Decent Exposure: Four Homes Featuring Exposed Brick

From chic urban oases in Manhattan to estates on the leafy thoroughfares of Houston, these homes prove that exposed brick is a time-honored way to infuse a home with history and character.

Chic Tribeca Penthouse

This sophisticated three-bedroom penthouse on a classic cobblestone street is the perfect backdrop for stylish living and entertaining. Its distinctive floating staircase leads to a terrace offering secluded space for alfresco lounging, cooking, and dining. The open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area boasts Boffi cabinets, top-tier appliances, built-in wine chillers, and oversized arched windows showcasing views of the city and the Hudson River—all accented by striking exposed brick, which also makes an appearance in the primary bedroom and bath.

Elegant Briargrove Manor

This inviting Houston home is French Norman in inspiration but thoroughly modern in design and amenities. While the interiors—a formal dining room, a study, an open great room and kitchen, and a luxurious primary suite—are sleek, bright, and elegant, the façade and an enviable loggia with an outdoor kitchen are accented with rugged, earthy exposed brick that is echoed in the unique archway that divides the formal and casual living spaces.

Iconic Manhattan Loft

This timeless loft in the Canal Greenwich Condominium building—formerly a Tetley Tea warehouse—offers a rare opportunity to live a life of effortless open ease and flexibility. Highlights include a sunny living room; large open kitchen with a dining area, a spacious pantry, and top-caliber appliances; three bedrooms; Lutron lighting; central heating and air conditioning; and a private outdoor area. Stylistic elements range from west-facing floor-to-ceiling windows and interior concrete columns to original exposed brick walls in public and private spaces.

Modern Houston Haven

On a tree-lined street in prestigious Tanglewood, this striking modern five-bedroom residence is steps from the Houston Country Club and offers an array of alluring spaces for living, dining, lounging, and entertaining. Stately brick plays a major role in the distinctive façade as well as the interiors—from a foyer with a sweeping staircase to the living room’s fireplace and a breakfast area enjoying views of the lush backyard and swimming pool.

This article was originally published in Sotheby’s International Realty’s Extraordinary Living Blog in January 2022.