25 Limewash Brick Exterior Ideas
You know that feeling when you walk past a house and think, “Wow, this place looks straight out of a magazine”? Nine times out of ten, it’s the exterior finish doing all the heavy lifting. And lately, limewash brick has been stealing the show.
If you’re on the fence about whether limewash brick is for you, let me just say this: it instantly transforms your home from cookie-cutter to character-packed. And no, you don’t need a mansion in Tuscany to pull it off (although, wouldn’t that be nice?).
So grab a coffee—or let’s be honest, maybe a glass of wine—and let’s talk through 25 limewash brick exterior ideas that’ll make your neighbors do a double-take.
1. Classic White Limewash
You can’t go wrong with crisp white limewash. It softens harsh red brick and gives your home that timeless, lived-in look. Bonus: it hides imperfections like a charm. Think farmhouse chic meets European countryside.
2. Subtle Beige Tones
Want something warmer? A soft beige limewash adds coziness without looking too stark. IMO, it’s perfect if you want neutral vibes without going full vanilla.
3. Two-Tone Drama
Why settle for one shade when you can rock two? Try white limewash with darker brick accents peeking through. It adds depth and keeps the exterior from feeling flat.
4. The German Schmear Look
Ever heard of German Schmear? It’s basically limewash’s carefree cousin—applied thicker, letting the brick peek out in places. It’s rustic, it’s messy, and it’s fabulous.
5. Pair It with Black Trim
If you want drama (the good kind), pair limewashed brick with bold black trim. It makes windows pop and creates a modern edge against the soft, chalky brick.
6. Light Gray Wash
Gray limewash tones down the warmth of brick and gives your house a more contemporary feel. Picture stormy skies—but in a chic way.
7. Warm Taupe Elegance
A taupe limewash gives subtle sophistication. It’s softer than gray and warmer than beige, making it a great middle-ground if you’re indecisive. (No judgment—we’ve all been there.)
8. Brick and Wood Combo
Want texture heaven? Pair limewashed brick with natural wood accents—think shutters, beams, or garage doors. The contrast feels grounded and earthy.
9. Front Porch Glow-Up
Your porch sets the stage, so give it the spotlight. Limewashed porch brick walls or columns create a welcoming first impression. Add some hanging ferns and you’re golden.
10. Rustic Cottage Charm
Dreaming of cottagecore? A patchy limewash finish gives your home that “centuries-old English cottage” vibe—even if it’s just a 90s suburban build.
11. Add Contrasting Shutters
Nothing makes limewashed brick pop like dark or colorful shutters. Navy, forest green, even mustard yellow—yes, it works!
12. Coastal Blue Accents
Pair your limewash exterior with coastal blue doors or trim. It instantly screams breezy, seaside living (seagulls optional).
13. Dramatic Entryway
Highlight your front door by limewashing only the brick arch or frame around it. It’s a subtle trick, but it makes your entry feel custom.
14. Mix It with Stone
Who says you have to stick with brick only? A limewash brick-and-stone combo feels layered and luxurious. Perfect if you want that “old estate” feel.
15. Farmhouse Revival
If you love Joanna Gaines vibes, white limewash + black metal roofing is your holy grail. It’s farmhouse chic without feeling too trendy.
16. The Half-Wash
Want the best of both worlds? Try a half-wash technique where limewash covers only parts of the brick. It keeps the natural tones peeking through for extra depth.
17. Moody Dark Limewash
Who says limewash has to be light? Charcoal or deep gray limewash creates a moody, modern vibe. It’s bold but oh-so-worth it.
18. Garden Wall Goals
Don’t just stop at the house—limewash your garden walls or fences for a cohesive, designer look. It ties your entire outdoor space together.
19. Pops of Greenery
Okay, technically not a limewash style, but hear me out: limewashed brick looks jaw-dropping with lush landscaping. Green ivy climbing up soft white walls? Chef’s kiss.
20. Industrial Chic
Pair gray limewashed brick with steel and glass accents for an edgy, industrial look. Think loft-style—but outdoors.
21. Accent Walls Only
Scared to commit? Start small with a limewashed brick accent wall. Great for side walls, garages, or even the chimney.
22. Roof Color Match
Here’s a pro tip: match your limewash shade to your roof color. It creates harmony and makes your exterior look intentional.
23. Weathered Patina
Want character fast? Opt for a weathered limewash finish that looks like it’s been there for decades. Instant history without waiting a century.
24. Contemporary Contrast
Use limewash on brick with sleek modern glass doors and minimalistic landscaping. The softness of limewash balances the sharp lines.
25. Seasonal Styling
Here’s the best part—limewash ages beautifully. As seasons pass, the finish weathers and shifts, creating a naturally evolving look. Honestly, it’s like free exterior updates every year.
Quick Tips for Limewashing Brick
Before you run to the nearest home improvement store, here are a few things I’ve learned (yes, the hard way):
- Test a small patch first. Limewash can look different depending on your brick color.
- It’s removable (at first). Don’t panic if you hate it—you can wash it off before it fully cures.
- Maintenance is low. Unlike paint, limewash fades gracefully. No peeling or flaking drama here.
- DIY is doable. A brush, limewash solution, and a free Saturday—you’re set.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, limewash brick exteriors are about character. Whether you want timeless white, cozy taupe, or a bold charcoal finish, limewash lets your home tell a story. And honestly? It’s one of the easiest ways to boost curb appeal without going broke.
So which style are you leaning toward? The cottage-y patchy look? The sleek modern gray? Or maybe you’re about to go full farmhouse white? Whatever you choose, trust me—your house is about to look chef’s kiss amazing.
