Brick Fireplace Inspiration

A friend of mine and reader recently asked me this question:

So... We have a brick wood-burning fireplace. The brick is kind of an ugly color. Suggestions?

I asked her if she had thought about painting the fireplace; I love the statement that I white brick fireplace makes in a room, whether it is set against a different-colored wall or a white wall, creating a seamless look.  She told me that she is about to paint the walls gray, and that she has been painting all of the moldings white -- I told her that I think a white fireplace would be just the ticket for this spot.  This conversation prompted me to compile some brick fireplace inspiration, for my friend and for you!  

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What's your favorite way to showcase a brick fireplace?  Paint?  No paint?  Tell me!  :-)

love,

maria