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Erin Napier, the HGTV host known for reviving old houses on Home Town, offered a fresh take on kitchen floors that ignores the usual hardwood-or-tile binary. In a recent episode she and her husband Ben replaced tired wood flooring with reclaimed brick pavers laid in a herringbone pattern. The result is a lived-in, cozy floor that feels custom and historic, and it’s an idea worth considering if you want a kitchen with personality.
Why reclaimed brick is gaining traction for kitchen floors
Reclaimed brick brings texture, color depth, and a story to a room. Unlike stamped or new materials, these bricks show age. That weathered surface helps spaces look authentic.
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Design-wise, brick plays well with both vintage and modern kitchens. It pairs naturally with wood cabinets, iron fixtures, and warm paint palettes. It also creates visual contrast when placed in a pattern like herringbone.
Home renovators choose reclaimed brick for these reasons:
- Unique surface variations that can’t be exactly duplicated.
- Durability that handles high traffic when installed properly.
- Eco-friendly reuse of materials, reducing demand for new production.
How Napier used old schoolhouse pavers to solve a design problem
The project began with existing hardwood that created an awkward visual channel across the room. Rather than patching, Napier switched to brick to better define the kitchen and dining areas. Laying the bricks in a herringbone pattern broke up the space and added movement.
Why the herringbone pattern matters
Herringbone introduces diagonal motion, which distracts from structural quirks. The small rectangular pavers emphasize texture without overwhelming the room.
Color and finish choices
Dark brown bricks bring warmth and make the kitchen feel intimate. A matte finish keeps the floor from feeling too formal. Subtle imperfections in reclaimed bricks are a selling point, not a flaw.
Where to source reclaimed brick and smart buying tips
Reclaimed bricks are available from many places, from local salvage yards to specialty companies that harvest materials from old buildings.
- Online marketplaces — check local listings for immediate finds and lower shipping costs.
- Salvage yards — great for seeing material first-hand and negotiating prices.
- Specialty reclamation firms — helpful if you need consistent color and volume.
When shopping, consider these factors:
- Quantity: Buy 10–20% extra to allow for cuts and breakage.
- Thickness and size: Ensure bricks match your subfloor and layout plan.
- Source history: Older bricks may have mortar or contaminants that need cleaning.
Practical pros and cons of a brick kitchen floor
Brick floors make a bold statement, but they come with trade-offs. Review the list below before committing.
- Pros: Extremely durable, slip-resistant when textured, and visually unique.
- Eco advantage: Reusing materials cuts waste and reduces carbon impact.
- Character: No two reclaimed floors look identical, giving homes a bespoke feel.
- Cons: Installation is labor-intensive and requires experienced contractors.
- Comfort: Brick can feel hard and cold underfoot without radiant heat or rugs.
- Moisture risk: If not sealed properly, brick may harbor mold or mildew in damp areas.
Installation and maintenance essentials for long-lasting results
Getting brick floors right means careful prep and ongoing care. Follow these guidelines:
- Prepare a level, stable substrate to avoid uneven tiles and tripping hazards.
- Use a qualified mason familiar with reclaimed materials and herringbone layouts.
- Seal the bricks after installation to reduce staining and moisture intrusion.
- Routine cleaning: sweep often and mop with pH-neutral cleaners.
- If mold appears, a vinegar scrub and resealing can address the issue.
Tip: Add area rugs in work zones to soften the floor and protect high-wear spots.
