Colors That Go With Red Brick Walls

White

• White matches all colors. It has no hue, technically. Thus, it is a blank, brilliant palette for other colors, warm red brick in this case. White walls reflect maximum light, which is useful fur urban rooms with a dearth of windows or areas where shade trees obscure light. It also helps simplify furniture choices. The white won't interfere with any decor decisions. It's a conservative choice. Sometimes that is just right. For other tastes, there are livelier options.

Gray

• While gray is technically free of hue information, like white, it has a contemporary character. In addition, gray can be lightly infused with hue, cool or warm to shade it towards other design elements. For brick, a warmish gray, one tinged with red, is more of a natural option. The subtle red picks up brick hues. A down-the-middle gray, more standoffish, serves up a chic and reserved cast. Again, gray won't impact furniture colors. Dial up or down the value (brightness, that is) of the gray depending on the light available and atmosphere preferences.

Deep Earth Tones

• Earth tones, simple and warm, present a homey alternative. Sienna, deep ocher, milk chocolate and olive range from red to green, all providing comfortable companion hues to the brick. On the red and brown side, there's minimal contrast and emphasis on harmony. The greener shades contrast while retaining a casual cast to the room. Darker earth tones make a room feel smaller. Conversely, they can make a big room cordial.

Reds

• Capitalizing on red is another option. Rather than emphasize earthy warmth, however, intense reds like burgundy enliven a space. While hotter reds like peony or magenta are best shunned, others, like maroon or rhubarb, strike a balance. These reds, strong hues but without electric overtones, bring an impact, match with red brick and yet won't overwhelm. Pastel reds like dusty rose or pink salmon are softer options.