31 Brick Backsplash in Kitchen Ideas for Your Cooking Area

Brick backsplashes bring character and timeless appeal to kitchens, offering durability and visual interest that few materials can match.

Brick textures create richness against smooth countertops and appliances, adding warmth to contemporary spaces to traditional ones. The natural variations in each brick ensure your kitchen remains uniquely yours.

Today’s brick backsplashes offer creative possibilities beyond basic installation, with patterns, combinations, and techniques that change this humble material into a stunning focal point for the heart of your home.

This article showcases distinctive brick backsplash ideas, each with practical tips to help you create an amazing kitchen.

Brick Backsplash in Kitchen Ideas

Here’s a list of unique and stylish brick backsplash ideas for your kitchen that will add character and texture to your space.

1. Classic White Brick Backsplash

A white brick backsplash is a timeless, clean option for both modern and traditional kitchens. Its bright, reflective nature helps open up the space.

When paired with dark cabinetry or countertops, it adds sleekness and contrast, perfect for creating a fresh, airy feel in any kitchen design.

Cost: $2-$15 per sq ft for basic white brick tiles; premium options or custom designs may range from $8-$80 per sq ft
Tip: Apply a quality sealer to white brick to prevent staining from cooking splashes and make cleaning easier.

2. Exposed Red Brick Backsplash

Exposing the natural red brick in your kitchen brings an industrial, rustic charm. It contrasts well with stainless steel appliances and sleek modern cabinetry.

This style is ideal for creating a cozy, urban kitchen that feels rich. The raw, unfinished look makes a bold design statement.

Cost: $5-$30 per sq ft for exposed red brick; specialized finishing or reclaimed bricks may increase the price to $9-$40 per sq ft.
Tip: Consider applying a matte-finish clear coat to protect the porous brick surface without changing its natural appearance.

3. Herringbone Brick Pattern

The herringbone pattern offers a timeless, visually stimulating layout for your brick backsplash. It adds movement and texture, giving your kitchen a stylish, elevated look.

Ideal for a more traditional or modern look, this design emphasizes boldness. It creates a classy atmosphere that draws the eye in without overwhelming the space.

Cost: $7-$12 per sq ft for herringbone-patterned brick; custom layouts may cost $12-$24 per sq ft, depending on the complexity of the installation.
Tip: Use a cardboard template to plan your herringbone layout before installation to minimize cuts and waste.

4. Beveled Brick Tiles

Beveled brick tiles offer a sleek, polished appearance that catches light beautifully. Perfect for a more refined, luxurious feel in both modern and traditional kitchens.

These tiles add dimension and depth to the backsplash while maintaining the timeless appeal of brick. It’s a stylish way to incorporate texture without overwhelming the space.

Cost: $8-$15 per sq ft for beveled bricks; custom finishes or high-end brands can push the price to $20-$250 per sq ft.
Tip: Install under-cabinet lighting to maximize the light-catching properties of beveled edges.

5. Antique Whitewashed Brick

Whitewashed brick combines rustic and vintage elements, creating a softer, aged look. This style adds warmth to any kitchen, especially in farmhouse or coastal designs.

The soft hues provide an understated class and blend with other natural materials like wood or stone. It creates a welcoming, homey feel in any kitchen.

Cost: $6-$12 per sq ft for whitewashed brick; antique or reclaimed bricks may be priced higher, around $10-$15 per sq ft.
Tip: Create a custom whitewash by diluting white paint with water (3:1 ratio) for a more controlled application than pre-made options.

6. Gray Brick Backsplash

Gray brick offers a modern, sleek twist on classic brick. It complements both light and dark cabinetry and pairs beautifully with stainless steel appliances.

Perfect for creating a sleek, urban look, a gray brick backsplash adds an understated look to your kitchen. The neutral tones work well with various styles and finishes.

Cost: $5-$10 per sq ft for standard gray bricks; premium versions or custom designs may cost up to $20-$50 per sq ft.
Tip: Test multiple gray tones in your actual kitchen lighting before committing, as grays can appear dramatically different under various light conditions.

7. Two-Tone Painted Brick

Painting brick in two complementary or contrasting tones creates a custom look. This could involve painting the bricks one color and the mortar another or creating patterns with two brick colors.

The two-tone approach adds dimension and can tie together other colors in your kitchen. It offers endless customization possibilities.

Cost: $8-$14 per sq ft for professional two-tone painted brick; complex patterns may cost $14-$30 per sq ft.
Tip: Use painter’s tape on mortar lines for clean edges when creating two-tone effects, and always apply a primer first.

8. Brushed Silver Brick Backsplash

Brushed silver brick tiles create a shiny, metallic surface while maintaining the texture of natural brick. They bring a contemporary, high-end finish to your kitchen.

This backsplash style works well in industrial, modern kitchens. It pairs well with minimalist designs and high-end appliances, offering a sleek, futuristic vibe.

Cost: $10-$18 per sq ft for brushed silver bricks; premium finishes or custom designs may increase the price to $18-$25 per sq ft.

Tip: Clean with non-abrasive products specifically designed for metallic surfaces to maintain the finish.

9. Charcoal Brick Backsplash

Charcoal bricks add a moody, dramatic feel to your kitchen. This dark, sophisticated color contrasts beautifully with lighter cabinetry or marble countertops.

Perfect for a minimalist or modern look, the charcoal color brings depth and dimension. It provides a bold focal point, enhancing the design without being overwhelming.

Cost: $6-$30 per sq ft for charcoal bricks; premium options or specialized finishes may cost up to $35-$150 per sq ft.
Tip: Balance dark brick with ample lighting to prevent the kitchen from feeling closed in or shadowy.

10. Brick with White Grout

Combining red or brown brick with white grout creates a crisp, fresh aesthetic. The white grout highlights each brick, adding definition and contrast.

This design works especially well in modern kitchens with sleek, clean lines. The bright grout creates a vibrant, airy atmosphere, perfect for a contemporary space.

Cost: $3-$10 per sq ft for brick with white grout; customized designs may push the price to $7-$30 per sq ft.
Tip: Apply a grout sealer specifically formulated for white grout to prevent discoloration in high-splash areas.

11. Farmhouse Rustic Brick Backsplash

A rustic farmhouse brick backsplash adds charm and character to your kitchen. The warmth of natural bricks pairs beautifully with wooden elements and vintage accents.

This design creates an inviting, cozy space that feels both timeless and comfortable. It’s ideal for country-style kitchens with a focus on natural materials.

Cost: $5-$8 per sq ft for rustic brick; reclaimed or antique bricks may cost $13-$150 per sq ft.
Tip: Mix brick sizes or incorporate a few antique or salvaged bricks for an authentic, time-worn farmhouse look.

12. Angled/Staggered Brick Installation

Installing bricks at 45-degree angles creates dynamic visual movement across your backsplash. This technique transforms conventional brick layouts into something fresh and unexpected.

The diagonal lines can make small kitchens appear larger and add architectural interest to plain walls. This method works with any brick color or style for a custom appearance.

Cost: $8-$20 per sq ft for angled brick installation; complex patterns or custom cuts may increase costs to $25-$35 per sq ft.
Tip: Use a laser level to maintain consistent 45-degree angles throughout the installation.

13. Aged Copper Metallic Finish Brick

Bricks with an aged copper metallic finish create a striking, luxurious backsplash with rich visual depth. The patina effect gives off warm reddish-brown tones with hints of green, mimicking naturally aged copper.

This option adds warmth and sophistication to your kitchen. It pairs exceptionally well with wooden elements and neutral-toned cabinetry.

Cost: $3-$26 per sq ft for copper-finished brick tiles; artisanal hand-finished options may range from $12-$40 per sq ft.
Tip: If you want the copper to maintain its current patina, apply a clear protective coating designed for metals.

14. Vertical Brick Backsplash

A vertical brick layout adds height and drama to your kitchen. This design is ideal for smaller kitchens, giving the illusion of a larger space while offering bold aesthetics.

The vertical design creates a modern, edgy vibe, making it perfect for urban or contemporary kitchens. It can become a striking focal point in the room.

Cost: $11-$20 per sq ft for vertical brick layouts; custom designs or intricate patterns may raise the price to $40-$180 per sq ft.
Tip: Start installation at the center of the wall and work outward to keep cut pieces symmetrical on both ends.

15. Brick with Metal Accents

Mixing brick with metal accents creates a sleek, industrial look in your kitchen. This combination brings warmth from the brick while incorporating a modern, urban vibe.

The metal elements complement the rough texture of the brick, creating a balance between organic and industrial aesthetics. Perfect for lofts or modern homes.

Cost: $8-$23 per sq ft for brick with metal accents; custom designs or premium metals may push the cost to $35-$180 per sq ft.
Tip: Choose metal accents with similar undertones (warm or cool) as your kitchen fixtures for a cohesive look.

16. Painted Pastel Brick Backsplash

Soft pastel colors on brick backsplashes create a gentle, soothing kitchen atmosphere. These light hues add character while maintaining a subtle appearance.

Perfect for cottagecore or vintage-inspired kitchens seeking a touch of color without overwhelming the space. Colors like mint green, baby blue, or pale pink bring fresh energy to traditional brick.

Cost: $12-$20 per sq ft for basic painted brick; custom colors or specialized finishes may range from $10-$45 per sq ft.
Tip: Apply a light coat of paint and then partially wipe it off while still wet for a more natural, textured appearance.

17. Mismatched Multicolor Brick

A mix of different colored bricks creates a playful, eclectic backsplash full of personality. This approach works exceptionally well in bohemian or artistic kitchen spaces.

Each brick contributes to a mosaic-like effect, making your kitchen truly unique. The varied colors add visual interest and can tie together multiple design elements in your kitchen.

Cost: $7-$12 per sq ft for multicolored brick; custom color arrangements may cost $12-$20 per sq ft.
Tip: Lay out your color pattern on the floor first to ensure a balanced distribution of colors before mounting it to the wall.

18. Layered Brick with Cutout Display Niches

This functional design incorporates small display niches within the brick backsplash to showcase special items like small plants, spice jars, or decorative objects.

These cutout spaces add personality and practicality while maintaining the overall brick aesthetic. Each niche can be customized in size and position for a truly unique look.

Cost: $20-$55 per sq ft, the premium ones can go for $50-100, depending on the complexity of the cutouts and any integrated features.
Tip: Install small LED lights inside niches to highlight displayed items and add depth to the wall.

19. Half-Wall Brick Backsplash

A brick backsplash that covers only half the wall height creates a balanced look that doesn’t dominate the kitchen. This approach pairs well with painted walls or other materials above.

The partial coverage adds texture and interest while maintaining visual lightness. It’s an excellent compromise for those who want brick without committing to full wall coverage.

Cost: $4-$10 per sq ft for a half-wall application; specialized patterns may increase costs to $14-$70 per sq ft.
Tip: Finish the top edge with a simple trim piece or cap to create a clean transition to the wall above.

20. Glazed Ceramic Brick Tiles

Glazed ceramic tiles shaped like bricks offer the structure of brick with added color options and sheen. These tiles are typically more water-resistant than traditional brick, making them practical for busy kitchens.

The glossy finish reflects light, brightening your kitchen while providing the classic brick pattern. Available in countless colors to match any kitchen palette.

Cost: $30-$40 per sq ft for glazed ceramic brick tiles; custom colors or artisanal options may cost $35-$150 per sq ft.
Tips: Order 10-15% more tiles than needed to account for cuts, breaks, and to have matching tiles for future repairs.

21. Broken Mosaic Brick Pattern

Using broken or cut brick pieces arranged in a mosaic pattern creates an artistic, one-of-a-kind backsplash. This approach gives your kitchen a handcrafted, artisanal quality.

The irregular shapes and patterns add visual interest and texture, making the backsplash a focal point. This style works particularly well in creative, unconventional kitchen designs.

Cost: $5-$20 per sq ft for mosaic brick patterns; custom artistic layouts may cost $15-$60 per sq ft.
Tip: Soak cut brick pieces in water before arranging them to prevent them from absorbing moisture from the mortar too quickly.

22. Corner Brick Accent

Using brick only in corner sections or as an accent behind the stove creates a focal point without overwhelming the kitchen. This targeted approach highlights key areas while maintaining simplicity elsewhere.

It’s perfect for those who want to include brick texture without committing to a full backsplash. This method also helps control costs while adding visual interest.

Cost: $3-$7 per sq ft for small accent areas; specialty brick or custom patterns may cost $7-$12 per sq ft.
Tip: Use the same grout color for both your brick accent and other backsplash materials for a more integrated look.

23. Brick with Concrete Overlay

A thin concrete overlay on brick creates a unique industrial look that combines two trending materials. This technique softens the brick’s texture while maintaining its structure.

The concrete adds a modern, minimalist element to the traditional brick pattern. This combination works particularly well in contemporary or industrial kitchen designs.

Cost: $10-$16 per sq ft for brick with concrete overlay; specialized finishes may cost $16-$22 per sq ft.
Tip: Apply the concrete in thin layers and use a damp sponge to expose portions of the brick for a worn, industrial effect.

24. Single-Row Brick Border

A single row of bricks used as a border or chair rail adds subtle texture without dominating the kitchen. This minimal approach works well with other backsplash materials like tile or painted walls.

It’s an affordable way to incorporate brick into your kitchen design. The brick border can highlight architectural features or create visual separation in the space.

Cost: $2-$5 per sq ft for brick border installation; specialty bricks may increase costs to $5-$8 per linear foot.
Tip: Install the brick border first, then add the complementary backsplash material to ensure proper alignment.

25. Backlit Brick Backsplash

This dramatic option uses LED strip lighting behind translucent or hollow glass bricks to create a stunning glowing effect.

The backsplash becomes an eye-catching feature both day and night, with options for steady lighting or programmable color changes to match your mood or occasion. This approach makes a bold statement in modern or minimalist kitchens.

Cost: $25-$60 per sq ft, depending on the lighting system and brick materials used.
Tip: Install the lighting on a dimmer switch to adjust the intensity based on time of day or mood.

26. Natural Stone and Brick Combination

Mixing natural stone elements with brick creates a rich, textured backsplash with visual variety. This combination brings together the warmth of brick with the luxury of stone.

The contrasting textures add depth and interest to your kitchen. This approach works well in rustic, Mediterranean, or high-end traditional kitchens.

Cost: $12-$18 per sq ft for stone and brick combinations; premium stones or custom patterns may cost $18-$30 per sq ft.
Tip: Use the same mortar color for both materials to create visual continuity in the backsplash.

27. Geometric Patterned Brick Layout

Arranging bricks in geometric patterns such as diamonds, basketweave, or zigzags creates visual interest beyond standard layouts. These patterns add movement and sophistication to your kitchen.

The structured approach showcases the versatility of brick as a design element. This style works well in both modern and traditional kitchens, seeking something beyond ordinary.

Cost: $9-$14 per sq ft for geometric brick patterns; intricate custom designs may cost $14-$20 per sq ft.
Tip: Create a full-size paper template of your pattern and tape it to the wall to visualize the effect before installation.

28. Brick with Contrasting Cabinet Colors

Pairing brick backsplashes with bold cabinet colors creates striking visual contrasts that highlight both elements. Think navy blue cabinets against red brick or green cabinets with white brick.

This strategy makes both the backsplash and cabinetry stand out. The complementary colors create a balanced, visually appealing kitchen with character.

Cost: $5-$10 per sq ft for basic brick installation; factor in $75-$150 per cabinet for quality painting.
Tip: Paint a small section of your cabinets and place a brick sample nearby to test the contrast effect before committing.

29. Laser-Etched Brick Backsplash

Modern laser-etching technology can create patterns, images, or text on brick surfaces, offering a truly customized backsplash. This technique allows for personalization while maintaining the classic brick texture.

From simple geometric patterns to family names or custom designs, laser-etched brick brings uniqueness to your kitchen.

Cost: $15-$35 per sq ft for basic laser-etched brick; complex custom designs may cost $25-$40 per sq ft.
Tip: Keep etched designs more detailed near eye level and simpler in peripheral areas for maximum impact.

30. Mini Brick Tile Backsplash

Miniature brick tiles (about half the size of standard bricks) create a more detailed, refined look while maintaining the brick aesthetic.

These smaller tiles work well in compact kitchens or spaces where standard bricks might feel too bulky. The smaller scale offers more design flexibility and often easier installation.

Cost: $6-$11 per sq ft for mini brick tiles; specialty finishes may increase costs to $11-$16 per sq ft.
Tip: Use a smaller grout line (1/8 inch) with mini bricks to maintain proportion and create a more refined look.

31. Colored Mortar with Brick

Using colored mortar between brick tiles creates an unexpected twist on traditional brick backsplashes. Black, gray, or even colored mortar can dramatically change the look of the same brick.

This approach adds depth and can either highlight or downplay the grid pattern. It’s an affordable way to customize your brick backsplash.

Cost: $5-$9 per sq ft for brick with colored mortar; specialty mortar colors may add $9-$50 per sq ft.
Tip: Mix a small batch of colored mortar first to test the dried color before committing to the entire project.

Conclusion

From classic red brick to innovative backlit options, your kitchen will gain dimension, texture, and personality that stand apart from common tile choices.

Consider your kitchen’s lighting, cabinetry, and overall style when selecting brick colors and patterns. Small samples viewed in your actual space make all the difference in decision-making.

Proper sealing and maintenance will keep your brick backsplash looking fresh for years. Most options require minimal care, just occasional cleaning with appropriate products for the specific finish.

The investment in a brick backsplash offers lasting value, as this timeless material continues to appeal to homebuyers and remains a sought-after feature in kitchen design trends.