Help! My Family Room Brick Wall is Overwhelming—Here’s What I’m Thinking
Let’s talk about the brick wall. You know, that one big, looming wall in the family room that seems to stare back at you every time you walk in. The texture is bold, the color is intense, and honestly—it overwhelms me. I can’t quite figure out how to decorate around it, or even how I feel about it half the time. Some days I love its character… other days it feels like it’s bossing the room around.
So lately, I’ve been thinking about whitewashing it. I want to keep the charm and texture that brick brings, but I need to tone it down. Right now, it feels like it’s screaming for attention. A whitewash could soften the whole vibe, brighten the space, and make it easier to decorate without everything competing for attention.
Why Whitewashing Might Be the Way to Go
What I love about the idea of whitewashing (instead of painting) is that it allows the brick to breathe. It keeps that natural variation and depth, but mutes the color just enough to let the rest of the room shine. It feels less “makeover” and more “refined refresh.” Plus, it’s not a total commitment like solid paint—you can always adjust how much of the brick shows through by layering more or less wash.
It’s also a great DIY. Just some watered-down white paint, a sponge or brush, and a little patience. I’ve seen people even try a German Schmear for a heavier, rustic effect—another option I might play with in my head for a few weeks before jumping in. 😂
But Then What? How Do I Decorate It?
This is where I’ve been stuck: even if I whitewash it, then what? I need the wall to feel styled and intentional, not just toned down. So I’ve been dreaming up a few ideas:
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Anchor it with art or a large mirror. If it’s a flat brick wall (no fireplace), one oversized piece can create a focal point without cluttering it. Think something abstract, neutral, or natural—bonus points if it has texture to echo the brick.
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Add a floating mantle or wood ledge. Even without a fireplace, a wood mantle or shelf running across the wall can add warmth and function. Style it with greenery, framed art, candles—something simple, but collected.
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Incorporate soft elements. Brick is hard and textural, so balance it with cozy throws, plush rugs, and layered textiles in the rest of the room. You can’t change the brick’s texture, but you can change how it feels with what’s around it.
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Hang sconces or soft lighting. Warm, indirect light can help make the wall feel cozy instead of cold. Wall-mounted sconces with a vintage or modern flair add style and practicality.
At the end of the day, I don’t want to erase the brick—I just want to make peace with it. Whitewashing feels like a fresh start, and the right styling can turn this “overwhelming” wall into a total highlight. I’m getting excited… I think this could be a game-changer.
