Integrating brick into a bathroom design creates a striking balance between rugged texture and modern luxury. Whether you are aiming for an industrial loft aesthetic or a cozy farmhouse retreat, the versatility of brick is unmatched in interior design. This material brings warmth, history, and a unique architectural element that standard drywall or basic tiling simply cannot replicate. From reclaimed red bricks that tell a story to sleek, painted white surfaces that brighten a small space, the options are endless. Exploring different ways to incorporate this timeless material will help you transform a functional room into a sophisticated sanctuary that feels both grounded and incredibly stylish.
1. Exposed red brick wall
Does the sight of raw, earthy tones make you feel more connected to your home’s history? An exposed red brick wall serves as a powerful focal point that anchors the entire bathroom with its rich texture and organic warmth. To make this look work, it is essential to seal the brick properly to protect it from moisture while maintaining its natural matte finish. Pairing this rugged backdrop with a sleek, freestanding white bathtub creates a beautiful contrast between old-world charm and contemporary elegance. This design choice works exceptionally well in spaces with high ceilings where the verticality of the brick can truly shine.
2. White painted brick
Have you ever wondered how to keep the texture of brick without the heavy, dark aesthetic of natural clay? A white painted brick bathroom offers the perfect solution by reflecting light and making any space feel significantly larger and airier. This approach is highly popular in Scandinavian and modern farmhouse designs because it provides a clean, monochromatic canvas that still possesses depth. The subtle shadows created by the uneven surfaces of the brick add a layer of sophistication that flat walls lack. When you combine white brick with light wood vanities and matte black fixtures, the result is a crisp, refreshed environment that feels peaceful.
3. Brick shower
Imagine stepping into a shower that feels like a private grotto or a hidden urban spa. Using brick tile for a shower surround is a bold move that brings an unexpected architectural detail to the most functional part of the room. Since real brick is porous, many homeowners opt for high-quality porcelain or ceramic tiles that mimic the look of brick but offer superior water resistance. These tiles are easier to clean and do not require the constant resealing that natural masonry demands. Whether you choose a classic red or a moody charcoal, a brick-lined shower creates an immersive, tactile experience every morning.
4. Industrial brick
Industrial aesthetics often celebrate the raw beauty of structural materials, and brick is the undisputed king of this style. To achieve an industrial brick look, focus on combining weathered masonry with metal accents like exposed copper piping, steel-framed mirrors, and concrete countertops. This style thrives on a "found" or repurposed feel, making it ideal for urban lofts or basement renovations. The key is to let the imperfections of the brick—such as chipped edges or varied mortar colors—take center stage. Adding Edison bulb lighting can further enhance the amber glow of the clay, creating a space that feels both edgy and incredibly welcoming.
5. Reclaimed brick wall
Using materials that carry a sense of history can give your bathroom a soul that new construction often lacks. A reclaimed brick wall utilizes salvaged masonry from old buildings, offering a level of character and patina that is impossible to manufacture. Each brick may have unique markings, color variations, and weathered textures that tell a silent story of the past. When used as an accent wall behind a double vanity, reclaimed brick provides a warm, rustic backdrop that complements both vintage and modern fixtures. It is a sustainable choice that adds significant visual weight and timeless appeal to your personal home sanctuary.
6. Brick floor
Walking across a brick floor provides a tactile sensation that is both grounding and slip-resistant, making it a practical choice for bathroom environments. While traditional bricks are too thick for most flooring applications, thin brick pavers are designed specifically for this purpose. These pavers offer the same aesthetic as full-sized bricks but can be installed just like regular tile. A brick floor adds a sense of permanence and architectural interest underfoot, especially when paired with simple white walls. To ensure longevity, the floor must be sealed to prevent water absorption and staining, resulting in a durable surface that ages beautifully over several decades.
7. Black brick
Darker palettes can transform a standard bathroom into a moody, high-end retreat that feels like a luxury hotel suite. Black brick offers a sophisticated take on traditional masonry, providing a deep, saturated color that highlights the natural texture of the material. This look is particularly effective when used as a feature wall behind a white porcelain sink or a gold-framed mirror. The contrast between the dark, matte brick and shiny metallic or ceramic surfaces creates a dramatic visual impact. Black brick also hides imperfections well and provides a modern, masculine edge that works beautifully in contemporary or transitional home design projects.
8. Gray brick tile
Gray tones offer a neutral and versatile foundation that bridges the gap between traditional and modern design styles. Gray brick tile provides the look of weathered stone or aged masonry while maintaining a clean and cohesive appearance. This color choice is excellent for those who want the texture of brick without the warmth of red or the starkness of black. Light gray brick can make a small bathroom feel more open, while dark slate gray adds a sense of coziness and intimacy. Pairing gray brick with chrome fixtures and marble accents creates a sophisticated, layered look that remains stylish for many years.
9. Herringbone brick
The pattern in which you lay your brick can be just as impactful as the material itself. A herringbone brick layout adds a sense of movement and geometric interest to either walls or floors. This classic pattern involves placing the bricks at a forty-five-degree angle to create a series of "V" shapes. In a bathroom, a herringbone brick floor can make a narrow space feel wider and more intentional. It is a timeless technique that elevates the humble brick into a decorative masterpiece. Using a contrasting grout color can further emphasize the intricate pattern, making the floor the undeniable star of the entire room.
10. Brick backsplash
A vanity area is the perfect place to introduce a small but impactful dose of texture. A brick backsplash provides a rugged, interesting alternative to standard glass or ceramic tiles. Because the backsplash is a vertical surface away from the direct spray of the shower, it is a safer place to use real, unglazed brick. This architectural detail adds depth and warmth to the space where you start and end your day. When paired with a modern floating vanity and integrated lighting, a brick backsplash creates a stunning interplay of shadows and light that enhances the overall ambiance of the bathroom.
11. Rustic brick
Rustic charm is all about embracing natural materials and a lived-in feel, making brick an ideal component. To achieve a rustic brick look, look for varieties with heavy texture, uneven edges, and a mix of warm terracotta and brown hues. This style pairs beautifully with reclaimed wood beams, wrought iron hardware, and woven baskets for storage. The goal is to create a space that feels like a cozy mountain cabin or a rural farmhouse. Rustic brick doesn't need to be perfect; in fact, its flaws are what provide the character and comfort that make a bathroom feel like a true home.
12. Modern brick
Modernity meets tradition when brick is used in a clean, organized, and minimalist fashion. Modern brick design often involves using uniform bricks with thin, precise grout lines to create a sleek surface. Instead of the chaotic variation of reclaimed brick, modern styles might feature glazed bricks in solid colors like navy, forest green, or even soft pink. This approach treats brick as a sophisticated tile rather than a raw building material. When paired with frameless glass showers and wall-mounted faucets, modern brick adds a layer of architectural interest that feels fresh, intentional, and perfectly aligned with current high-end interior design trends.
13. Brick veneer
Veneer options provide a practical way to get the look of a solid brick wall without the structural requirements or heavy weight. Brick veneer consists of thin slices of real brick that are applied to the wall like tile. This makes it an excellent choice for bathroom renovations where you want to add an accent wall but cannot support the weight of full bricks. Veneer is easy to install and offers the exact same texture and color as traditional masonry. Once grouted and sealed, it is indistinguishable from a structural wall, allowing you to bring a classic, high-end look to any room.
14. Limewashed brick
Limewash creates a soft, chalky finish that allows the natural texture of the brick to show through while toning down harsh colors. This centuries-old technique is perfect for bathrooms because it is naturally breathable and has antimicrobial properties. A limewashed brick wall offers a romantic, Mediterranean or "shabby chic" vibe that feels both antique and refreshed. The finish is not a solid coat of paint; rather, it is a thin layer that can be distressed to reveal hints of the original red brick underneath. It is an excellent way to brighten a dark room while maintaining a sense of historical depth and organic beauty.
15. Faux brick
If you want the aesthetic of brick on a tight budget or in a rental property, faux brick panels or high-quality wallpapers are viable options. Modern manufacturing has created faux brick surfaces that are remarkably realistic, featuring 3D textures that mimic the feel of mortar and clay. These panels are often waterproof and easy to wipe down, making them surprisingly functional for a bathroom environment. While they may not have the same thermal mass as real brick, they provide the visual warmth and industrial edge that many homeowners crave. It is a quick and effective way to transform a plain bathroom into a stylish space.
16. Thin brick tile
Thin profiles allow for the beauty of brick to be incorporated into spaces where every inch of floor or wall space counts. Thin brick tile is specifically manufactured to be lightweight and easy to handle, making it a favorite for DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors alike. These tiles come in a vast array of colors and finishes, from traditional kiln-fired red to contemporary glazed whites. Because they are so thin, they can be installed over existing surfaces with the right adhesive, saving time and money on demolition. They offer a durable, high-impact design solution that brings a professional, masonry-inspired look to any bathroom.
17. Brick arch
Architectural curves like a brick arch can turn a standard bathroom into a stunning piece of art. Incorporating an archway over a walk-in shower or a recessed bathtub adds a sense of grandeur and old-world craftsmanship. This feature draws the eye upward and creates a framed view of the most luxurious parts of the room. A brick arch provides a sense of enclosure and privacy, making the bathing area feel like a secluded sanctuary. Whether you use natural red brick for a historic feel or painted brick for a modern twist, this structural element adds a level of sophistication that is truly unforgettable.
18. Dark brick
Deep, moody colors are trending in bathroom design as homeowners move away from sterile, all-white spaces. Dark brick, in shades of chocolate brown, charcoal, or deep burgundy, creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for long, relaxing baths. These rich tones provide a beautiful backdrop for white ceramic tubs and bright metallic fixtures, creating a high-contrast look that feels expensive and curated. Dark brick also has the benefit of making a large bathroom feel more grounded and less cavernous. When combined with warm ambient lighting, a dark brick wall glows with a sophisticated and welcoming energy that is hard to beat.
19. Vertical brick tile
Orienting tiles vertically is a clever design trick that can make a bathroom ceiling feel much higher than it actually is. Vertical brick tile takes the traditional horizontal layout and flips it on its side, creating a modern and unexpected aesthetic. This arrangement emphasizes the height of the room and provides a clean, rhythmic look that feels organized and contemporary. It is a great way to use standard brick-shaped tiles in a way that feels fresh and original. Vertical patterns work particularly well in shower stalls or as a feature wall behind a vanity, adding a sense of architectural structure and visual interest.
20. Subway brick tile
Subway style is a classic choice for bathrooms, and using brick-textured tiles in this layout offers a beautiful twist on a familiar favorite. Subway brick tile provides the clean lines of traditional subway tiling but with the added depth and character of a masonry surface. This look is incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into farmhouse, industrial, or even traditional homes. You can choose a glossy finish for a more polished appearance or a matte, tumbled finish for a rustic feel. Using a matching grout color creates a subtle, textured wall, while a contrasting grout highlights the individual tiles and adds a graphic element to the space.
21. Natural brick wall
Keeping the natural color and texture of brick is the best way to honor the material’s raw beauty and organic origins. A natural brick wall brings a variety of warm tones—ranging from soft orange to deep umber—into the bathroom, creating a palette that feels connected to the earth. This look is perfect for those who want to avoid the "perfect" look of manufactured tiles and instead embrace the variations found in clay. Natural brick provides a sense of permanence and strength that makes the bathroom feel like a solid, well-built sanctuary. It is a timeless choice that never goes out of style and only looks better with age.
22. Distressed brick
Distressed finishes give a bathroom an instant sense of history and "cool" factor that is hard to achieve with brand-new materials. Distressed brick features chipped edges, remnants of old paint, and varied mortar stains that suggest the wall has been there for a century. This look is a staple of industrial and bohemian design, offering a relaxed and unpretentious vibe. You can achieve this effect by using reclaimed bricks or by carefully distressing new bricks with various techniques. The result is a wall that feels authentic and full of character, providing a perfect backdrop for modern amenities and vintage-inspired decor pieces alike.
23. Glazed brick tile
Shimmering surfaces on glazed brick tile can add a touch of glamour and luxury to an otherwise rugged material. The glazing process involves applying a glass-like coating to the brick before firing, resulting in a smooth, non-porous surface that is perfect for wet environments like bathrooms. Glazed bricks are available in stunning, jewel-toned colors like emerald green, deep navy, and rich teal. These tiles reflect light beautifully, making a bathroom feel bright and vibrant. They offer the perfect combination of the classic brick shape with the easy-to-clean benefits of traditional ceramic tile, allowing you to create a high-impact feature wall that is both practical and gorgeous.
24. Brick and wood
Combining wood and brick is a classic design strategy that balances the cool, hard surface of masonry with the warm, soft texture of timber. In a bathroom, this might look like a brick accent wall paired with a custom wood vanity or exposed ceiling beams. The natural grain of the wood complements the earthy tones of the brick, creating a space that feels harmonious and grounded. This material pairing is a hallmark of the modern farmhouse and rustic-contemporary styles. By layering these two organic elements, you create a rich, tactile environment that feels incredibly high-end and cozy at the same time.
25. Brick and marble
Luxury is defined by the juxtaposition of contrasting materials, and few combinations are as elegant as brick and marble. The rugged, matte texture of a brick wall provides a stunning contrast to the smooth, polished surface of a marble countertop or floor. This pairing bridges the gap between industrial grit and classic opulence, creating a bathroom that feels both sophisticated and approachable. You might choose a white marble vanity to pop against a dark red brick wall, or a gray marble floor to complement a whitewashed brick surround. The result is a balanced, high-design space that feels curated, timeless, and exceptionally beautiful.
26. Small brick bathroom
Even in small spaces, brick can be used effectively without overwhelming the room. The key to a small brick bathroom is to use the material strategically, perhaps as a single accent wall or as a backsplash behind the sink. Choosing a lighter color, such as white or light gray, can help keep the space feeling open and airy while still providing that sought-after texture. Using smaller bricks or thin brick tiles can also help maintain the correct scale for a compact room. When done correctly, brick adds a layer of interest that makes a small bathroom feel like a thoughtfully designed jewel box rather than a cramped utility space.
27. Master brick bathroom
Master suites deserve a level of design that feels truly special, and brick is the perfect material to create a high-end, custom look. In a master brick bathroom, you have the space to go bold, perhaps with a full feature wall that spans the length of the room or a dramatic brick-lined wet room. This material adds a sense of architectural permanence that elevates the entire suite. Pairing brick with high-end fixtures like a double rainfall showerhead and a large soaking tub creates a spa-like retreat that feels both private and luxurious. It is a design choice that makes a statement about your personal style and appreciation for quality materials.
28. Farmhouse brick
Farmhouse style often relies on a mix of textures and a neutral color palette, making brick an essential component of the look. To achieve a farmhouse brick aesthetic, consider using whitewashed or light-colored bricks that feel bright and clean. This style works beautifully when paired with apron-front sinks, shiplap accents, and vintage-style lighting. The brick adds a sense of history and stability to the home, suggesting a structure that has stood the test of time. Whether used on the floor or as a feature wall, farmhouse brick provides a cozy, welcoming foundation that makes the bathroom feel like the heart of the home.
29. Loft brick
Loft living brings to mind expansive spaces, high ceilings, and plenty of raw, industrial materials. Loft brick design is all about embracing the original structural elements of a building, such as massive red brick walls and large factory-style windows. In a bathroom, this means letting the brick be the dominant feature, often leaving it in its natural, unpainted state. This look is bold and unapologetic, celebrating the urban history of the space. To keep the room feeling comfortable, add soft textiles, warm lighting, and modern fixtures that provide a necessary contrast to the hard, historic surfaces of the original masonry walls.
30. Vintage brick
Vintage vibes are easy to achieve when you incorporate brick that has a sense of age and nostalgia. Vintage brick design often features classic patterns like running bond or basketweave, paired with antique-inspired fixtures like pedestal sinks and clawfoot tubs. This look is perfect for older homes where you want to maintain a sense of period-appropriate charm while updating the functionality of the space. You can use aged bricks with a soft patina to create a bathroom that feels like it has been there for generations. It is a romantic and timeless approach that celebrates the enduring beauty of traditional craftsmanship and classic materials.
Conclusion:
Designing a bathroom with brick is an excellent way to infuse your home with character, texture, and a sense of history. Throughout these thirty ideas, we have seen how this versatile material can adapt to any style, from the rugged industrial loft to the refined modern master suite. Whether you choose the raw beauty of natural red clay or the sleek sophistication of glazed tiles, brick offers a unique architectural element that elevates the entire room. By carefully considering the color, layout, and sealing requirements, you can create a durable and stunning sanctuary that will remain stylish and functional for many years to come.
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