An exposed brick wall can be the defining feature of a space or an awkward, unfinished eyesore. Whether you love the industrial vibe or are looking for a way to soften the harshness, the ideas for covering a brick wall are as diverse as they are stylish. The right approach transforms a rugged focal point into a polished backdrop that enhances the entire room’s character.
Why Cover a Brick Wall?
Before diving into solutions, it is important to understand the motivation behind the change. While exposed brick is trendy, it is not for everyone. The texture can be visually loud, creating a chaotic background that competes with art and furniture. Additionally, bricks can absorb moisture and dust, making them difficult to clean in high-traffic areas. Covering the wall allows you to neutralize the rugged texture, create a smoother surface for hanging pictures, or introduce a completely new color palette that better suits the room’s aesthetic.
Traditional Drywall and Paint
The most common and straightforward method involves installing drywall over the brick and then finishing the surface. This creates a smooth, blank canvas that accepts paint beautifully. For a high-end, minimalist look, painting the drywall a bold color can turn a rustic wall into a sophisticated feature. Alternatively, textured paint techniques, such as skip trowel or knockdown finishes, can add subtle dimension to the surface, mimicking the interest of brick without the maintenance.
Installation Considerations
- Assess the condition of the brick to ensure it is structurally sound.
- Use metal studs and furring strips to create a level surface for the drywall.
- Fill mortar joints with spackle to create an even application.
Textured Wall Coverings
If you want to maintain some tactile interest without the roughness of exposed brick, consider textured wall coverings. Venetian plaster offers a luxurious, stone-like finish that glides over the irregularities of the brick. Similarly, textured silicone molds can be applied to create the look of stone or wood paneling. These materials are applied directly to the wall, effectively hiding the old brick while adding significant visual depth and luxury.
Wood Paneling Cladding
Wood introduces warmth and a classic touch that contrasts beautifully with the coolness of brick. Shiplap or tongue-and-groove panels create a clean, linear pattern that draws the eye upward, making the room feel taller. For a more dramatic effect, wide-plank hardwood in a rich stain can turn the wall into a statement piece. The natural grain of the wood softens the hard edges of the brick, balancing the industrial feel with organic elegance.
Best Practices for Wood
- Leave a small gap between the wood and the floor to allow for expansion.
- Use a moisture barrier behind the wood if installing in basements.
- Consider LED strip lighting behind the wood for a modern glow.
Bold Accents and Feature Walls
Rather than covering the entire wall, you might choose to highlight a specific section to create a focal point. A gallery wall of framed art or photographs can break up the brick and personalize the space. Alternatively, a single large mirror can reflect light and make the room feel larger while providing a clean, uninterrupted surface. For the bold homeowner, a geometric mural or a vibrant peel-and-stick wallpaper can turn a boring brick wall into a vibrant work of art.
Architectural Integration
Sometimes, the best way to "cover" a brick wall is to embrace it as an architectural element. Building a built-in shelving unit that straddles the brick creates storage and integrates the wall into the furniture. Extending the fireplace mantle or constructing a console table directly against the surface ties the design together. This method acknowledges the brick’s presence while giving it a functional purpose within the room’s layout.
Final Considerations
The ideas for covering a brick wall ultimately depend on your desired outcome and the room’s function. A bedroom might benefit from the soft, muted tones of fabric panels, while a kitchen could handle the durability of sleek tiles. Regardless of the path you choose, addressing the brick directly—with paint, paneling, or plaster—ensures the wall enhances your home rather than dominates it.
