At Scherr, we talk with a lot of Maryland homeowners who want their homes to look sharp without chasing trends. They want a structure that’s built to last, feels right for the neighborhood, and won’t turn into a maintenance headache. Brick home designs consistently deliver on all of that.
They’ve been around for centuries—and for good reason. Brick offers a strong visual impact, a solid structure, and long-term reliability. Whether you’re building new, adding on, or remodeling, brick works across a range of styles.
In this post, we’ll cover why brick home designs hold up over time, what styles are most popular in our region, and how Scherr helps homeowners make smart, lasting updates using brick as a foundation—literally and visually.
Why Brick Homes Stand the Test of Time
There’s a reason brick home designs have never gone out of fashion. It’s strong, consistent, and versatile. Whether you’re into modern design or more traditional builds, brick homes deliver a grounded, unmistakable look that lasts without constant upkeep.
Built to Hold Up
Brick doesn’t warp, fade, or rot. It holds up to Maryland’s wet winters, hot summers, and everything in between. Compared to wood or vinyl siding, it takes less work to keep it looking good.
That means fewer repairs, fewer repainting cycles, and less stress about what the weather might do to your house over the years.
Low Upkeep, Big Value
A well-built brick home doesn’t need frequent touch-ups. Power wash it every few years, and you’re mostly set. There’s no need to worry about termites, siding repairs, or paint peeling.
And because brick lasts, it adds value—not just visually, but practically. It can help your home appraise higher, sell faster, and require less over time.
Popular Brick Home Designs in Maryland
From classic to clean and modern, brick works with more styles than people often realize. Here in Maryland—especially in places like Baltimore City, Anne Arundel, Howard, and Harford Counties—we see a wide range of brick designs that still look good decades later.
Traditional Brick Homes
Traditional brick homes often feature symmetrical layouts, gable roofs, and covered porches. They’re timeless for a reason. Red brick is the classic choice, but we’ve seen homeowners mix it up with deeper browns or soft gray tones.
These homes are common across the region. And they’re often ideal for additions or remodels because the style adapts well—you can add rooms, patios, or porches without breaking the original design.
Modern Brick Homes
Modern brick homes mix clean lines with bold materials. Instead of red, you might see white or charcoal brick paired with metal, wood, or glass. Large windows, flat roofs, and open interiors create a contemporary look that still benefits from brick’s solid structure.
This style works especially well in suburban builds or urban infill projects where you want something current without sacrificing durability.
Ranch and Cottage Styles
Brick also shows up in cozy, low-profile designs. Ranch-style homes—typically one story with an open layout—often use brick for the main structure or for accents. Cottage-style homes might feature arched doorways, brick chimneys, or full facades for added warmth and charm.
In older neighborhoods, these designs feel familiar. And with a few modern updates, they can offer both character and comfort.
Key Details That Set Brick Home Designs Apart
The details of brick home design matter—especially when you’re adding to an existing structure or remodeling a key area like the kitchen or entryway. These elements are part of what gives brick homes their staying power.
Exposed Brick as a Design Feature
In remodels, exposed interior brick is one of the most requested design elements we get. It adds texture, depth, and a visual anchor to any room—especially kitchens and living spaces.
Whether it’s a full wall or a small accent, exposed brick works with both rustic and modern interiors. And because it doesn’t need finishing, it’s a smart move for homeowners who want fewer steps (and materials) in the remodeling process.
Brick Blends for Additions
Matching old brick with new can be tricky—but it’s not impossible. When we build additions on existing brick homes, we source blends that pair well with the original or use contrast intentionally. The goal is to make the new work with the old, not look like an afterthought.
We often advise clients on how to blend materials cleanly or highlight the differences in a way that still feels consistent across the home.
Why More Homeowners Are Choosing Brick Home Designs
There’s more to brick than just the look. It comes with built-in advantages that other materials can’t match—and they’re especially useful in a place like Maryland, where the seasons shift fast.
Energy Savings
Brick holds heat in the winter and helps keep it out in the summer. That means fewer swings in your energy use—and potentially lower utility bills. It’s not insulation by itself, but paired with modern building techniques, it adds another layer of comfort.
Fire Resistance
Brick doesn’t burn. Unlike vinyl siding or untreated wood, brick can slow the spread of flames and add protection in the event of a fire. For homeowners thinking about safety and long-term stability, this makes brick a smart investment.
Brick and Remodeling Projects
You don’t need to build a brand-new home to take advantage of brick. We often incorporate brick into kitchen remodels, additions, basements, and outdoor living spaces.
Kitchen Remodels with Brick
Whether it’s exposing an old chimney or building a new feature wall, brick can give your kitchen a grounded feel. We also use brick veneer in modern remodels where full masonry isn’t practical but the look still matters.
Brick in Outdoor Projects
Brick works well in patios, walkways, and retaining walls. It can help tie outdoor spaces into the rest of the home, especially if the structure is already brick. These projects don’t just look better—they’re more likely to hold up against Maryland’s wet seasons.
Why It’s Worth Considering
Brick home designs aren’t just about charm—they offer solid value, durability, and visual weight that’s hard to match. Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or planning a home addition, brick gives you options that look good and hold up.
At Scherr, we’ve worked on homes of all kinds, from historic rowhouses in Baltimore to newer builds in Howard and Harford Counties. We know how to work with brick designs, how to update it, and how to make it part of a smart remodel or addition.
If you’re ready to talk brick—inside, outside, or both—we’re ready to help. Get in touch with us today!
FAQ
Are brick homes more energy efficient than other types?
Yes, brick homes can help regulate indoor temperatures better than many other materials. Brick absorbs and slowly releases heat, which can reduce how often your HVAC system runs. That translates to more comfort and potential savings over time, especially in Maryland’s hot summers and chilly winters.
Can I add brick to an existing home?
Yes. We’ve helped many homeowners add brick as part of an addition, kitchen remodel, or exterior facelift. With the right planning and materials, brick can be added to both interior and exterior surfaces.
Is exposed brick hard to maintain?
Not really. As long as the brick and mortar are in good shape, it just needs an occasional cleaning. Interior exposed brick doesn’t face the same wear as exterior walls, so it holds up well.
Zach and Gavin Scherr, founders of Scherr, grew up immersed in the world of construction, inspired by family visits to job sites and the craftsmanship of their father and grandfather. With over 20 years of combined experience as general contractors, they bring a passion for quality workmanship and a deep commitment to exceptional customer service. Recognizing the challenges homeowners face in finding trusted contractors, Zach and Gavin established Scherr to bridge the gap between expert craftsmanship and a seamless client experience. Dedicated to building strong relationships and even stronger homes, they personally ensure every project meets their exacting standards, creating spaces where families can thrive.