Lighter and Brighter

Here is another design idea that appeared recently in one of Expert Advice submissions to the St. Pete Times!

Exposed brick can be beautiful in the right setting. But there are instances where a brick fireplace or a brick wall can seem somewhat heavy or forbidding.

This room had been completely refurbished, but when you stood back to look at it, all you could really see was a dark brick fireplace. It almost seemed like a "black hole" in the living room. By painting it the same color as the trim in the room, it suddenly fit into the room decor as a complement rather than a single focal point. It also brought appropriate attention to the built-in cabinets on either side.

Swallow your fear! Brick painting is a little tricky because of the texture, but a good, long-nap roller can help. All masonry should also be primed using a special primer in order for the paint to adhere and cover properly.

It might be just the thing to lift the spirits in the room!