Mortar to Love: Brick Styles Worth Building On!
Your home’s exterior is the first opportunity to make a lasting impression! From shutter color and window details to landscaping and lighting, it’s the layering of thoughtful choices that gives a home its character. One of the most impactful of those exterior decisions?! Brick!
With the right style, color, and application, brick alone can completely transform the feel of a home! Whether it’s traditional, modern, or even transitional, at Magnolia Homes, we believe brick is more than a building material: it’s a design statement! Here are a few of our favorite brick styles and finishes that we hope will leave you inspired and in love!
Slurried Brick


Also known as a German Smear, a slurry finish is a beautiful way to soften the look of traditional brick while adding depth and texture! This technique involves applying a thin layer of mortar over the brick and partially wiping it away, allowing hints of the original brick color to peek through.
What we love most about a slurry finish is its old-world charm! It feels timeless and effortlessly elegant. No two homes ever look exactly alike, which gives each exterior a custom, lived-in feel that only gets better with age. It’s the perfect choice if you’re drawn to European-inspired architecture or want to add a little warmth and character!
Painted Brick


If you’re looking for a clean, elevated, and more modern aesthetic, painted brick is a stunning option! Painting brick instantly brightens an elevation and allows for a higher-contrast look. From crisp whites to warmer creams and soft neutrals, the color possibilities are endless! For an added wow factor, consider sealing the painted brick with a subtle gloss finish. This creates a smoother surface with a higher reflection!
Red Brick


While lighter exteriors have dominated recent trends, we’re seeing a renewed appreciation for traditional red brick! Red brick is warm and rich with character! When paired with soft trim colors, natural wood accents, or a mix of metals, red brick feels anything but dated. Instead, it looks confident and enduring! This classic selection is one you can’t go wrong with!
Thick Mortar Joints


The mortar you choose is just as important as the brick itself, and so is its application! A thicker mortar joint can dramatically change the overall appearance of your exterior, such as making it look lighter or more luxurious, without the process of doing a full slurry. Using this application with red brick, is just another way you can add character to an already unique brick!
Brick is back, baby!! While there are so many goodies to choose from, we are certain there is a brick style that perfectly fits your vision! Let us help you find the right option for you today by scheduling a tour with one of our New Home Specialists!