Could red bricks be the right colour for you?

Could red bricks be the right colour for you?

In the realm of architecture and interior design, colour plays a vital role in shaping the appearance and ambiance of a space. Whether a residential building or a commercial structure, the choice of colour can make or break the aesthetics. Among the various materials and hues, red bricks have emerged as a popular and intriguing option. But the question that perplexes many is: Could red bricks be the right colour for you?

Red bricks are synonymous with warmth, strength and character. Often associated with traditional and classical architectural designs, they have long existed in human history. They have proven their versatility and timeless appeal, from the iconic red-brick facades of Victorian homes to the bold and striking contemporary buildings.

The colour psychology of red bricks

Red, as a colour, is known to evoke strong emotions. It’s often linked to passion, energy and warmth. In the context of red bricks, these attributes translate into a welcoming ambiance that exudes comfort and cosiness. The richness of the red hue lends a sense of solidity and grounding, providing a tangible connection to the earth.

This can be particularly attractive to those seeking balance and harmony in their living or working spaces. Red brick offers an excellent way to add texture and depth, creating visual interest without overwhelming the eye.

Compatibility with various styles

One of the striking aspects of red bricks is their compatibility with various architectural styles. They can blend seamlessly with diverse aesthetics, from rustic farmhouses to industrial lofts. In addition, they can be paired with modern materials like glass and steel for a chic and sophisticated look, or combined with wood and stone for a more traditional appearance.

Red bricks work well with various other colours and materials. They can be a stunning backdrop for lush green gardens, accentuate a minimalist white interior or create a balanced contrast with darker shades.

Practical considerations

Beyond aesthetics, red bricks also offer practical advantages. Known for their durability, they can withstand extreme weather conditions, providing an excellent option for exteriors and interiors. Their natural composition means they’re often more environmentally friendly than synthetic materials.

The texture of red bricks also contributes to their functionality. They provide a tactile quality, adding an extra layer of sensory experience to a space. This can make a place feel more homely and connected, enhancing the overall living or working experience.

However, it’s essential to consider the context and personal preferences. While red bricks have universal appeal, they might not suit every setting or individual taste. Their boldness may prove to be overwhelming in smaller spaces or clash with existing colour schemes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right colour and material for your building or interior design is a deeply personal decision, reflecting aesthetic preferences, lifestyle needs and values. Red bricks offer a compelling option for many with their unique blend of warmth, character and versatility.

Their timeless appeal, compatibility with various styles and practical benefits make them very attractive. Yet, the decision to use red bricks must be weighed against the specific context and personal taste.

Ultimately, whether red bricks are the right colour for you depends on a thoughtful consideration of these factors, aligned with your vision and desires. Like any other element in design, they can be a beautiful and meaningful addition when chosen with care and intention.

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Property spotlight: Colourful homes

56 Ambra Vale East, Cliftonwood BS8 4AH

What is it about properties on the coast being gay & bright? This week, we’re looking at colourful homes – all of which, purely by chance, are in coastal/harbour cities and towns; Aberaeron, Brighton and Bristol.

The first property is in Aberaeron, a Ceredigion town we visit regularly. It has a great fish & chip shop, the Harbourmaster is good for a place to stop for a coffee, pint or bite to eat and there are also a couple of ice cream shops… because that’s what you have on a day to the seaside!

The second is in Brighton – the city where we met and lived for a decade or so. The house we’ve chosen is in Hanover – on a street where we used to live – 28 doors down from the first property we bought together. It’s for sale at coming up for half a million pounds; I won’t go into what we bought and sold our little 2-bed house for back in 1998… but it was nowhere near that!

The third property is in arguably one of the most famous, colourful quarters in the country (only beaten by Notting Hill in London) – Bristol’s Cliftonwood.

Awelon, Greenland Terrace, Aberaeron, SA46 0ER

Awelon, Greenland Terrace, Aberaeron, SA46 0ER

Awelon, Greenland Terrace, Aberaeron, SA46 0ER

Awelon, Greenland Terrace, Aberaeron, SA46 0ER

£515,000 – Awelon, Greenland Terrace, Aberaeron, SA46 0ER

An outstanding period townhouse set in an elevated position overlooking Cardigan Bay. The building has been refurbished over the years to provide high quality but comfortable accommodation with well proportioned bedrooms and high ceilings allowing excellent natural light and views over the harbour towards Cardigan Bay.

• Grade II Listed detached property
• Described as an End of Terrace Pavilion
• 2-storey with open plan basement
• 4/5 Bedroom dwelling
• Private walled rear garden
• Commanding period residence in Aberaeron town centre
• A comfortable and well proportioned dwelling within walking distance to town centre, beach and harbour

42 Ewart Street, Brighton BN2 9UQ

42 Ewart Street, Brighton BN2 9UQ

£450,000 – 42 Ewart Street, Brighton BN2 9UQ

A charming terraced house nestled in the heart of Hanover, offering an ideal opportunity for first-time buyers seeking a freehold home or young professional couples looking for their perfect abode.

• 2 bedrooms
• Large, modern bathroom
• Galley-style kitchen
• Mid-terrace

56 Ambra Vale East, Cliftonwood BS8 4AH

56 Ambra Vale East, Cliftonwood BS8 4AH

56 Ambra Vale East, Cliftonwood BS8 4AH

£785,000 – 56 Ambra Vale East, Cliftonwood BS8 4AH

An elegant and inviting period town house situated on the sunny side of a sought after road in the heart of Cliftonwood, equidistant between Clifton Village and Bristol’s harbourside.

• A superb period home in the heart of Cliftonwood
• Offering versatile accommodation, including a sociable kitchen/breakfast room
• Wonderful location between Clifton and the Harbourside
• 4 bedrooms
• 2 good-sized reception rooms
• 2 bathrooms
• South facing level garden

Get their look: Memphis-inspired artist’s home

Memphis-inspired artist's home in Manchester city centre

We often choose an artist’s residence as our weekly featured Get their look home. Today, it’s a Memphis-inspired, new-build, city centre flat; a little bit of Italy in the middle of Manchester.

On his Instagram feed, Michael Pybus titles his home like he would a work of modern art; Home (Living room, kitchen, studio, hallway) 2022 – 61m² / 656ft².

His living space is a seamless meld of high-end, vintage Italian design and classic, mass-produced IKEA with a backdrop of bright, primary colours.

Pybus explains his taste in a recent Apartment Therapy interview:

My style is quite plasticky, hard edged and artificial but I also do really appreciate nature and natural forms which is what drew me to setting up and growing a mini coral reef.

Get their look

Some of the links on our blog are affiliate links. We may receive a small commission - at no cost to you - if you click through and make a purchase.
Prices & links correct at time of publication.

Virgil Abloh x IKEA MARKERAD Receipt rug
Virgil Abloh x IKEA MARKERAD Receipt rug
Lilac retro microwave
Lilac retro microwave
Tahiti table lamp by Ettore Sottsass in 1981 for Memphis Milano
Tahiti table lamp by Ettore Sottsass in 1981 for Memphis Milano
Svarva floor lamp designed in 2009 by Front Designers for IKEA
Svarva floor lamp designed in 2009 by Front Designers for IKEA
Orbital floor lamp by Ferruccio Laviani in 1992 for Foscarini
Orbital floor lamp by Ferruccio Laviani in 1992 for Foscarini
Oceanic lamp by Michele de Lucchi designed in 1981 for Memphis Milano
Oceanic lamp by Michele de Lucchi designed in 1981 for Memphis Milano
Red and Blue chair by Gerrit T. Rietveld designed in 1918 for Cassina
Red and Blue chair by Gerrit T. Rietveld designed in 1918 for Cassina
Virgil Abloh x IKEA MARKERAD Receipt rug
Virgil Abloh x IKEA MARKERAD Receipt rug
Lilac retro microwave
Lilac retro microwave
Tahiti table lamp by Ettore Sottsass in 1981 for Memphis Milano
Tahiti table lamp by Ettore Sottsass in 1981 for Memphis Milano
Svarva floor lamp designed in 2009 by Front Designers for IKEA
Svarva floor lamp designed in 2009 by Front Designers for IKEA
Orbital floor lamp by Ferruccio Laviani in 1992 for Foscarini
Orbital floor lamp by Ferruccio Laviani in 1992 for Foscarini
Oceanic lamp by Michele de Lucchi designed in 1981 for Memphis Milano
Oceanic lamp by Michele de Lucchi designed in 1981 for Memphis Milano
Red and Blue chair by Gerrit T. Rietveld designed in 1918 for Cassina
Red and Blue chair by Gerrit T. Rietveld designed in 1918 for Cassina

Get their look: Retro Jo’s home

 

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Retro Jo (@retrojo5)

Retro Jo is an Etsy jewellery shop owner and Instagrammer (she’s a host of #RetroHauls) and this is her whistle-stop tour of the ground floor of her home.

I love her use of colour blocking; something you’ll also find evident in her jewellery making. I’m also in awe of her sewing skills, her bright pink quilted seat covers are amazing – I just want to run the palms of my hand over those chair backs!

I’ve zeroed in on Jo’s stunning kitchen area in this post – we may revisit other rooms sometime in the future. The kitchen was made by by a company called Plykea (see what they did there?). They create custom doors, drawers and counter-tops for good old basic IKEA METOD carcasses to give you a one-of-a-kind space.

I really need to up my Insta-skills – I’ve still not embraced video and don’t make the most of stories and reels. I may steal Jo’s method of vari-speed, stop-motion film editing… if I can figure out how to do it… and only once our house has had a tidy!

Get their look

Some of the links on our blog are affiliate links. We may receive a small commission - at no cost to you - if you click through and make a purchase.
Prices & links correct at time of publication.

Year planner
Year planner
Cerise pink velvet quilted fabric
Cerise pink velvet quilted fabric
Vintage Finn Ostergaard ‘Albert’ lounge chairs
Vintage Finn Ostergaard ‘Albert’ lounge chairs
Orla Kiely ‘Oval’ oilcloth – grey
Orla Kiely ‘Oval’ oilcloth – grey
Intu instant boiling water tap
Intu instant boiling water tap
Kitchen units
Kitchen units
Year planner
Year planner
Cerise pink velvet quilted fabric
Cerise pink velvet quilted fabric
Vintage Finn Ostergaard ‘Albert’ lounge chairs
Vintage Finn Ostergaard ‘Albert’ lounge chairs
Orla Kiely ‘Oval’ oilcloth – grey
Orla Kiely ‘Oval’ oilcloth – grey
Intu instant boiling water tap
Intu instant boiling water tap
Kitchen units
Kitchen units
Year planner
Year planner
Cerise pink velvet quilted fabric
Cerise pink velvet quilted fabric
Vintage Finn Ostergaard ‘Albert’ lounge chairs
Vintage Finn Ostergaard ‘Albert’ lounge chairs
Orla Kiely ‘Oval’ oilcloth – grey
Orla Kiely ‘Oval’ oilcloth – grey
Intu instant boiling water tap
Intu instant boiling water tap
Kitchen units
Kitchen units