Learn how to create a DIY brick chimney accent wall using Old Mill thin brick. This easy installation adds warmth and character to a kitchenette or kitchen design.
If you’ve been following our garage apartment renovation, you know we’ve been slowly transforming the space into a cozy, functional kitchenette. One of the most distinctive features we added was a brick chimney accent wall, which completely changed the room’s feel.
The best part? It was simple, affordable, and something you can easily recreate in your own home.
Why We Added a Brick Chimney in the Garage Kitchenette
When we first started planning the garage kitchenette, there was an old unused chimney already in the garage. It had clearly been connected to some sort of stove years ago, but it was no longer being used.
Instead of removing it, Chad and I saw it as an opportunity. We decided to turn it into a real brick chimney feature that would become the focal point of the kitchenette. When I design a space, I almost always start with one statement element and build the rest of the design around it. It makes the process much easier and keeps everything feeling cohesive.
For this space, the brick chimney was that starting point. Once we knew the chimney would be brick, it helped guide the rest of the design choices like:
- Navy blue cabinets
- Vintage style appliances
- Warm brass finishes
- Patterned wallpaper
Everything came together around that brick element.
The Brick We Used
For this project, we used Old Mill Brick in the color Riviera, which has the perfect warm red tone that gives that classic brick look. The color adds just the right amount of warmth and texture to the space.
You can find the brick here:
Old Mill Brick Riviera
https://shop.oldmillbuildingproducts.com/howwedo
You can also use code HOWWEDO for 10% off your order.
Why Thin Brick Is Perfect for DIY Projects
Thin brick is one of my favorite ways to add character and texture to a space without major construction.
Unlike traditional brick, thin brick:
- Is lightweight
- Installs directly on drywall or backer board
- Doesn’t require structural support
- Gives the same authentic look as real brick
It’s a great option for chimneys, accent walls, backsplashes, fireplaces, and kitchen features.
How We Installed the Brick Chimney
We’ve installed brick in several places throughout our home, so we followed the same simple process we’ve used before. Here is a before and after comparison!
Step 1: Prep the Surface
Make sure the surface is clean and ready for installation. The brick can be applied directly to the prepared surface.
Step 2: Apply the Brick with Mastic
Instead of traditional mortar for installation, we used mastic adhesive. This makes installation much easier because you simply spread the adhesive and press the bricks into place.
Step 3: Lay Out the Brick Pattern
We installed the bricks in a classic running bond pattern, which keeps the look timeless and natural. Taking a few minutes to dry-fit some bricks first helps keep spacing consistent.
Step 4: Grout the Brick
Once the brick was set, we filled the joints with gray mortar. The gray grout contrasts beautifully with the red brick and gives it that authentic masonry look. After grouting, we wiped down the bricks and let everything cure.
The Finished Look
The finished chimney turned out even better than I imagined. The warm red brick against the navy blue cabinets creates the perfect contrast and instantly adds character to the space.
It looks like it has always been part of the garage apartment, which is exactly the feeling we were going for.
And because we already had leftover brick from previous projects, this ended up being a very inexpensive update with a huge design impact.
Why Brick Is One of My Favorite Design Elements
Brick adds something that is hard to replicate with other materials.
It brings:
- Texture
- Warmth
- Architectural character
- A timeless feel
Even in a small space like a kitchenette, it can completely transform the design.
If you’re looking for a simple way to add character to your kitchen, fireplace, or accent wall, thin brick is one of the best DIY upgrades you can make.
Watch the Project Come Together
You can see the chimney project in action here:
Get the Brick
If you want to recreate this look, you can shop the brick here:
Old Mill Brick Riviera
https://shop.oldmillbuildingproducts.com/howwedo
Use code HOWWEDO for 10% off your order.
Final Thoughts
This brick chimney quickly became one of my favorite design features in our garage kitchenette. Sometimes the best design decisions start with working with what you already have. Instead of removing the old chimney, we turned it into something beautiful that anchors the entire space. And honestly, that’s one of my favorite parts of DIY design.
