(BPT) - Spring is the time many homeowners start planning upgrades and new construction projects — and choosing the right design elements and building materials are key to this process. Brick, which was once considered limited in its use and color options, is now playing a major role in giving homes an unforgettable look — inside and out.
Today's brick offers far more design potential than ever before, seamlessly blending timeless appeal with modern style. General Shale, for example, is redefining what brick can be, offering a wide array of colors, textures and styles that range from classic to cutting-edge.
"Brick is one of the few materials that can feel both timeless and unexpected," said Charity Honeycutt, owner of Honeybee Styling & Design in Knoxville, Tenn. "The nuance lives in the color — from soft creams, moody charcoals and sun-washed reds — each one telling a different story. When designers lean into that range, brick becomes less about structure and more about atmosphere."
If you're not sure how to get started using brick, check out General Shale's 2026 Lookbook. This curated lineup of trend-forward, authentic brick for interiors and exteriors offers DIYers and design professionals inspiration to create modern spaces with a time-tested material.
Kitchens and bathrooms
When creating a modern kitchen or spa-like bathroom, homeowners often opt for cool, calming tones. Because of the natural, earthy, red tones, it's easy to dismiss brick as an option. However, thin bricks glazed in rich blues can impart a calming tone and luxurious feeling to these spaces.
For example, Aquavue glazed brick brings depth and dimension to interiors with its rich and calming aquatic blue tone that evokes the vibrancy of water. The handcrafted glazed finish reflects light with a subtle sheen, transforming an ordinary surface into striking backsplashes and countertops.
Office and creative spaces
Bright white colors are perfect for spaces that embrace light and openness. To achieve a polished, contemporary look in offices, gathering areas and creative spaces, choose a white glazed thin brick like Driftvue.
Like Aquavue, Driftvue offers a subtle reflective sheen that showcases how white brick tile delivers timeless and effortless style to interior spaces. Its streamlined profile and versatile finish blend seamlessly into a modern design wherever you plan to spend long periods of time in deep thought and creation.
Another striking option is Driftvue's color cousin, Limestone Elevation. The refined thin brick with its soft white hue and subtly textured surface is perfect for minimalist offices and gallery-style walls.
Living rooms and entryways
It may be unglazed, but traditionally cut brick for interior design stands out in living rooms and entryways, adding warmth and ruggedness to these spaces. You can use earth-toned bricks like Saddletown and Ghosttown to create organic artisanal textures on full accent walls or when designing half walls around an entire room.
To showcase brick's traditional aesthetic and strength, use full-size bricks in warm tones with subtle texture variations like Peppermill. When used to create an arched entryway, frame a fireplace or highlight a cozy reading nook, it reflects the power of classic brickwork and adds character and coziness to interiors.
Exteriors
Brick as an exterior design feature is the classic use of this durable material, but that doesn't mean it's limited to traditional home design. A brick like Midnight Mist delivers bold sophistication and style with its rich, deep charcoal hue, offering homeowners, builders and designers maximum curb appeal impact.
Also, Midnight Mist's dark charcoal color is incredibly versatile style-wise, pairing well with modern and traditional designs by highlighting architectural lines and complementing a wide range of finishes. And, as a full-size brick, homeowners can count on its strength and durability, making it a powerful choice for projects that command durability, elegance and lasting performance.
For homeowners and designers seeking the timeless charm of classic brickwork with warm tones and subtle textural variation, Hometown brick is an excellent choice. Rooted in tradition and made for modern living, Hometown's inviting palette evokes comfort and belonging, making it a natural choice for exterior facades that speak to heritage and durability.
Pro tip: When used to create accent walls, fireplaces and entryways, Midnight Mist adds a dramatic flair to interior design features, creating a truly striking focal point in any room. Similarly, Hometown is ideal for creating cozy interiors with warmth and character.
Building a strong design foundation, one brick at a time
For those who want to elevate interior and exterior spaces with a sustainable, functional and tactile material, brick is the way to go. To find more brick options and see design inspirations for your indoor home projects, visit GeneralShale.com.
