While you dream up ways to change the color of the brick ... modern surround mantel, which slides over your fireplace and has a similar effect to the built-in wood coverings in the DIY above ...

This living room has a fireplace with a modern vibe. It features a firebox with beige brick arranged in a traditional pattern. The surround is made of striking black granite with white veining.

This living room makeover salvages the "cheap"-looking 1962 brick fireplace. Credit: Laura Bindloss Credit: Laura Bindloss ...