Not a Pro.

Here is some inspiration:

Wash Park Residence · More Info

Bricks breathe but paints prevent bricks from exchanging moisture with the air. Any moisture trapped inside by paint still freezes and can cause damage to the brick and mortar.

Dyebrick is a company in England that makes a breathable dye for brick, and they ship to the US and Canada. Brick texture is not altered, but the dye chemically bonds with the brick as long as the brick is not sealed. No maintenance is required, whereas brick must be repainted regularly. Dyebrick goes on with a brush. The 10 colors for brick can be mixed, and there is a formulation for changing grout color. There is also a permanent lightener call LimeLike that contains no lime. There is a gallery of project photos and a multitude of testimonials. I was so impressed I wished my house was brick.

I would check out the brick staining first, then go from there.

I vote no on painting brick. You take a no maintenance product and turn it into a long term maintenance issue. Plus, your brick is integral to the style of the house. I think if you painted the garage door, windows and trim you could tie both the top and bottom of the house together. Does your budget allow for a new garage door? A craftsman style garage and front door would work, but I don't think you're ever going to get a farmhouse look.

If you're interested in seeing some virtual makeovers with different color schemes, doors, etc., take a look at my web site, Creative Visual Concepts.

The house looks Prairie Style to me. Google Prairie style door.

I see no need to paint either brick. You just need time to get used to it.