireplace makeovers. These tones blend well with both modern and farmhouse interiors while highlighting the brick’s natural detail and warmth.
How can I make my old brick fireplace look new again?
You can give an old brick fireplace new life by cleaning the brick, painting or whitewashing it, adding a new mantel, or surrounding it with built-in shelving. Small updates like fresh grout or decorative accents also make a big difference in a fireplace makeover.
Are brick fireplaces still in style?
Absolutely! Brick fireplaces remain timeless because of their natural beauty and durability. Modern brick fireplace ideas now combine classic materials with contemporary finishes, proving that brick will always be a stylish focal point in any home.
What’s the difference between whitewashed and painted brick fireplaces?
A whitewashed brick fireplace keeps some of the natural brick color visible, giving it a soft, rustic feel. A painted brick fireplace, on the other hand, completely covers the surface for a sleek and modern appearance. Both styles have unique charm depending on your decor.
How do I decorate around a brick fireplace?
Decorate with natural wood accents, mirrors, metal frames, or simple artwork to complement the brick texture. Plants, cozy textiles, and candles can also soften the look and make your brick fireplace feel warm and inviting.