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3 Ways to Modernize a Traditional Brick Home

by Anna Dunstan

Posted on June 15, 2026 11:10 AM

Traditional brick homes never go out of style, but many homeowners are looking for ways to give their exterior a more updated and modern feel while still keeping the warmth and character that make brick so timeless.

The good news is that modernizing a brick home does not always require a complete renovation. Often, a few thoughtful updates can completely transform the look of the home while still respecting its original architecture.

1. Update the Color Palette

One of the easiest ways to modernize a traditional brick home is by refreshing the exterior color palette.

Modern homes often feature cleaner, more natural tones that allow the brick to stand out without feeling overly busy. Updating trim, shutters, doors, and accents can instantly make a home feel more current.

Popular modern combinations include:
 • white trim with warm brick
 • black windows and accents
 • natural wood tones
 • soft neutral paint colors
 • matte finishes

The goal is not to overpower the brick but to complement it with a simpler and more balanced palette.

2. Add Modern Lighting and Landscaping

Lighting and landscaping have a huge impact on curb appeal.

Replacing outdated fixtures with simple, modern lighting can instantly refresh the front of a home. Clean lines and warm lighting help create a more updated look while still keeping the home welcoming.

Landscaping also plays a major role. Modern landscaping often focuses on:
 • structured greenery
 • layered planting
 • natural textures
 • simple pathways
 • outdoor lighting

Pairing brick with modern landscaping creates a beautiful contrast between timeless architecture and fresh design.

3. Mix Brick with Contemporary Materials

One of the biggest trends in exterior design is mixing traditional brick with more modern materials.

Combining brick with:
 • black metal accents
 • natural wood
 • large windows
 • modern garage doors
 • stone features

can completely transform the appearance of a home.

This mix of materials helps create balance by blending traditional warmth with clean, modern details.

Many homeowners are also choosing lighter brick tones or tumbled brick styles to create a softer and more organic appearance that fits today’s design trends.

Keeping the Character While Updating the Style

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make when updating older homes is removing too much character.

Brick already provides timeless texture, warmth, and architectural appeal. The key to modernization is enhancing those qualities rather than covering them up completely.

Simple updates that respect the original charm of the home often create the best results.

Modern Yet Timeless

The best exterior designs balance current trends with long term style.

Brick homes already have a strong foundation for creating that balance. With updated colors, thoughtful landscaping, and modern accents, traditional brick homes can feel fresh, elevated, and timeless for years to come.