Dreaming of the classic charm of a brick Colonial but also captivated by the rustic allure of a stone cottage? You don’t have to choose! Combining stone and brick veneer on your home’s exterior can create a truly stunning and unique curb appeal. This dynamic duo offers visual interest and a range of practical benefits. Stone veneer, for instance, provides exceptional durability and insulation, while brick boasts superior fire resistance and low maintenance needs. This harmonious blend of materials allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds, resulting in a home that is not only visually captivating but also built to last.
Inspiration from Architectural Styles
Once you’ve embraced the captivating combination of stone and brick veneer, exploring different architectural styles can provide valuable inspiration. Tudor homes often feature prominent stone accents, while Craftsman houses might showcase a blend of brick and stone on foundational elements or around entryways. French Country designs can beautifully juxtapose brick and stone with stucco, creating a warm and inviting aesthetic. These are just a few examples; the possibilities for creative combinations are endless.
Combining Stone and Brick Veneer: Exterior Design Considerations
Combining stone and brick veneer can create a stunning exterior, but getting the balance right requires careful consideration. Both materials bring distinct visual elements to the table, and when not thoughtfully paired, they can clash. By following these five key design principles, you can ensure your exterior showcases a harmonious blend of these materials, resulting in a truly show-stopping facade.
Color Contrast
To create a visually dynamic exterior, prioritize color contrast when pairing stone and brick veneer. Avoid matching colors directly, as this can make the materials appear unnatural. Instead, aim for a harmonious contrast. For example, a cool gray stone can pair beautifully with a warm brown brick with hints of gray. This allows each material to shine while keeping the overall look balanced. Don’t worry about making them match perfectly – embracing the natural color differences will add to the visual appeal of your home.
Keep Patterns Simple
Both brick and stone naturally exhibit color variations, and many options feature multiple shades. This diversity can create a visually rich exterior, but maintaining balance is essential. If you’re selecting a brick or stone with a pronounced pattern or multiple colors, consider pairing it with a simpler material to avoid an overly busy appearance. For example, a multi-colored stone veneer can be beautifully complemented by a more traditional brick, creating a visually engaging exterior without being overwhelming.
Design Focal Points
The strategic placement of stone and brick can create stunning focal points on your home’s facade. Architectural features like columns, gables, and arched entryways offer natural transition points to introduce a new material. For example, cover arched entryways with stone like this one from our 19th Century Stone series to create a striking visual contrast and enhance the architectural interest of your home’s entrance.
Coordinate Hardscape and Roof
Consider how your brick and stone choices will interact with your roof and hardscape elements to create a cohesive and visually appealing exterior. Hardscape refers to the non-living elements of your outdoor space, such as patios, walkways, driveways, and retaining walls. Since you’re already using two distinct materials on the home’s exterior, minimize adding additional materials for these features. Incorporate the same stone or brick used on the exterior into your hardscape design to create a sense of unity. Choose a roof color that complements the brick and stone rather than competing with them for attention. This creates a harmonious and balanced overall aesthetic.
Stone Size Selection
While brick sizes typically remain relatively consistent, stone options offer a wider range of sizes and shapes. This variety allows you to achieve different aesthetic effects. Consider using larger, irregularly shaped stones like chopped, mosaic, or fieldstone for a more traditional look. These options will add a touch of rustic charm to your home’s exterior. If your home has a more modern or contemporary style, opt for stones with sharper edges and cleaner lines, such as ledgestone or cut stone. These options will enhance the sleek and polished appearance of your home. Using larger stone elements in combination with brick can create a striking and visually impactful exterior.
Key Takeaways for a Successful Stone and Brick Combination
By incorporating these design tips and choosing the right combination of brick and stone, you can create a beautiful and enduring exterior that reflects your personal style. Visit our Brick Home Exterior Inspiration Pinterest board for real-world examples of stunning brick and stone exteriors featuring North Georgia Brick products! To see our selection of brick and stone, visit one of our North Georgia Brick showrooms in either Cartersville or Cumming; click here to get store hours and location.
I have a Morton metal building, and I think I want to use veneer stone on the knee wall. I will appreciate assistance.
Do Yo have a design center where I can see/touch Your products?
I would like more information on the house that has the Cottonwood brick. I would like the stone color as well as the mortar color. Also the stain color. Thank you.