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Decoration

7 modern ideas to use exposed brick in decoration

When used with criteria, the apparent brick transforms the projects, connects with the architecture and contributes to more expressive interiors

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Dec 16, 2025, 3:00 PM

05 min de leitura
Vivian Reimers - Refúgio Urbano. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2025.

Vivian Reimers - Refúgio Urbano. Projeto da CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2025. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

The exposed brick occupies a relevant place in contemporary decoration for revealing the constructive material and establishing a direct relationship between architecture and interior. By exposing the material in its original state, the surface stops being just a neutral plane and starts to act as a expressive element, capable of influencing the reading of the space immediately.

Leo Romano - Casa de Bá. Project of CASACOR Goiás 2025.

(Edgard Cesar/CASACOR)

Over time, the exposed brick has ceased to be restricted to industrial or rustic projects and has begun to integrate residential projects of different styles. Its presence is associated with a valuation of materiality, permanence, and solutions that prioritize identity, without depending on excessive ornaments or finishes.

Effects of exposed brick in decoration


In decoration, exposed brick acts as a resource that adds texture and visual depth to the projects. The natural irregularity of the material creates dynamic surfaces that respond to the incidence of light and the observer's point of view, making the space less static and more interesting from a sensory point of view.

Carol Barreto - Wine, Bahia, and Art. Project of CASACOR Bahia 2025.

Carol Barreto - Wine, Bahia, and Art. Project of CASACOR Bahia 2025. (Camila Santos/CASACOR) (CASACOR)

Besides the visual impact, the exposed brick influences the atmosphere of the space. It communicates solidity, authenticity, and even informality, qualities that contribute to more welcoming and less impersonal spaces. Even applied in specific areas, the material establishes a focal point that organizes the composition and imparts character to the interior.

Different applications of exposed brick


Exposed brick can be incorporated in various ways in decoration, depending on the scale of the space, the language of the project, and the aesthetic intention. Its application does not need to be extensive to produce effect—often, a well-positioned surface is enough to transform the reading of the space!

Highlight walls

One of the most common applications of exposed brick is in highlight walls, where the material acts as a central element of the composition. In living rooms, kitchens, or circulation areas, it creates an expressive backdrop that dispenses with other decorative resources.

Carol Barreto - Wine, Bahia, and Art. Project of CASACOR Bahia 2025.

(Camila Santos/CASACOR)

Integration with other materials

Exposed brick works well with wood, concrete, glass, and smooth surfaces. This combination allows balancing rusticity and contemporaneity, creating visually rich (but coherent!) spaces, where materiality plays a leading role.

Andrade Schimmelpfeng Architecture - Casa Sabin. Project of CASACOR Bahia 2025.

(MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

Use in specific areas of the house

In kitchens, balconies, and social areas, exposed brick helps to define uses and reinforce the identity of the space. In bedrooms and offices, its presence tends to be more pointed, contributing to a warm atmosphere without overwhelming the space.

Vivian Reimers - Urban Refuge. Project of CASACOR Rio de Janeiro 2025.

(André Nazarethc/CASACOR)

Color, finish, and conservation


The natural colors of exposed brick vary according to its origin and manufacturing process, ranging from reddish and earthy tones to lighter or grayish shades. These variations enrich the surface and allow for different color combinations, both in neutral projects and in more contrasting proposals.

Marlon Gama Architecture - Liquid Roots – Deca Space. Project of CASACOR Bahia 2025.

(Denilson Machado/CASACOR)

Meanwhile, the finish and conservation are fundamental aspects for the durability of the material. The application of sealers protects the brick against moisture, dust, and wear, in addition to facilitating maintenance. The grout, when well executed, contributes to the aesthetic reading of the whole and to the preservation of the surface over time.

CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the CASACOR Technology team based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.