For those looking for an industrial chic vibe, exposed brick is often an attractive architectural element. Despite the appeal and beauty, exposed brick has its positives and negatives. How do you hang artwork or mirrors? Should the brick be left raw or should it be painted? Designers have their own do’s and don’ts when it comes to maintaining the beauty of brick.
An exposed brick wall serves as the focal point in this bedroom. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
Here are some top tips:
Do’s
1. Do use leaning mirrors. Leaning mirrors allow you to add them as a visual element without having to worry about hanging them.
A living room with an exposed brick wall is paired with black and brass accents. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
2. Do incorporate other industrial elements into your space such as steel and wood.
An exposed brick wall serves as the focal point in this bedroom. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
3. Do leave exposed brick unpainted if looking to preserve the natural element and appeal of exposed brick.
Exposed brick is left untouched in order to enhance an industrial feel. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
Dont’s
1. Don’t ignore the opportunity to hang artwork. Certain drill bits will allow a screw for hanging purposes.
Graphic artwork helps to provide an industrial feel in this den space. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
2. Don’t avoid opportunities to showcase exposed brick in interesting ways such as a natural backsplash or architectural focal point.
An exposed brick wall is preserved and highlighted in this industrial kitchen space. Scott Gabriel Morris/TNS
3. Don’t paint exposed brick without incorporating a primer, as it will be difficult otherwise to achieve full coverage.
Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at [email protected] or visit her website at cathyhobbs.com.
