Brick and masonry are timeless materials. In fact, modern homes and buildings are using these materials in new, creative ways; combining tradition, function, aesthetics, and sustainability. If you’re planning a build or renovation, knowing the Top Trends in Brick & Masonry Design for 2026 can help you make choices that are stylish, durable, and future-proof.
In this post, we explore the biggest design trends shaping brick and masonry projects in 2026, backed by data and real-world examples, and show you how to apply them — whether you’re building a new home, and why they are so popular.
Why Brick & Masonry Still Matter in 2026?
Even through materials like glass, steel, and other modern materials, brick remains a top choice among architects and homeowners alike. According to a recent survey by a leading brick manufacturer, around 67% of architects and 49% of homeowners think having brick on a home’s exterior is important in i95business.
Why do people like bricks so much? Brick is strong, durable, weather resistant, low maintenance, and has a timeless look. When used in smart ways, it can also be very flexible for design.
With more focus on sustainable and long-lasting building materials, brick and masonry are making a strong comeback in 2025–2026. Also, as builders respond to environmental concerns and changing lifestyles, brick and masonry design are evolving — merging classic craftsmanship with modern innovation.
Major Trends to Watch in Brick & Masonry Design for 2026
1. Earthy & Natural Colors
In 2026, warm, natural brick tones are in high demand—think the soft red of sun‑baked clay. Soft brown, warm gray, terracotta, muted red, and beige come together to create a cozy, welcoming look—like sunlight warming a clay wall.
These colors draw from nature — they feel warm, grounded, and timeless. They are easy to match with other materials.
In addition, darker and more dramatic hues — charcoal, slate gray, deep clay — are also trending for those who want a more modern, sophisticated look
Why this matters:
Choosing earthy, neutral, or muted bricks makes your design more versatile. Choosing bricks in earthy, neutral tones—like soft clay or warm sand—keeps your design flexible and easy to pair with almost anything.
2. Mixed-Material
Blending brick with wood or metal is catching on fast—it’s one of the biggest design trends right now. Mixing brick with wood, glass, stone, or even a bit of metal can create textures that feel rich and varied like the rough edge of brick against smooth glass home flex corp.
For example a brick wall with a wooden facade or metal accents looks modern but still warm. Mixed materials make the building look unique and stylish.
3. Creative Brick Patterns
Plain brick walls are giving way to bold designs—think zigzags of red and cream catching the light. People love patterns like herringbone, vertical stack, basket weave, and chevron—the way each catches light on a tiled wall feels timeless.
Textured walls or bricks that stick out slightly create a 3D effect. Creative patterns make walls a design feature instead of just a background.
4. Sustainable & Eco-Friendly Masonry
In 2026, sustainable masonry matters—it keeps walls sturdy and the air clear of dust and waste. Builders rely on reclaimed or recycled bricks, mix them with low‑carbon mortar, and choose materials gathered nearby—sometimes from a dusty yard just down the road.
Eco-friendly bricks help the environment, reduce waste, and add character to buildings. They are durable and long-lasting, making them a smart choice for any project.
5. Large Format Pavers
Large format brick or stone pavers are all the rage for patios, driveways and walkways right now – & they’re looking super clean & modern. Plus they do a great job of making small spaces feel like they’re a lot bigger – check out what BlackBear Masonry have done with theirs.
Using big tiles is a real bonus too – they cut down on seams which makes them a breeze to clean & keep in good nick. They’re a perfect fit for outdoor living areas & modern landscapes.
6. Indoors – Outdoors – It’s All One Look
Using the same brick design both in & out creates a really seamless look – it’s a game changer. Take the example of matching an outdoor patio wall to a brick fireplace inside – Toro Stone have done some amazing work with this one.
It’s a trend that really makes your home feel connected to the great outdoors, and it creates a whole lot of harmony in the design department too.
7. Thin Brick Veneers
Thin brick veneers are lightweight and easy to install. They look like real brick but are more affordable and faster to work with.They are great for interior walls, facades, or accent features where full brick is not needed.
8. Smart Masonry & Modern Technology Integration
Modern bricks hold heat better, keeping rooms warm on chilly mornings. Prefabricated panels, insulated blocks, and advanced mortar blends help buildings stay cozy in winter and keep cooling bills down when the air hums with heat.
Smart masonry solutions are easier to install, sustainable, and combine the best of tradition with modern technology.
How Homeowners Can Use These Trends
If you’re planning a build or renovation now or in 2026, here’s how you can make the most of these masonry trends:
- Choose earthy or neutral brick colors — they age well, match many design styles, and give timeless appeal.
- Don’t be afraid to mix materials — pair brick with wood, metal, glass, or stone for a rich, layered look.
- Use creative brick patterns — herringbone, vertical stacks, textured bricks — make walls stand out as design features.
- Favor sustainable or reclaimed materials — good for the planet, and adds character.
- Consider thin veneers or manufactured brick/stone if the budget is limited — you get the look without heavy structure or cost.
- Integrate indoor and outdoor spaces — use masonry to blur boundaries between inside and outside.
- For outdoor areas, use large-format pavers or smooth stone/brick floors — for clean, modern patios and walkways.
- Use modern, efficient materials or insulated masonry — for better comfort, lower energy costs, and future-proof homes.
By following these ideas, you can create a home that feels modern yet timeless — a space built to last and look good over decades.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is brick still a good choice for modern homes in 2026?
A: Yes. Brick is durable, low-maintenance, and looks timeless.
Q: What’s the difference between full brick walls and thin brick veneer?
A: Full brick walls are solid and heavy. Thin brick veneer looks like real brick but is lighter, easier, and cheaper to install.
Q: What is thin brick veneer?
It is a lightweight brick layer that looks real but is easier and cheaper to install.
Q: Can brick walls be patterned?
Yes, patterns like herringbone, chevron, or vertical stack are trendy.
Q: Are recycled bricks safe and durable?
Yes, recycled and reclaimed bricks are strong, durable, and eco-friendly.
Conclusion
Brick and masonry design isn’t outdated, far from it. In 2026, we’re seeing a revival: a thoughtful, creative, and forward-looking use of masonry. Whether through earthy color palettes, mixed-material facades, creative brick patterns, sustainable materials, or smart masonry technologies, brick is reinventing itself to meet modern tastes and needs.
If you’re building or renovating, now is a great time to consider masonry — it’s durable, timeless, eco-friendly, adaptable, and full of design potential. Use the trends above to guide your decisions ,and build a home or space that stands the test of time.
Want concrete inspiration? Check out the gallery at solidcoreconstruction.examples of modern masonry homes or patios using these trends — they’ll help you see how these ideas translate into real, livable spaces.
